Zelda and Final Fantasy scores get orchestra treatment

The soundtracks of hit video games including The Legend of Zelda and Final Fantasy are to be given the full orchestra treatment at a special concert in Liverpool.

The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Robert Ames, will perform a setlist including some music selected on the back of social media polls of gaming fans.

Marek Smagala, from the Liverpool Game-Dev Network, said: "Game developers and game fans alike have very strong affection for the music from their favourite games."

Liverpool is the UK home of gaming giants Sony PlayStation and Tencent.

Smagala added: "Liverpool has a strong games heritage, and the community is thriving once again."

As well as Zelda and Final Fantasy, the concert will feature music from more recent titles including The Last of Us, Fallout 4, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim and more.

Radio Three Sound of Gaming presenter Elle Osili Wood, who will also be presenting the concert, said: "Heard live, [video game scores] become something truly magical, whisking audiences away on an incredible, immersive journey that celebrates the beauty and imagination of storytelling through music."

Beyond the Console: The Music of Video Games will take place on Saturday 24 January at Liverpool Philharmonic Hall.

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