On 26 June, we celebrate the day when the first Harry Potter book was published in 1997 — the moment a story about a boy, a hidden world and a letter from Hogwarts began its journey to millions of readers.
Years later, that world found another kind of magic on screen through the music of John Williams. With just a few notes, he gave Hogwarts its sound: mysterious, bright, slightly mischievous and instantly recognisable. His music did not simply accompany the story — it opened the door before the first spell was cast.
That is why this date feels so close to our programme The World of John Williams. Alongside other legendary film scores, the concert includes music from Harry Potter, bringing the wonder of Hogwarts into the concert hall through live sound.
On this anniversary, we celebrate the book that started the journey — and the composer who helped millions hear the magic for the first time.
