Video Games Live

Originally Posted by Kairi Li

Wow... The deciet that Play! gets away with appalls me. I don't see any reason why anyone should go to their concerts or support them anymore. I don't care if they got Akira and other awesome composers or Angela Aki whom I REALLY wanna see live, nothing excuses them from being liars.

Speaking of which, any chance to get Miss Aki to perform for VGL? Along with Akira Yamaoka to play Silent Hill?

And Mr. Maul, no need to jump on anyone's throat when someone says something "bad" about Play!. If their dishonesty might affect VGL in anway, it needs to said and aknowledged. Sometimes people worded things wrong, and thanks to the way the forums work, can't edit everything. And no, this doesn't signify that Jason and Tommy are still at each other's throat, I'm sure in Tommy's case at least, he's taking it with a professional stride, avoiding actual name calling or insults and just state the facts, dunno about Jason though... I mean, he IS lying and all... Kinda bugs me that you tend to post when someone says something bad about Play! or Eminence posts something not to your standard, whereas you're absent in other times. Are you just a fan of Play!, or has VGL or Eminence done something not to your liking? (Aside form your personal views on Seraph, which can't possibly represent all of Eminence.) Tommy has a right to express his views on the bad things Play! has done, and his veiws can't possibly affect VGL. Stop associate one (or two) man's opinions, feelings and views and just state that it will affect their concert series badly. In fact, thanks to Tommy and Seraph, Play! just lost one potential concert goer. Me. How is THAT bad for VGL?

Forgive me for asking all this thats kinda off topic, but man its been bugging me alot. I've been to VGL and it was great. I've heard recordings and things from Play!, and I am NOT impressed at all with their management or arrangements, the performance in the leaked recording wasn't as good as VGL either. Haven't gone to Eminence yet, but will soon, and from videos their performance was amazing. Why the seemingly defense on a concert series thats horribly managed, has mediocre arrangements and have been decieving people through marketting and the media? Or is this all about your high standard of "professionalism" again? So in order to remain professional, one can't voice his veiws and opinions, and that whatver comes flying out of his mouth MUST be assiociated to their company/group? What the hell are those disclaimers for DVD commentaries then?

Play! is badly handled and they are liars, and Tommy and Seraph voiced their displeasure and facts, thats all, no need to blow this out proportion.

Hi Kairi,

Thanks for your continued support of our show. I agree 100% with all of your above comments. I think most of the questions were directed towards Mr. Maul so I'll let him answer you directly.

My position is the same as it has always been. I have no problem with as many video game concerts in the world as possible... especially if they are different and unique to ours (which Eminence and Play! are). But where I need to absolutely draw the line is when people clearly and blatantly lie about things in order to make us look bad and to make themselves look good. No one has brought anything on themselves that they did not deserve. It is not my intention to hurt Play! they do that all by themselves... they certainly don't need my help.

It's not me who forces them to cancel shows or lie to the media. It's not me who lies on our website about where we've been or charges people to meet composers. I can only defend the misinformation spread about our show with facts which is exactly what I have always done from the start.

If those facts make Play! look bad... please don't blame us. Maybe they should have thought of that before posting crazy lies on their website or making up things to tell the press. Yeah... I get a little offended when people assume I'm purposely trying to spread bad publicity about them when all I'm doing is trying to clear OUR name which they have only tried to smear and lie about. I'm certainly not going to sit back and have someone try to destroy everything we've worked so hard to build over the past 5 years. And if people want to think that by defending our show that we're on some kind of "bad publicity" campaign... then so be it. I'm obviously not going to change anyone's mind at that point. But anyone thinking that way isn't looking at the situation for what it really is.

I remember being in here a few months ago defending the fact about what kinds of symphonies and orchestas we use. "We're not PROFESSIONAL enough" people were thinking and saying. Please take a look at the bottom of this page to see who we have worked with and who we continue to work with: http://www.videogameslive.com/index.php?s=sponsors

We've played more prestigeous venues and with more prestigeous orchestras than anyone else in the world who is doing this. It saddens me to think that people would think differently.

