Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Video Games Live at E3: Journey, Skyrim, Diablo 3, Earthworm Jim and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/video-games-live-at-e3-journey-skyrim-diablo-3-earthworm-jim/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/video-games-live-at-e3-journey-skyrim-diablo-3-earthworm-jim/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/video-games-live-at-e3-journey-skyrim-diablo-3-earthworm-jim/#comments During the week of E3, on June 6, Video Games Live will take over the Nokia Theater L.A. Live arena. Being E3 and all, and L.A. being one of the most frequently played venues for Tommy Tallarico's live video game concert, this year he wanted to add some special scores - like Austin Wintory's Journey score, conducted by Wintory himself.

It's just one of the more recent audio accompaniments added for the June 6 show. There are also select tunes from Skyrim, which will be handled by a secret guest conductor; composer Russell Bower will conduct some Diablo 3 tunes. Donkey Kong Country, Star Fox and even a Street Fighter segment - to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Capcom's fighter - are planned. Akira Yamaoka will also play guitar at some point.

Finally, there's Earthworm Jim to consider, a game that Tallarico himself worked on. Apparently folks have been asking him to add it to Video Games Live for quite some time now, which we're totally in favor of - as long as we get that thrash metal remix of "Use Your Head" we've been waiting our entire lives for.

JoystiqVideo Games Live at E3: Journey, Skyrim, Diablo 3, Earthworm Jim and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 May 2012 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsaustin-wintorydonkey-kong-countrydse3-2012journeykinectmicrosoftmobilemovenintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3psprussell-bowerskyrimsonytommy-tallaricovideo-games-livevitawiiwii-uxboxThu, 24 May 2012 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Video Games Live announces Canadian tour]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/video-games-live-announces-canadian-tour/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/video-games-live-announces-canadian-tour/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/video-games-live-announces-canadian-tour/#comments If Scott Pilgrim vs. the World taught us anything, it's that Canadians really dig video games - so much so that they are imbued with super powers. Seemingly aware of the Great White North's vengeful, all-powerful gaming fans, Video Games Live has announced several new stops in Canada. This October and November, the orchestral game music tour will visit Ontario, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Quebec, Alberta and British Columbia.

Ticket sales begin on Friday, April 27. The Video Games Live Twitch.tv channel will be streaming a press conference on April 25 at 9pm ET to announce specific pre-sale dates and take setlist requests from fans. Check out the VGL website for more information and the complete list of dates.

Continue reading Video Games Live announces Canadian tour

JoystiqVideo Games Live announces Canadian tour originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspsonyvideo-games-livevitawiixboxMon, 16 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video Games Live adding smaller venues in 2012, help bring it to your town]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/video-games-live-adding-smaller-venues-in-2012-help-bring-it-to/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/video-games-live-adding-smaller-venues-in-2012-help-bring-it-to/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/video-games-live-adding-smaller-venues-in-2012-help-bring-it-to/#comments Video Games Live will celebrate nearly a decade of success in 2012 by heading "off the grid" and hitting up smaller venues and towns across the globe.

"We continually receive thousands of emails a year from families and gamers who would love to experience our show, but find it hard to travel to major cities and have to deal with travel expenses, overnight stays, getting the kids out of school, etc. and we would like to try to accommodate as many people as possible to share in the experience," said Video Games Live creator and executive producer Tommy Tallarico.

That accommodation starts on the VGL site by signing up for the Video Games Live Mailing List (it's along the right column) and noting your city/state/country details. The top 10 cities with the most sign-ups will be announced next month and added to the 2012/2013 tour.

We contacted Tallarico to make sure there wasn't some regional restriction in the fine print on where the show would travel. He replied, "It's for the entire world!"

Also, audience members in those 10 locations will receive a free poster, program and Video Games Live album. So, get signed up with your Hotmail account you haven't used since 2007 and get VGL to your town! Also, bonus points to the tiny village in Venezuela that gets the orchestra to show up.

