Episode 99 - Memoirs of a Geisha
John Williams wanted to be the composer for the film version of the novel "Memoirs of a Geisha" long before a script was written or a budget finalized. He realized the opportunity to infuse Japanese flavors into a Westernized score, and he enlisted the help of previous collaborators Yo-Yo Ma and Itzhak Perlman to play on the cello and violin, respectively. Host Jeff Commings talks about the themes in the score, and examines the scenes in which three Japanese instruments are highlighted throughout the film. Though the movie did not gain a Best Picture Oscar nomination as hoped, the film did garner some praise for Williams' score, and he was celebrated during awards season. Put on your best kimono and join us for this exciting episode!