Randy Edelman
Lincoln Center, New York
6th June 2025
Veteran composer and performer Randy Edelman took the stage at Lincoln Center with the precision of a seasoned artist and the presence of someone who knows how to command a room without spectacle.
Known for scoring iconic films such as Dragonheart, Last Of The Mohicans, and My Cousin Vinny, Edelman brought his signature blend of cinematic themes, pop songwriting, and personal anecdotes to a packed house.
Backed only by his piano, Edelman’s stripped-down set highlighted the melodic strength of his compositions. The evening moved through a carefully chosen repertoire, including selections from his film scores and solo albums, as well as songs recorded by other artists like Barry Manilow (Weekend In New England) and The Carpenters (You).
While Edelman’s music often leans into grandeur when paired with orchestras or soundtracks, the live format revealed the structural simplicity and emotional clarity of his writing. His transitions between pieces were punctuated with dry humor and behind-the-scenes stories, giving insight into the craft without drifting into sentimentality.
The audience, a mix of longtime fans and curious newcomers, responded enthusiastically throughout the evening, with several standing ovations and audible appreciation for his works.
Overall, Edelman’s Lincoln Center appearance was a reminder of his versatility—not just as a film composer, but as a songwriter, performer, and storyteller. It was a well-paced, professionally delivered concert that underscored his lasting impact on multiple genres of music.
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All words by Eileen Shapiro. More of Eileen’s writing can be found in her author’s archive.
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