the mommy avenger

Lightsabers illuminated the crosswalk on a cloudy, rainy evening, casting a foreboding glow across the pavement and windows as we approached the New Jersey Performing Arts Center.

Inside the warm and welcoming foyer, we collected our tickets and made our way to the main lobby. There, we enjoyed people-watching as a variety of cosplayers filled the space—ranging from Empire TIE fighter pilots to Tusken Raiders. Rey and Princess Leia mingled with the crowd, all gathered to experience Episode VII live, accompanied by the New Jersey Symphony.

Have you ever considered the unique sound of John Williams? His music carries a distinct signature—clear, simple leitmotifs that evolve into richly interwoven themes. These are often supported by bright brass and emphatic, timpani-driven percussion. Think Jurassic Park, Star Wars, Superman, Raiders of the Lost Ark, and, of course, the Olympic themes. Williams’ compositions echo the style of Golden Age film composers like Erich Wolfgang Korngold and Max Steiner, yet he modernizes the form with a broader orchestral palette and deeper thematic development. Even his more introspective scores—such as Harry Potter, Schindler’s List, and Jaws—feature a simple, memorable message that threads through the fabric of the film.

To do justice to a composer of this caliber, an orchestra must not only capture the clarity of the melodies but also deliver the dynamic energy and dramatic emphasis Williams demanded from ensembles like the London Symphony Orchestra and the Boston Pops.

The major moments that have to be perfect in any Star Wars performance are the main titles theme, the ponderous French Horn, and the clear but annoying dissonance in the dark side themes. 

The percussion this evening played to perfection. They carried the orchestra with the fever and intensity necessary to give weight to the score. 

A particular commendation should be given to this evenings celesta player who nailed their solo early on and set the tone of inquisitive discovery of Rey’s character arc.

Another standout performance this evening came from the snare drummer. Their attention to John Williams’ accents drove the urgency of the rebellions plight even more than the original sound track.

The major themes were crisp, memorable, and emphatically joyful. This orchestra made the dramatic scenes come alive. Unfortunately, the strings and woodwinds became a bit muddled during some of the more narrative portions of the plot. This was only noticeable to those paying close attention to the orchestra. Such slight aberrations did not dim the overall performance and experience of the audience. 

Rhythmically, the conductor precisely aligned the orchestra with the film. The brass section mesmerized the audience with sweeping crescendos and delicate, dark, foreboding decrescendos. These live performances can do much more than watching the film at home; They sweep concert goers to a galaxy far, far away in less than 12 parsecs.

This evening, the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra reminded us why they are considered the premier symphony in the state. This was their best performance we have seen to date.

There is still time to see one last performance of Star Wars: The Force Awakens in Concert with the New Jersey Symphony. Check out their website to purchase tickets and to see what other performances are in store this year.