Continue reading Video Games Live adding smaller venues in 2012, help bring it to your town

JoystiqVideo Games Live adding smaller venues in 2012, help bring it to your town originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftnintendopcplaystationps3video-games-livewiixboxTue, 20 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video Games Live announces packed Los Angeles show]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/29/video-games-live-announces-packed-los-angeles-show/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/29/video-games-live-announces-packed-los-angeles-show/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/29/video-games-live-announces-packed-los-angeles-show/#comments You're probably getting excited about E3 (and who can blame you?) but it's a bit more difficult for us who've come to view the yearly event as "The One Week We Actually Have to Work Pretty Hard." But whether you're a jaded misanthrope like our staffers or a rational human who hasn't had their heart replaced with a heart-sized stone, there's a new can't-miss event at the conference: The 200th Video Games Live show, set for 8 p.m. Wednesday, June 8 at the Nokia Theater.

The slate of guests and material is large enough that you'll have to read the full list on the VGL site, but just for starters, the all-new show includes the live premiere of music from Red Dead Redemption, World of Warcraft: Cataclysm and Resident Evil 5. Also look for performances of Portal hit "Still Alive" and Chrono Trigger and Chrono Cross themes, with composer Yasunori Mitsuda in attendance.

What is this feeling in our chest rocks? Is it ... excitement?

JoystiqVideo Games Live announces packed Los Angeles show originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 29 May 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>concertse3-2011musictommy-tallaricovideo-games-liveSun, 29 May 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Video Games Live debuting theme from Might and Magic Heroes 6]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/15/video-games-live-debuting-theme-from-might-and-magic-heroes-6/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/15/video-games-live-debuting-theme-from-might-and-magic-heroes-6/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/15/video-games-live-debuting-theme-from-might-and-magic-heroes-6/#comments Though Black Hole's upcoming strategy title Might and Magic Heroes 6 won't see the light of day until next March, a bit of its soundtrack will go public later this week: Video Games Live will play a selection from the game's score during its December 17 show in Paris, France.

Continue reading Video Games Live debuting theme from Might and Magic Heroes 6

JoystiqVideo Games Live debuting theme from Might and Magic Heroes 6 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Dec 2010 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Black-Hole-Gamesmight-and-magicMight-and-Magic-Heroes-6musicubisoftvideo-games-liveWed, 15 Dec 2010 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video Games Live announces 42 North American shows]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/04/video-games-live-announces-42-north-american-shows/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/04/video-games-live-announces-42-north-american-shows/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/04/video-games-live-announces-42-north-american-shows/#comments If you're a resident of the great continent of North America, you don't have much of a reason for not seeing a Video Games Live performance during the next few months. The orchestra recently announced 42 shows across America, Mexico and Canada, covering both coasts -- and quite a few fly-over states as well. (H-town WV, represent!)

Check out the full list of upcoming concerts after the jump!

Update: The Kansas City, Mo. show has been canceled. [Thanks for the heads-up Courtney!]

Continue reading Video Games Live announces 42 North American shows

JoystiqVideo Games Live announces 42 North American shows originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Nov 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>concertmusicorchestravideo-games-liveThu, 04 Nov 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video Games Live: Level 2 hitting Blu-ray and DVD October 19]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/07/video-games-live-level-2-hitting-blu-ray-and-dvd-october-19/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/07/video-games-live-level-2-hitting-blu-ray-and-dvd-october-19/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/07/video-games-live-level-2-hitting-blu-ray-and-dvd-october-19/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you're looking for a new addition for the rack you keep on your entertainment center which specifically houses your concert DVDs, we've got a great suggestion for a box that'll look great between "Rush in Rio" and Dixie Chicks' "Top of the World Tour: Live." We're speaking, of course, of "Level 2," the upcoming concert video from Tommy Tallarico and his band of gaming troubadours, Video Games Live.

"Level 2," which will be released on DVD and Blu-ray on October 19, features a 100-minute concert performance and hours of bonus interviews and behind-the-scenes featurettes. A CD will be released on the same day, featuring 16 of the group's video game-inspired suites. For a full tracklist, as well as information about pre-orders, check out Video Games Live's official site, or check out the trailer after the jump for a sneak peek at the performances therein.

Continue reading Video Games Live: Level 2 hitting Blu-ray and DVD October 19

JoystiqVideo Games Live: Level 2 hitting Blu-ray and DVD October 19 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Oct 2010 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu-rayconcertdvdmusicorchestratommy-tallaricovideo-games-liveThu, 07 Oct 2010 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PBS to air 90-minute Video Games Live performance]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/06/pbs-to-air-90-minute-video-games-live-performance/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/06/pbs-to-air-90-minute-video-games-live-performance/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/06/pbs-to-air-90-minute-video-games-live-performance/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you've yet to experience the profound orchestral magic of the Tommy Tallarico-fronted musical outfit Video Games Live, you'll soon have the opportunity to do so from the safety and comfort of your own home. The group recently announced it will perform a 90-minute special for PBS, which will debut July 31, and then air on various PBS affiliates across the country throughout August. We suggest contacting your local affiliate to find out if the special will come to your neck of the woods.

