Fredonia's Video Game Orchestra Brings the Sounds of Nintendo to Life

Fredonia's Video Game Orchestra, a student-led ensemble, is set to captivate audiences with a concert celebrating the iconic music of Nintendo, the legendary video game company. Led by Aidan Carney, the orchestra will take the stage on October 15th, transporting listeners on a nostalgic symphonic journey through beloved game soundtracks.

Unlocking the Symphonic Potential of Video Game Music

Honoring the Pioneers of Video Game Music

Nintendo's rise to prominence in the 1980s marked a significant turning point in the world of video game music. With seminal titles like "Donkey Kong" and "Super Mario Bros.," the Japanese company revolutionized the way music was integrated into the gaming experience. The Video Game Orchestra at SUNY Fredonia recognizes the importance of this legacy, as Aidan Carney, the music and arts director and principal conductor, explains, "Nintendo was one of the first companies to include music in video games, so it's only right to pay homage to them."The upcoming concert, "The Music of Nintendo," promises to be a celebration of the company's musical contributions. Carney and his ensemble have received numerous requests from students to showcase the beloved soundtracks that have become ingrained in the collective consciousness of gamers worldwide. By bringing these compositions to life on the concert stage, the Video Game Orchestra aims to introduce a new audience to the symphonic potential of video game music.

Bridging the Gap Between Genres

The Video Game Orchestra at SUNY Fredonia is a unique ensemble that transcends traditional boundaries. Comprising both music majors and non-music majors from various academic backgrounds, the group represents the diverse interests and talents of the student body. As Carney notes, "You may have a clarinet Performance major right next to a Business major, but by the end of a rehearsal, everyone sounds awesome."This diversity of perspectives and musical abilities allows the ensemble to approach video game music with a fresh and innovative perspective. The concert program, which includes classics like "Super Mario," "The Legend of Zelda," and "Super Mario Galaxy: Symphonic Suite," will feature performances by vocal soloists and the Video Game Orchestra Chorus, further enhancing the symphonic experience.

Expanding the Reach of Symphonic Music

The Video Game Orchestra's mission extends beyond the concert hall. Molly Gibson, the assistant director of the orchestra, emphasizes the group's desire to "give others the opportunity to enjoy music at Fredonia." The ensemble recognizes that for many people, their introduction to symphonic music came through the immersive soundtracks of their favorite video games.By showcasing the depth and complexity of these compositions, the Video Game Orchestra aims to inspire a new generation of music enthusiasts. Gibson notes that the concert might be someone's "first experience with symphonic music, but maybe they'll come back to see some other ensembles." This outreach effort reflects the ensemble's commitment to expanding the impact of classical music and fostering a deeper appreciation for the art form.

A Nostalgic Symphonic Journey

The upcoming "The Music of Nintendo" concert promises to be a captivating experience for both seasoned music lovers and newcomers to the symphonic realm. The program is designed to take the audience on a "nostalgic symphonic journey" through the iconic soundtracks that have defined generations of gaming.From the opening notes of "Jump Up, Superstar!" to the grand finale of "Super Mario Galaxy: Symphonic Suite," the Video Game Orchestra will transport the audience to the vibrant and imaginative worlds of Nintendo's most beloved franchises. The concert's free admission for students and affordable $5 ticket price for the general public further underscores the ensemble's dedication to making classical music accessible to all.As the Video Game Orchestra takes the stage on October 15th, it will not only celebrate the musical legacy of Nintendo but also showcase the remarkable talent and dedication of the students who make up this unique ensemble. Through their performance, they aim to inspire a newfound appreciation for the power of video game music to captivate and enchant audiences of all ages.