John Williams Will be Among The Last People To Be Knighted By Queen Elizabeth II
Image Source: Steinway
Of the late Queen Elizabeth II's many duties throughout her lifetime, her most prolific, and prestigious, both at home and abroad, included the giving of honours and medals. Knighthoods and damehoods are awarded for merit, outstanding achievement, or service and most often, are given to British nationals or members of the Commonwealth. However, temporary knighthoods have been granted to 27 Americans, amongst other foreign nationals. The late Queen, before her passing, approved one final list to add to this lifetime total, including the legendary Star Wars composer John Williams.
Born in New York City, John Williams may seem an odd choice for such an honour- after all, many of his film scores (Jurassic Park, E.T., Jaws) are considered iconic cultural Americana. However, within his 60-year career, the iconic composer had forged a close connection to the U.K. Not only in recording the soundtracks for Star Wars: A New Hope and Raiders of the Lost Ark in London, the nation's capital, but also in conducting The London Symphony Orchestra for the soundtrack of A New Hope. Williams' prolific legacy may not have needed the honour of being Queen Elizabeth's final knight, with 5 Academy Award wins, 52 nominations, 7 Baftas, and 25 Grammys, but it tops off a rich list of rewards for a stunning lifetime career of film composition.
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Source(s): CBR.com