In regards to your question about Miss Aki & Akira.... Akira is a good friend of mine and we've been trying to figure out which shows would be the best and most convenient for him to perform and attend. He was going to do our Hollywood Bowl show last year but unfortunately it feel on the same weekend as the Tokyo Game Show.

We have also been in touch with Miss Aki and she would very much like to perform with us. She was touring in Japan last we spoke with her but we will continue to speak and I'm sure you'll be seeing her name pop up eventually in our shows.

Thanks,


Tommy

This thing is sticky, and I don't like it. I don't appreciate it.

Originally Posted by Teioh

Yay, that's what I've been waiting for.
Where would be a better place to hold a concert than in Central Europe?
As somebody from Cologne, West Germany would be perfect for me and it's not too far away from Belgium and Netherlands, either.
We've got the Games Convention concert in Leipzig, that covers the whole east.

As for gaming websites and magazines, I have to admit that listening to game music has superseded any addiction to play games for me.
I guess when you hang out at Gamingforce you don't need any equivalent in your language anymore.


edit: May I add that the Cologne Philharmony takes approximately 2,000 people, the Cologne Arena takes approx. 20,000

Yeah... we've been talking in great detail to 5 different areas/cities in Germany. They are extremely excited about bringing VGL over there. Everything is being worked on now and we will hopefully have some kind of announcement coming in April.


Tommy

I am a dolphin, do you want me on your body?

Originally Posted by Dragon God

Hey Tommy,

any news concerning the upcoming Montreal venue ?

Also would you consider performing in the atlantic canadian provinces (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, P. E. I. and Newfoundland) ?

Nothing yet... but very soon. Been having lots of meetings and are getting close to a deal.

Tommy






Additional Spam:

Originally Posted by Jpnezeshorty

Hey Tommy,

LOVED your show in Sept. '06 when you came to the Hollywood Bowl. Can't wait to see you guys live again. I'm a bit bummed I didn't go up to SF to see the past show you just did; heard it was a blast!

Just thought I'd say "keep up the awesome work!" and I'm looking very forward to your next Los Angeles / San Diego show for something new and exciting.

Best Regards,
Shorty

Yo!,

Thanks! Yeah... the San Fran show was great and really special! We just posted a bunch of pics but have a lot more on the way. We're just finishing up a story that we'll be posting on the front page. Been collecting all the photos, videos, reviews, comments, etc.

Here's a good one with Miyamoto & Kondo in my dressing room:
http://www.videogameslive.com/galler...lguests?full=1

For anyone interested... we have about 200 pics we uploaded with lots more on the way: http://www.videogameslive.com/gallery/album31?page=1


Thanks for the support Shorty (that's my nickname too! haahhaaa!)

We're playing during the big E4 gaming convention in Los Angeles on Oct. 19th at a very special and unique venue that no one has ever played before! It's gonna be really cool... special announcements coming soon.


Tommy

Most amazing jew boots

Originally Posted by lord-of-shadow

Yeah, there's a group of kids from my college who were going to go to the Play! concert in Hartford. When it got cancelled, all five of them bought tickets for your New Haven show instead, on my recommendation. Not that they needed to be told; they're as excited about this as I am.



I sent you a message as well, here at GXF. I completely understand if it's not on your list of priorities, of course, and you don't have the time/inclination to look at it. Just thought I'd make sure you got it.

Yo!,

Just sent you a PM in regards to the interview. Maybe we can do it in person in New Haven? Thanks for the recommendation! It's going to be an amazing show with something very special that we have never done before!

More info coming on Monday.


Tommy

What kind of toxic man-thing is happening now?

Originally Posted by Strahd

It's nice to hear I really do hope that you'll come to Athens We'll be there again cheering

Working on it this week actually!

I'll keep ya posted.


