Ep 7. Swan Song

Columbo season 3 episode 7, titled "Swan Song," follows Lieutenant Columbo as he investigates a murder that appears to be a simple hit-and-run. The victim is a legendary symphony conductor, Findlay Crawford, who was known for being irritable and difficult to work with. When Columbo arrives on the scene, he immediately notices that there are inconsistencies in the accident scene. He quickly finds evidence that suggests the conductor's death was not accidental, but rather a carefully orchestrated murder.

As Columbo digs deeper, he discovers that Crawford's murder was a complex scheme involving multiple suspects, each with their own motive for wanting him dead. There is the conductor's long-suffering wife, who was constantly subjected to his emotional abuse, as well as his assistant, who was overlooked for a promotion that Crawford promised him. Additionally, the conductor's protege had a deep-seated resentment towards Crawford and may have been envious of his fame and success. There is also a former love interest, the lead violinist in the orchestra, who still carries a spark for Crawford despite their tumultuous past.

With so many viable suspects, Columbo must carefully navigate his investigation to piece together the evidence and identify the true killer. As always, he employs his unique brand of quirky charm and guile to catch the culprits. The episode is a classic example of the detective genre, featuring a satisfying mix of mystery, intrigue, and suspense.

One of the standout aspects of this episode is its portrayal of the world of classical music. Through the character of Findlay Crawford and the various orchestral players, the viewer gets a glimpse into the cutthroat nature of the industry. The episode also touches on themes of ambition, artistic integrity, and the pressures of performing at the highest level.

Ultimately, "Swan Song" is a fast-paced and engaging episode that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats until the final reveal. It showcases Peter Falk's iconic portrayal of Columbo, as well as the strong writing and direction that made the series so beloved. Whether you're a fan of classic television or just a lover of detective dramas, this episode is sure to satisfy.