Voices and Video Games: A Unique Musical Journey

Audience members eagerly awaited the start of a unique concert at Auer Hall, where music from video games took center stage. After a brief wait outside, they entered to find a vibrant atmosphere filled with greetings and anticipation. The event, titled "Voices and Video Games," marked the first collaboration between the Music in Games Society and NOTUS, the contemporary vocal ensemble of the Jacobs School of Music. Directed by Dr. Dominick DiOrio, the concert featured eight compositions, including arrangements by students and faculty, showcasing the legitimacy and depth of video game music. Highlights included pieces from popular titles like "Risk of Rain 2," "Xenoblade Chronicles 2," and "Celeste," each offering a fresh perspective on familiar melodies.

The Fusion of Gaming and Classical Performance

This concert represented a groundbreaking fusion of two worlds: gaming and classical music. As the audience settled into their seats, the hall buzzed with excitement. Dr. Dominick DiOrio, who conducted six out of the eight pieces, emphasized the importance of recognizing video game music as a legitimate art form. He highlighted that this genre deserves the same scholarly attention and performance opportunities as traditional classical works. Sy Anderson, the producer and president of the Music in Games Society, shared insights into the extensive preparation and coordination required to bring this vision to life. Anderson not only arranged one of the pieces but also performed as a bass vocalist, demonstrating the collaborative spirit of the event.

The concert began with "Antarctic Oscillation" from "Risk of Rain 2," a piece that symbolizes the cyclical nature of the game's narrative. Michael Eaton, who arranged this composition, described it as a journey that ends where it begins, evoking a sense of triumph. The percussion elements introduced the cyclical theme, while DiOrio's dynamic conducting style brought the energy of the piece to life. Following this was an acapella choral performance of "Ever Come to an End" from "Xenoblade Chronicles 2," which received enthusiastic applause. Each piece showcased the versatility of video game music, blending emotional depth with technical precision.

Exploring Emotional Depth Through Game Soundtracks

The second half of the concert delved deeper into the emotional landscapes of various games. "The Song of the Sea" from "Rime," arranged by Jamey Guzman, explored themes of loss and grief. The haunting melody was conducted by DiOrio, who crouched down as if coaxing the sorrowful notes from the performers. This piece resonated deeply with the audience, illustrating the power of music to convey complex emotions. Erin C. Blake's arrangement of "Confronting Myself" from "Celeste" offered another poignant moment. The song depicted the protagonist's internal struggle, culminating in a reconciliation with her self-doubt. Blake explained how the choir's fragmented harmonies mirrored the character's emotional breakdown, leading to a powerful resolution.

The concert concluded with "Chakalaka" from "Cook, Serve, Delicious! 3?!", a lighthearted and upbeat tune arranged by Isaac Smith and Drake Eshleman. Eshleman introduced the piece, noting its playful lyrics and infectious rhythm. The performance left the audience in high spirits, culminating in a standing ovation for the performers, arrangers, and conductors. This event not only celebrated the rich musical heritage of video games but also paved the way for future collaborations between the Music in Games Society and NOTUS. The success of "Voices and Video Games" promises more exciting events to come, bridging the gap between gaming culture and classical music enthusiasts.