If you're planning on tuning in, you can check out the trailer posted after the jump to see what you're in for, or read this press release to see what games the orchestra will be sampling during its performance. We don't see Gitaroo Man on said list, but we're hoping that's just an unfortunate omission on behalf of the copywriter.

Continue reading PBS to air 90-minute Video Games Live performance

JoystiqPBS to air 90-minute Video Games Live performance originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 06 Jun 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>musicPBSTelevisiontommy-tallaricoVideo-Games-LiveSun, 06 Jun 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Video Games Live holding another performance at E3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/19/video-games-live-holding-another-performance-at-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/19/video-games-live-holding-another-performance-at-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/19/video-games-live-holding-another-performance-at-e3/#comments Once again, the ludological troubadours of Video Games Live will take time out of their busy schedules to visit their orchestral brand of rocking upon attendees of the Electronic Entertainment Expo on Thursday, June 17. Tickets are now available for purchase, with prices ranging between $24.99 and $74.99 (for the nosebleeds and the court-sides, respectively.)

You don't have to be an E3 attendee to gain access to the show -- but if you're in L.A. that week, why wouldn't you go check out all those piping hot new games? Come on, now. You're being ridiculous.

[Via BigDownload]

JoystiqVideo Games Live holding another performance at E3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Apr 2010 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>concerte3-2010eventmusicorchestraticketstommy-tallaricovideo-games-liveMon, 19 Apr 2010 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Video Games Live trying New Orleans concert for PBS again]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/24/video-games-live-trying-new-orleans-concert-for-pbs-again/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/24/video-games-live-trying-new-orleans-concert-for-pbs-again/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/24/video-games-live-trying-new-orleans-concert-for-pbs-again/#comments Video Games Live plans to record a show on April 1 (no joke) in New Orleans to be aired on PBS stations in July. As this is going on the tee-vees, special guests and spectacle are planned. Ralph Baer will play Pong against an audience member on stage, with the symphony providing the sound. Guests for the post-show "meet and greet" include Tommy Tallarico (Earthworm Jim/Advent Rising), Jack Wall (Myst/Mass Effect), Marty O'Donnell (Halo), Russell Brower (Blizzard), Gerard Marino (God of War), Christopher Tin (Civilization IV) and more.

VGL Executive Producer Tommy Tallarico tells Joystiq that the previous attempt to record the show in February fell through due to licensing and approval issues. Tickets for the show are available from Ticketmaster. Hopefully, the second attempt goes smoother.

JoystiqVideo Games Live trying New Orleans concert for PBS again originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Mar 2010 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>christopher-tingerard-marinojack-wallmarty-odonnellpbsralph-baerrussell-browertommy-tallaricovideo-games-liveWed, 24 Mar 2010 19:25:00 EST<![CDATA[PBS recording, airing Video Games Live concert in 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/17/pbs-recording-airing-video-games-live-concert-in-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/17/pbs-recording-airing-video-games-live-concert-in-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/17/pbs-recording-airing-video-games-live-concert-in-2010/#comments The always enjoyable Video Games Live concert series will have a performance taped and shown on PBS stations next year. The recorded performance will occur February 5, 2010, at the Lakefront Arena in New Orleans. Tickets, which start at $15, go on sale Friday, December 18 at 10AM CST (check Ticketmaster or call 800-745-3000).

We contacted VGL Executive Producer Tommy Tallarico to find out about special guests for this televised concert. He told us that the performance is still in the early planning stages and wishes he had more to share. Tallarico explained, "The only thing I could really say for sure right now is that we are not only going to have special guests from the gaming world -- game composers and game designers from around the world -- we're also going to have special musical guests and celebrities not from the gaming world, but who are very well known and fantastic performers."

