The Baton: A John Williams Musical Journey

I wish I could rate this podcast 10 stars. Jeff Commings is so knowledgeable and listening to him talk about John Williams musical career is just lovely. I’m a John Williams fan, and have been for years. It’s been so great listening and learning about John Williams’ development and career. I want to go see ALL of these movies again (or the first time) :) If you’re looking for your new favorite podcast (whether you play an instrument or not) this is the podcast for you! This is my favorite podcast and I listen every single day.

John Williams’ music for film is always a narrative journey in its own right, and this excellent podcast details the composer’s own development via detailing every single film project he’s ever scored. Host Jeff Commings is full of observations, biographical, historical and production data plus joy and appreciation of the maestro’s work, and always with an eye for a good anecdote. Hugely enjoyable.

Jeff has created the quintessential John Williams podcast. This podcast is detailed and thoughtful. Jeff takes us through all of John Williams musical writing as a young man in television and film. John Williams made an impression on many people all over the world throughout the years and if you thought you were a fan, you might learn a thing or two through this podcast. Jeff is a honest dealer with his openness about his musical training. And Jeff is honestly a little too hard on himself, he is more knowledgeable than he may like to admit. I learned so much more about John Williams than I thought I knew, and it’s all due to Jeff and this beautiful podcast.

This is such fun to listen to. My only critique is that there’s too much talking and not enough listening to and discussing actual John Williams tracks. For example for Star Wars (1977) 70% of the episode is spent getting to know some random guest host. We only get around to discussing the Star Wars main title. The rebel theme is touched on. I don’t think the force theme or Leia’s theme get any real discussion or focus. No mention of the imperial theme, final battle, or throne room march. :( Rather disappointing when this happens.