John Towner Williams (born February 8, 1932 in New York City) is an American film composer and conductor. He wrote the signature themes for Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Jaws, E.T., Schindler's List, Jurassic Park and the first Harry Potter films. He holds five Oscars, 27 Grammys and 54 Academy Award nominations - the second-most in Oscar history. Decades of work with Steven Spielberg and George Lucas made him one of the most recognizable figures in film music. In September 2026, at 94, he surprised fans by conducting The Imperial March at the Hollywood Bowl.
On September 5, 2026 Williams made an unannounced appearance at the Hollywood Bowl and conducted The Imperial March from The Empire Strikes Back.
The Hollywood Bowl formally dedicated its stage as the John Williams Stage - the first artist so honored in the venue's history.
