Video Games Live: The Symphonic Celebration of Gaming Music
Video Games Live is a groundbreaking concert experience that fuses the energy of a rock show with the power of a full symphony orchestra to perform music from video games. Created by industry veteran Tommy Tallarico, this touring production has become a global phenomenon, selling out prestigious venues worldwide and introducing orchestral game music to millions since its debut in 2005.
Early career
The concept for Video Games Live was conceived by Tommy Tallarico, a prolific video game composer with hundreds of credits. Tallarico, recognizing the cultural significance and artistic merit of video game scores, aimed to create a high-energy, accessible live show that would celebrate the medium. The first official Video Games Live concert took place at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles on July 6, 2005, with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, setting the stage for a new genre of entertainment.
Breakthrough
Following its successful debut, Video Games Live embarked on extensive international tours, performing in over 40 countries across five continents. The show's breakthrough was not tied to a single album but to its relentless touring schedule and presence at major gaming conventions like E3 and Penny Arcade Expo. Its popularity led to a series of successful album releases, including the 2010 "Video Games Live: Level 2" which featured collaborations with game composers and orchestras from around the world.
Key tracks
One-Winged Angel (from Final Fantasy VII) — This intense, operatic piece by Nobuo Uematsu is a perennial show-stopper, demonstrating the dramatic depth possible in video game music.
Super Mario Bros. Medley — Transforming Koji Kondo's iconic 8-bit themes into a sweeping orchestral adventure, this segment highlights the show's ability to reimagine classic melodies.
The Legend of Zelda Suite — A majestic and emotional journey through Hyrule, this arrangement is a centerpiece that showcases the epic storytelling of game scores.
Halo Suite — Martin O'Donnell's haunting choral and orchestral themes for the blockbuster franchise are delivered with immense power, thrilling fans of the series.
Castlevania Rock — This segment exemplifies the show's rock concert energy, blending guitar solos with symphonic elements from the gothic horror series.
The production continuously evolves, adding music from new franchises like "God of War," "Kingdom Hearts," and "World of Warcraft." Collaborations with top-tier orchestras, such as the National Symphony Orchestra and the Sydney Symphony, along with choirs and featured rock musicians, ensure each performance is unique. Video Games Live also integrates interactive elements with the audience, including live video game competitions on giant screens synchronized with the orchestra.
Fans of the immersive, large-scale presentation of Video Games Live may also enjoy the work of similar artists featured on our site. The Video Game Orchestra offers a similarly ambitious blend of orchestral and contemporary styles. The 8 Bit Big Band reimagines game music through a vibrant jazz and big band lens. Power Glove delivers a synth-heavy, retro-futuristic take on classic themes. London Philharmonic Orchestra has recorded several acclaimed albums dedicated to video game music outside of the live show format.
The music of Video Games Live is a staple on many dedicated video game music radio stations and specialty symphonic rock programs available through our network. Its tracks are frequently featured on online orchestral rock streams and independent music radio stations that cater to gaming and geek culture enthusiasts, bringing the concert hall experience directly to listeners.
You can experience the powerful symphonic rock and iconic melodies of Video Games Live on radio stations featured right here on onairium.com. Discover their celebrated performances and explore the vast world of video game music through our curated selection of radio stations.