For the rest of us not near Mardi Gras land, the concert will begin airing in June on your local PBS station and a DVD/Blu-ray version will be distributed worldwide. All of this sounds like a very clever way for PBS to attract a younger demographic. Also, if you attend the taped concert, make sure to dress business casual. Greasy gamers in T-shirts and jeans don't make for good crowd shots.

JoystiqPBS recording, airing Video Games Live concert in 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Dec 2009 19:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu-raydvdmusicpbstommy-tallaricovideo-games-liveThu, 17 Dec 2009 19:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Prince of Persia creator to keynote GDC China (likely in English)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/12/prince-of-persia-creator-to-keynote-gdc-china-likely-in-english/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/12/prince-of-persia-creator-to-keynote-gdc-china-likely-in-english/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/12/prince-of-persia-creator-to-keynote-gdc-china-likely-in-english/#comments
It seems that GDC China attendees have more than just a Video Games Live performance to look forward to, as it was announced today that Prince of Persia creator Jordan Mechner will be keynoting the event. According to a release issued today, the acclaimed designer will be speaking on "the success of the Prince of Persia series, as well as his own success as a game designer, programmer, and finally, director and screenwriter." You read that right, folks -- the man most recently penned Jerry Bruckheimer's film adaptation of the PoP series, among other screenplays.

Unfortunately, those attending GDC China won't be getting the traditional, mandatory shock treatment at the show, as that has been recently banned. For shame, China! Hopefully Mechner will be enough.

JoystiqPrince of Persia creator to keynote GDC China (likely in English) originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 12 Sep 2009 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesschinagdcgdc-chinajerry-bruckheimerjordan-mechnerkaratekakeynoteprince-of-persiaprince-of-persia-movievideo-games-liveSat, 12 Sep 2009 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video Games Live heading to GDC China]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/19/video-games-live-heading-to-gdc-china/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/19/video-games-live-heading-to-gdc-china/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/19/video-games-live-heading-to-gdc-china/#comments
We know, we know -- living in Shanghai, China can sometimes make it hard to see your favorite video game music orchestra live in action. Don't fret, orchestral video game music enthusiast! Video Games Live! has just announced its intentions to perform at the Shanghai Hongkou Soccer Stadium, in tandem with GDC China, on October 13.

Better yet, those of you holding a VIP pass to the show (and those of you who buy one before September 19), will receive complimentary tickets to the Video Games Live! performance that wraps up China's GDC. Oh, and just in case you were wondering, the orchestra's name has an exclamation point in it. Also, we like to shout.

JoystiqVideo Games Live heading to GDC China originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Aug 2009 04:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chinachina-gdcgdcgdc-chinashanghaishanghai-hongkou-soccer-stadiumvideo-games-liveWed, 19 Aug 2009 04:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Video Games Live to have several special shows in July]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/03/video-games-live-to-have-several-special-shows-in-july/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/03/video-games-live-to-have-several-special-shows-in-july/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/03/video-games-live-to-have-several-special-shows-in-july/#comments
Video Games Live continues touring with a few special shows during the month of July. On July 10, the National Symphony Orchestra (which did two sold-out shows at the Kennedy Center in DC) will perform at the WolfTrap Feline Center in Virginia. Sid Meier, Civilization IV vocalist Ron Ragin and game composer Grant Kirkhope (Donkey Kong Country, GoldenEye, Banjo-Kazooie, Viva Pinata) will all be in attendance.

For Texans, Halo composer Mike Salvatori will make a "special guest appearance" at the Ft. Worth show on July 14. A few days later, The Houston Symphony will perform the show in its namesake city for two shows on July 18, in collaboration with MusiCON 09. The special afternoon show is entitled "Blizzard Live!" and will showcase songs from the Warcraft, Starcraft and Diablo games. Five Blizzard composers will attend and participate in a Q&A panel.

There will also be a performance at the San Diego Comic-Con on July 23 at the outdoor Embarcadero Marina Park, which will include synchronized fireworks. Tickets are available at the Video Games Live site. Check out the full list of July tour stops after the break.

Continue reading Video Games Live to have several special shows in July

JoystiqVideo Games Live to have several special shows in July originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 21:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>culturetommy-tallaricovideo-games-liveFri, 03 Jul 2009 21:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Mega Man 2 and 3 music premiering at Video Games Live tomorrow, June 4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/mega-man-2-and-3-music-premiering-at-video-games-live-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/mega-man-2-and-3-music-premiering-at-video-games-live-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/mega-man-2-and-3-music-premiering-at-video-games-live-tomorrow/#comments
If you live in the Los Angeles area, tomorrow is probably a good day to attend Video Games Live, which still has tickets available. The show will premiere music from Mega Man 2 and 3 (yeah, we can't believe that's never been done either) and there will be "several special guests." The event will take place at The Greek Theater and there are likely to be many industry folks in the audience.