Tommy

FELIPE NO

Originally Posted by Stabby

Some music I would love to be played:

- Soul Calibur II
- Zelda ALTTP: Dark Overworld
- Donkey Kong Country: Coral Capers (water music)
- Black: Main Theme
- Skies of Arcadia: anything
- Shadow of the Colossus: Revived Power ~ Battle with the Colossus
- Headhunter: Jack's Theme

Anyway, Belgium has a higher percentage of gamers than Germany and that's an impressive thing considering that most of Germany's gamers are MMO-players (who wouldn't come to VGL I guess).

Thanks for the list.

We have Headhunter: Jack's Theme and are working on others on your list. It's tough when you can only do about 20 segments per night... we already have over 30 so something is always going to be left out. A good problem to have I guess! I enjoyed the score to Black as well and Chris Tilton and Michael Giancchino are good friends of mine.


Tommy






Additional Spam:

Originally Posted by Shaolin Samurai

All you guys making "I'd like to hear XXX game" posts - you might as well throw out any Square Enix games out the window as the rights to those are locked up tight (except KH).

But as for other games to add to the lineup, the lack of Metroid/Super Metroid is the most noticeable of all, considering it's part of Nintendo's holy triforce of franchises (especially since the other two, Mario and Zelda, are represented).

Actually, that isn't true at all. All of the current concerts including Video Games Live perform Final Fantasy music. I think you may be getting the "video" rights mixed up with the music rights. We can all play it... we just can't show any video.

Here is "One Winged Angel" the way we performed it last week in San Francisco. That's me on guitar with VertexGuy who does a KILLER version of Contra with us now. This was the first time we performed OWA with guitars... it's closer to the Advent Children/Voices version (without the rock drums and bass).

One Winged Angel: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uopqwVYy0W8
Contra Jungle Jam: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dsu4Tzgahoo


We do get asked for Metroid a lot but still haven't found a really good way to incorporate it into the show as of yet. Still trying though.


Tommy






Additional Spam:

Originally Posted by Teioh

After throwing all Square-Enix games out of the window, I've come to think it would be cool to hear the main theme from Kitakama Hakase no Yuuutsu at one of the concerts. Of course, no gamer identifies with that game and I'm not even sure if I got the game's title correct. Yet, it would sound awesome if it wasn't a midi because Project-μ who made this game went bankrupt and can't afford an orchestra anymore.


As for Stuttgart as a location. Well, as long as it's not too far in the east..
All 'gamers' (I'm not a gamer and I love these game music concerts) around Hamburg or Bremen will be angry at you now, Hamu-Sumo -- but Stuttgart..that's two hours by train, no obstacle.

Does Stuttgart have a Köln Arena?

To all of the German folks out there...

It looks like we'll be doing multiple locations in Germany this year so hopefully everyone will be close to a show.


Tommy

What, you don't want my bikini-clad body?

Yo Everyone,

I'm super slammed right now preparing for our show this coming week in New Haven, CT at Yale. I'll try to get to everyone's comments and questions in a few days right before I leave.

Just wanted to quickly post this story/e-mail blast we just finished about the San Fran show that I thought some of you may be interested in because it has a lot of media, pics, videos, interviews, reviews, etc.

Thanks.


Tommy

================================================== ====================

VIDEO GAMES LIVE TRIUMPHS IN SAN FRANCISCO!

KOJI KONDO DELIGHTS FANS AS NINTENDO GAME LEGEND SHIGERU MIYAMOTO AND OTHER GAMING LEGENDS ATTEND SPECTACULAR SOLD OUT PERFORMANCE

READ THE INCREDIBLE REVIEWS, SEE THE EXCLUSIVE PICTURES AND EXPERIENCE THE SPECIAL VIDEO CONTENT

Some audience members described it as “The greatest show I’ve ever seen!” others said “It was one of the best nights of my entire life!” Music4Games.net mentioned in their review that “VGL truly shined as the premier game music concert production on the circuit and demonstrated why, as host and co-creator Tommy Tallarico put it, video games have become the entertainment of choice in the 21st century.”

