GREENVILLE, S.C. (October 24, 2018) – Bob Jones University will present “Symphonic Hollywood: The Music of John Williams” featuring internationally acclaimed guest conductor Richard Kaufman and noted French horn player James Thatcher, Thursday, Oct. 25, at 8 p.m. in BJU’s Founder’s Memorial Amphitorium (FMA).
Kaufman, a Grammy Award winning musician and conductor, has played violin for movie soundtracks including Jaws. He is widely hailed as an expert in John Williams’ catalog of musical scores. Kaufman’s work as music coordinator for Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios over almost two decades led to two Emmy nominations and a lasting influence on the industry.
Thatcher, who primarily plays for film studios, has performed on over 3,500 motion picture soundtracks. He has collaborated with Williams on several recordings including Jurassic Park and The Patriot. Thatcher is a recipient of the Most Valuable Player Award from the National Association of Recording Arts and Sciences and “arguably the most often heard horn player in the world.”
In the week leading up to Symphonic Hollywood, Kaufman and Thatcher will give lectures, present masterclasses and lead interactive workshops for BJU students. “It’s been an incredible week of growth for our students. The one-on-one coaching, the workshops, the orchestra rehearsals, the discussions around faith, music, and vocation, and of course the incredible music-making with Mr. Kaufman and Mr. Thatcher—it’s all been such a rich experience for these young people as they develop their own artistry and vision,” said BJU Division of Music Chair Dr. Michael Moore.
The first part of the program will feature classical music pieces by Mozart, Rossini and Strauss. The second half will showcase movie soundtracks such as “The Theme from Jurassic Park” composed by Williams.
“The program draws from a wonderful collection of soundtracks ranging from the poignant to the epic, as well as other selections from the classical repertoire that have been adapted for the silver screen,” said Moore. “I’m so proud of our student musicians. They’ve tackled a huge program and have poured countless hours of practice into making this a night to remember for their fellow students and community.”