JoystiqMega Man 2 and 3 music premiering at Video Games Live tomorrow, June 4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Jun 2009 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>culturee3-2009tommy-tallaricovideo-games-liveWed, 03 Jun 2009 12:20:00 EST<![CDATA[You're going to love the Video Game Orchestra]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/30/youre-going-to-love-the-video-game-orchestra/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/30/youre-going-to-love-the-video-game-orchestra/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/30/youre-going-to-love-the-video-game-orchestra/#comments
You're all familiar with Video Games Live by this point, and with good reason, it's a great organization. But we want to make sure you don't miss out on one of our new favorites in the field: the Video Game Orchestra, a collection of volunteers just playing for the love of the music.

We've got video of the Boston-based group's take on Metal Gear Solid 3 after the break, but we're betting you're going to want to see all of the clips on its YouTube channel right here.

Continue reading You're going to love the Video Game Orchestra

JoystiqYou're going to love the Video Game Orchestra originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 30 May 2009 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>vgovideo-game-orchestravideo-games-liveSat, 30 May 2009 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video Games Live performing during E3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/13/video-games-live-performing-during-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/13/video-games-live-performing-during-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/13/video-games-live-performing-during-e3/#comments
Offering a welcome distraction from the lights and sounds of E3 this June will be the ... lights and sounds of Video Games Live. Not to be confused with the annual event's newly re-embraced discord, the musical performance aims to strike a more harmonious chord with attendees when the show takes the stage at LA's Greek Theater on June 4.

Serving as E3's closing ceremony, the concert will include selections from such games as Chrono Trigger, Mega Man and Final Fantasy, as well as possible attendance by some "very special guests." Tickets are available through pre-sale for between $25 and $70. And for those unwilling to make the trek to E3, or for avid listeners with an unhealthy appetite for video game tuneage, a second performance alongside July's Comic Con in San Diego is also planned, promising "different material and different special guests."

JoystiqVideo Games Live performing during E3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Apr 2009 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chrono-triggere3e3-2009final-fantasymega-manvideo-games-liveMon, 13 Apr 2009 09:15:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC talks to composer about the challenges of writing game music]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/11/bbc-talks-to-composer-about-the-challenges-of-writing-game-music/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/11/bbc-talks-to-composer-about-the-challenges-of-writing-game-music/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/11/bbc-talks-to-composer-about-the-challenges-of-writing-game-music/#comments
James Hannigan, music composer for the Harry Potter games and Red Alert 3, spoke with the BBC about the challenges of writing game music. He explains that games often require him to write music for scenes he hasn't seen -- the complete opposite of what happens in film and television.

An interesting observation involves the differences between composing for third- and first-person games. Hannigan points out that more prominent music could "conflict" with the player's sense of immersion in a first-person game, often prompting more understated approaches compared to third-person adventures. He also appreciates gaming's influence on getting younger fans hooked on classical music, which becomes "acceptable and reasonably fashionable to people because it comes from their favorite games."

With shows like Video Games Live getting more attention, it's always interesting to gain some insight into an aspect of games that too often goes uncelebrated.

JoystiqBBC talks to composer about the challenges of writing game music originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Mar 2009 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>compositionjames-hanniganmusicvideo-games-liveWed, 11 Mar 2009 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Video Games Live premiering 'Halo 3: ODST' tune in Seattle this weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/19/video-games-live-premiering-halo-3-odst-tune-in-seattle-this/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/19/video-games-live-premiering-halo-3-odst-tune-in-seattle-this/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/19/video-games-live-premiering-halo-3-odst-tune-in-seattle-this/#commentsFiled under:


Video Games Live has announced it will debut music from Halo 3: ODST at its Seattle show this Saturday, January 24. The symphonic treatment will be given to the music heard in the ODST trailer, along with standards to the experience. Halo composers Marty O'Donnell and Michael Salvatori, plus members of Bungie, will attend the concert and take part in a post-show meet and greet.