With all of the excitement and energy surrounding each performance it’s understandable why Video Games Live continues to astound sold out audiences around the world. Friday, March 9th, 2007 marked the return of Video Games Live as the closing ceremony of the Game Developers Conference held in San Francisco. The greatest video game names and legends of all-time were present to support what the industry is calling “the absolute best example of pushing video games forward as an artistic and culturally significant art-form.”

On hand was legendary Nintendo game designer Shigeru Miyamoto - the most famous and biggest name in the world for gaming. Mr. Miyamoto is the creator of the most popular franchises and characters in video games including Mario, Zelda and many more. Other special guests included a rare public appearance by Alexey Pajitnov (creator of Tetris) who also took part in the post-show meet and greet with fans. In fact over 30 big name designers, composers and talent were present for the post-show activities. The complete list of special guests can be found here: http://videogameslive.com/index.php?s=sanfransisco

But the biggest entertainment of the evening was the presence and performance of celebrated video game composer Koji Kondo. Mr. Kondo performed a world premiere personal solo piano rendition of his music for Super Mario Bros. “It was utterly stunning”, said one reviewer “I was totally blown away and will probably never get another opportunity in my life to experience that. Thank-you VGL!” Mr. Kondo was also on hand to present the symphonic versions of his music from Mario and Zelda.

With so many special guests, performances, surprises and media coverage that were present we thought we would gather up as much information as we can and make it available to everyone.

Special thanks go out to our incredible sponsors at Intel, Dream Authentics, Ex’pressions College, ASCAP, Advanced Media Network, the Entertainment Consumers Association (ECA), Sega, the NARAS/Grammy’s P&E Wing, Music4Games.net & 1UP.com.










VIDEOS

Associated Press Video Coverage
http://video.ap.org/v/en-ap/v.htm?g=...advnj&fg=email

GameTrailers/MTV Feature
http://www.gametrailers.com/player.p...pe=mov&pl=game

Koji Kondo Rehearsal
1UP.com: http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3157934
GameVideos.com: http://www.gamevideos.com/video/id/9931
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BQUW3Ip380w

Charles Martinet AMN Interview
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VnnqEhp_68w

Koji Kondo AMN Interview
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lJe_6EdUlGU

Jonathan Mann (aka GameJew) sings to Miyamoto
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fA8u2tqwRLg

Jonathan Mann (aka GameJew) at Pre-Show
http://gamejew.com/?q=node/31

1UP.com VGL Feature (15 minutes in)
http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3158057

Fan VideoBlog Part 1 (Includes Pre-show, costume contest & Miyamoto sighting)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=czOH_kR5rEw

Fan VideoBlog Part 2 (Includes one of the best Frogger competitions so far!)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=czOH_kR5rEw

Miyamoto sighting
http://www.offkilter.com/2007/03/shi...d-in-same.html

Final Fantasy & Metal Gear Rehearsals
http://www.gamevideos.com/video/id/10187

We’re all big fans of YouTube and love it when fans help to spread the word by posting videos for everyone else to view. Because the concept of our show is so unique, we find that our biggest challenge is raising awareness for what a show experience is like. Through the spreading of personal videos on the internet we find that more people start to get a better idea of some of the unique elements we use. We had a lot of very special performances for the San Francisco show that others may never get a chance to see and we always try to make each and every show a little unique. Although the quality isn’t always the best we still enjoy some of the fan made videos that get posted. Here are some of our favorites from the San Francisco show.

Final Fantasy VII: “One Winged Angel”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uopqwVYy0W8
Halo 3: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HxwMtU05Pbc
Contra Jungle Jam: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dsu4Tzgahoo
Koji Kondo live: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JFa_GaUAdrw
Martin plays Final Fantasy: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XkfdCsNqGd4
Space Invaders segment: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5XUxoXRSqPw
LucasArts Reunion: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cp6cVT_1kfc
Dee Baker: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XS1pnR-yWXI
Metal Gear Solid rehearsal: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLfQ0X29JDw


The audience wanted an encore so Tommy asked everyone to turn on their portable gaming systems and cell phones to light up the venue.

