Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s StoneTM
in Concert
concert during the 19th Krakow Film Music Festival
Someone who grew up with Harry Potter can never remain indifferent to any film from the series. Such a person knows the characters inside out. You can quote their lines by heart, but above all – instantly recognize the music. It was composed by John Williams himself. When you hear it, there is really no need to travel to Hogwarts to feel a little bit of magic in everyday life.
On Sunday afternoon, May 17, Tauron Arena Kraków hosted a screening of the first part of the young wizard’s adventures – Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. Was there something magical about it? Absolutely. The screening was accompanied by the Kraków Philharmonic Orchestra and Choir, allowing the music to resonate in its full power.
Memories That Never Fade
There are scenes that stay with people for years. Especially when they first experienced them as children, before their sensitivity had been shaped and restrained by the outside world. The opening of the film, when little Harry appears for the first time, still gives me chills. And the moment the film’s title illuminated the screen immediately made my heart beat faster with memories and emotion.
Fifty Points to… Gryffindor
It is also worth mentioning that the musicians were conducted by Benjamin Pope. He encouraged the audience to fully immerse themselves once again in the magical world of Hogwarts. He invited viewers to react openly whenever beloved heroes or villains appeared on screen. Only during the second half of the film did the conductor finally reveal which house he truly supported by putting on a Gryffindor tie.
The Magic Hidden in the Music
The live music added even greater power to the entire experience. There was one scene – the chess scene. It was the one that always frightened me as a child. It brought back vivid memories, intensified even further by the orchestra. Even though everyone knew how the story would end, the music heightened the tension so strongly. I found myself holding my breath and closing my eyes for a moment.
And that final suite… pure magic. It perfectly demonstrated the extraordinary power of music and the way sound can guide us through countless emotions. I am certain that more than a few people had tears in their eyes by the end. The applause and lights shining throughout the arena confirmed how powerful the connection between music, image, and emotion can truly be.