Tickets for the concert are still available. Oh yeah, Gabe and Tycho from Penny Arcade will also turn up at the post-show festivities. So, brush off your tuxes for a night at the symphony.*

*You don't really have to wear a tux ... just have some class and don't show up in shorts and a J!NX shirt.**

**We love J!NX.

JoystiqVideo Games Live premiering 'Halo 3: ODST' tune in Seattle this weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Jan 2009 22:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bungiehalo-3-odstpenny-arcadevideo-games-liveMon, 19 Jan 2009 22:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo 3: ODST soundtrack to debut at Video Games Live event]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/19/halo-3-odst-soundtrack-to-debut-at-video-games-live-event/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/19/halo-3-odst-soundtrack-to-debut-at-video-games-live-event/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/19/halo-3-odst-soundtrack-to-debut-at-video-games-live-event/#commentsFiled under: ,

With a new Bungie developed game in the works comes the dynamic musical duo of O'Donnell & Salvatori. On January 24, Bungie will debut the soundtrack for Halo 3: ODST at a Video Games Live concert in Seattle. Special guests at the event will include the famed Halo team of scorer Marty O'Donnell and (the elusive) composer Michael Salvatori, among others.

"I've always debuted my music with Video Games Live and it's an honor to be involved with such a highly successful production. It's a fantastic show and a great and unique way to connect our music with an audience," O'Donnell said of the popular Video Games Live show. Video game music fans in the Washington area can purchase tickets for this Saturday's show from Ticketmaster.

JoystiqHalo 3: ODST soundtrack to debut at Video Games Live event originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Jan 2009 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-IndustriesbungieBungie-StudiosFPShalohalo-3-odstMicrosoft-Game-Studiosvideo-games-livex3f-twitterMon, 19 Jan 2009 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Joyswag: Video Games Live album]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/joyswag-video-games-live-album/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/joyswag-video-games-live-album/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/joyswag-video-games-live-album/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Update: Entry period has ended.

If you can't make it to any of the upcoming Video Games Live performances, we'll bring the show to you. Joystiq is giving away five free copies of the recent Video Games Live: Volume One, delivered right to your door. Just leave a comment below (after you've read our interview with co-creator Tommy Tallarico), telling us what piece of gaming music you'd love to hear at a VGL concert, and we'll randomly select five winners to receive a copy. To enter this giveaway:
  • Leave a comment telling us your favorite piece of game music that you'd like to hear played live.
  • You must be 18 years or older and a resident of the US or Canada (excluding Quebec).
  • Limit 1 entry per person per calendar day (comment more than once and we'll force you to play the Atari 2600 version of E.T. forever, Clockwork Orange-style).
  • This entry period ends at 11:00pm ET on Friday, October 10th. We'll randomly select 5 winners at that time to each receive one copy of the EMI Classics album Video Games Live: Volume One (valued at $15). Please check your e-mail!
  • For a list of complete rules, click here.

JoystiqJoyswag: Video Games Live album originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Oct 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>joyswagtommy-tallaricoVGLVideo-Games-LiveThu, 02 Oct 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq interview: Tommy Tallarico of Video Games Live]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/joystiq-interview-tommy-tallarico-of-video-games-live-free-sc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/joystiq-interview-tommy-tallarico-of-video-games-live-free-sc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/joystiq-interview-tommy-tallarico-of-video-games-live-free-sc/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Tommy Tallarico has been working in the video game industry since 1991, and has worked on the audio and music for over 250 games, which sounds exhausting enough. He also ocassionally co-hosts Reviews on the Run (formerly Judgement Day on G4), he's a co-founder of the Game Audio Network Guild, serves on the advisory board for the Game Developers Conference, and somewhere amidst that schedule he found time to co-create (with game composer Jack Wall) the live-action game music experience that is Video Games Live.

Video Games Live has been bringing the rocking tunes of games to audiences around the world for three years now. Whereas Jack Wall provides the baton-waving, classy dress portion of the show, Tallarico is the tennis-shoe wearing, Spider-Man guitar-wielding rock element. Check out our full interview with Tommy after the break, and check the VGL schedule to see if there's a show near you -- because everyone should hear the Mario Bros. theme played live at least once. If you can't make it to one, enter our Joyswag Video Games Live giveaway.

