John Williams
Contemporary (1958–present)
1. Heroic
The Why
Williams uses "chromatic mediant" relationships — chords whose roots are a third apart (A#→Gm, D#→Cm). This creates more color than standard I–IV–V harmony while still feeling tonal. The F7→A# perfect cadence at the end provides the heroic resolution. Williams' genius is juxtaposing chromatic color with strong functional bass — the best of both worlds.
2. Whimsical
The Why
The i–iv–V7–I–IV–#ivdim–V7–i progression is pure Williams magic. The F#dim is a chromatic passing chord between F and G that creates the "magical" frisson — it's unexpected but perfectly logical. The celesta (bell-like keyboard) voicing makes the harmony sound like music box chimes. The consistent use of descending sequences (melody falls by step while harmony rises) creates a swirling, enchanted quality.
Characteristic Scales
Harmonic Style
Williams is the master of the "chromatic mediant" — chord progressions where roots move by a third (C→Am, D#→Cm). This creates rich, colorful harmony that still feels tonal and directed. His other hallmark is the leitmotif system — every character/idea has a specific harmonic signature that can be transformed (major→minor for villainous versions). His perfect cadences (V→I) are always earned — he builds expectation through chromatic tension before releasing into the tonic.