The Music of John Williams vs Hans Zimmer

02 May 2026

St George's Hall

Experience a breathtaking celebration of John Williams, Hans Zimmer and the greatest film scores ever written, brought to life by a chamber orchestra.

Step into a world where cinematic music history is brought to life. This year, The Great British Film Orchestra proudly embarks on a spectacular UK-wide tour, presenting The Music of John Williams vs Hans Zimmer – an orchestral duel between two titans whose scores have defined generations of storytelling.

For over half a century, John Williams has shaped the sound of wonder itself. His unforgettable themes for Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Superman, Jurassic Park and more have become modern mythology – fanfares that summon heroes, awaken galaxies and stir the imagination of millions. His music is symphonic grandeur at its purest, rooted in classical tradition yet alive with adventure, heart and timeless magic.

Opposing him stands Hans Zimmer, the architect of bold, thunderous, revolutionary sound. With groundbreaking scores for The Dark Knight, Gladiator, The Lion King, Inception and beyond, Zimmer reinvented the very language of film music. His fusion of orchestra, electronics, and relentless rhythm forged a new cinematic era – powerful, primal, unmistakably modern.