Williams' biggest contribution though, is in the arranging of his film score selections, honed by years as head of the Boston Pops. It was conducted by Williams and took place on his home ground, with the Recording Arts Orchestra of Los Angeles exuding a string sheen that could match many a better-known ensemble. However, this recording is as much Williams' as Mutter's. The main impetus seems to have come from Mutter, who admired John Williams' film scores when she was young, was introduced to the composer by her ex-husband André Previn, and asked Williams to compose a piece for her. It is characteristic of this great player that when she did undertake a major crossover project, she made it something both intelligent and personal.
The vast catalog of violinist Anne-Sophie Mutter reveals few crossover items indeed, perhaps fewer than those of any other classical music superstar.