Continue reading Joystiq interview: Tommy Tallarico of Video Games Live

JoystiqJoystiq interview: Tommy Tallarico of Video Games Live originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Oct 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>concertmusictommy-tallaricoVGLVideo-Games-LiveThu, 02 Oct 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video Games Live announces 50 shows for world tour]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/video-games-live-announces-50-shows-for-world-tour/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/video-games-live-announces-50-shows-for-world-tour/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/video-games-live-announces-50-shows-for-world-tour/#commentsFiled under:

You wouldn't castigate us for saying that many classic video games are loved and remembered not just for their gameplay and characters, but their memorable music. Why, just think of The Legend of Zelda's dum dum, da da da dadum, da da da da daaa da da da da da dadum! Or Sonic the Hedgehog's dada da da dee dum dum, da dada da dum dee dum dum. And who could forget Mega Man's dada dada dadee dum, dadum dadum dum daaa?

If you're a video gamer who appreciates everything from 8-bit beeps and boops to rousing orchestral scores, we encourage you to drag those big ears of yours to a Video Games Live concert. Created in 2002 by composers Tommy Tallarico and Jack Wall, Video Games Live honors a wide range of games in -- thanks to its 50-show strong world tour -- a wide range of American and international venues. See a complete list of planned concert locales (including France, China, Taiwan, Scotland and Portugal) and dates after the break.

Continue reading Video Games Live announces 50 shows for world tour

JoystiqVideo Games Live announces 50 shows for world tour originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Jun 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ConcertJack-WallMusicTommy-TallaricoVideo-Games-LiveVideoGamesLiveWed, 04 Jun 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC08: Meet us at Video Games Live, get swag]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/22/gdc08-meet-us-at-video-games-live-get-swag/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/22/gdc08-meet-us-at-video-games-live-get-swag/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/22/gdc08-meet-us-at-video-games-live-get-swag/#commentsFiled under: ,


We've got a pile o' swag from GDC and, like always, we're looking to give it away to you, dear readers. There are some caveats because we're short on time: notably that we're not bringing it home. Some of Team Joystiq are going to Video Games Live tonight (look for the socially awkward blogger type) and we'll be bringing all the swag you see up there and more. Want it, just stop by and say hi and we'll share. Easy, right? Anyone here planning on going?

Update: We've run into some of you already, but you can find us huddled in the left rear corner of the entrance area -- just take a left as you walk in through the door!

JoystiqGDC08: Meet us at Video Games Live, get swag originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Feb 2008 21:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>GDCGDC08Video-Games-LiveFri, 22 Feb 2008 21:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Video Games Live announces 40 shows across the globe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/17/video-games-live-announces-40-shows-across-the-globe/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/17/video-games-live-announces-40-shows-across-the-globe/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/17/video-games-live-announces-40-shows-across-the-globe/#commentsFiled under:


Video Games Live has announced approximately 40 shows to take place across the globe over the next year. Full details aren't available on some locations, but there will be special concerts at GDC, Comic-Con, Leipzig and a bullring in Mexico (full list of locations after the break).

There's really nothing more to say about VGL other than you should go and see hear it. The quality of the show is absolutely worth the price of admission and there's nothing quite like getting a chill from hearing your favorite piece of game music played by a full orchestra. If going into public isn't your thing, there's always the CD.

[Via Press Release]

Continue reading Video Games Live announces 40 shows across the globe

JoystiqVideo Games Live announces 40 shows across the globe originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Jan 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>tallaricotommy-tallaricotommytallaricovglvideo-games-livevideogamesliveThu, 17 Jan 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video Games Live to make TV debut on Spike VGAs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/30/video-games-live-to-make-tv-debut-on-spike-vgas/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/30/video-games-live-to-make-tv-debut-on-spike-vgas/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/30/video-games-live-to-make-tv-debut-on-spike-vgas/#commentsFiled under:

Video Games Live, composer Tommy Tallarico's gaming-centric orchestra concert event, is making its national television debut next Sunday, December 9, on Spike TV's Video Game Awards. The performance will be recorded along with the awards show, hosted again this year by Samuel L. Jackson, December 7 in Las Vegas.

No word on what songs will be performed, although the press release from VGL noted that "brand new never before seen material" is in the cards.

JoystiqVideo Games Live to make TV debut on Spike VGAs originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Nov 2007 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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