Video game music, orchestral performances, and the sheer joy of a communal experience: how live concerts are helping us reconnect with gaming's good side

Orchestral performances of video game music have become increasingly popular, leading to multiple high-profile events in recent years. These concerts, which take place at prestigious venues like the Royal Festival Hall in London, attract diverse audiences that include both gamers and classical music enthusiasts. The organizers of the Game Music Festival have noted the immense success of these performances, selling out venues in a matter of hours.

One notable concert featured Baldur's Gate 3 composer Borislav Slavov alongside actor Andrew Wincott and singer Mariya Anastasova, who performed Raphael's Final Act as an encore. The audience's reaction was electric, with some members of the crowd even screaming in excitement during the performance.

The joy and vitality of these concerts are evident in the enthusiastic audience members, who often come dressed as characters from the games being performed. This blend of passion for gaming and appreciation for classical music creates a unique and celebratory atmosphere that is both refreshing and endearing. Witnessing the musicians' smiles and genuine enjoyment during these performances is truly heartwarming, especially in an industry where creativity and skill are often taken too seriously.

The resurgence of video game music in orchestral performances can be attributed to the growing popularity of video game soundtracks, which now account for a significant portion of a touring orchestra's annual output. Composers such as Stephen Barton and Gordy Haab have also noted the surge in online streams, social media content, and recognition from the broader entertainment industry, further solidifying the importance of video game music in the world of live performances.