Digital Lighters: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=as6ODJmzYAU




PICTURES

VGL Gallery:
http://www.videogameslive.com/gallery/album31

Backstage w/VGL Team, Miyamoto, Kondo & others:
http://www.videogameslive.com/galler...lguests?full=1




PREVIEW

San Francisco Chronicle: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/articl...DTL&type=music




REVIEWS

Music4Games.net:
http://www.music4games.net/Features_Display.aspx?id=128


Game Informer:
http://www.gameinformer.com/News/Sto...1811.11992.htm


Destructiod:
http://www.destructoid.com/update-vi...ul-30377.phtml




INTERVIEWS

Wired – Koji Kondo Interview:
http://www.wired.com/news/technology...ulture_games_2


WIRED Koji Kondo Story:
http://www.wired.com/news/technology...?tw=wn_index_2


Wired – Tommy Interview:
http://blog.wired.com/games/2007/03/...mmy_talla.html


Wired – Charles Martinet Interview:
http://blog.wired.com/games/2007/03/...arles_mar.html


GameSpot – Tommy Interview:
http://www.gamespot.com/pages/news/s...s&subj=6167238




RADIO

Game Music Radio (VGL coverage starts at 21 minutes):
http://www.gamemusicradio.com/audio/...07_VGL-128.mp3




QUOTES


“This night VGL truly shined as the premier game music concert production on the circuit and demonstrated why, as host and co-creator Tommy Tallarico put it, video games have become the entertainment of choice in the 21st century.”
Greg O’Connor-Read, Music4Games.net

“If you haven’t seen VGL, it is a phenomenal experience. The arrangements are superb, every video is literally spot on with the music, and the audience interaction creates a fun and exciting environment that is completely unlike any concert you’ve ever seen before.”


“That was the most fun I've had at a concert in my life.”


“Video Games Live concert on Friday night was utterly stunning. I had no idea what to expect and I was totally blown away. They really have something awesome going there, and I’ve been raving about it ever since it ended.”


“Words can’t describe it. I saw something truly fantastic.”


“The crowd’s ecstatic reception was reminiscent of Nobuo Uematsu’s triumphant entrance during the Dear Friends concert at Walt Disney concert hall nearly 3 years ago but VGL even managed to beat that since Mr. Kondo performed a brilliant rendition of his Mario Bros. theme on solo piano that showcased exactly why so many fans champion memorable game music over generic Hollywood-type scores.”


“And the cherry on the cake was the attendance of Shigeru Miyamoto in the audience to celebrate Mr. Kondo’s musical works.”


“For those who witnessed the occasion in all its majesty, it was one of those rock n’ roll tribute moments that for game music fans could be comparable to that of Queen’s standout performance at Live Aid.”


“Last night I saw the best symphony show I've ever seen.”


“This VGL show was simply astounding, incredible, and so impactful...I was sitting there the whole time thinking about how amazing VGL is... it is doing so much to bring the industry to the masses, and was so uniting and exhilarating...it was like a big "family" out there in the audience, and when everyone pulled out their DS's and cellphones...wow! What a superb job, and I can't think of anyone who could pull this off the way Jack & Tommy have done with so much integrity, fun, and sense of dedication. Bravo! (man, we all got goosebumps when Koji played his own music on the piano...I felt like I was apart of a historic event).”


“I realized we were witnessing something special. The way the lights flickered and the chorus hummed before the beginning of each song, it was awe-inspiring.”


“When it all ended, my palms hurt from all the clapping. My feet were tired from the many standing ovations that were given (and rightfully so) by the end of the night. I appreciated it all and can’t wait for another opportunity to view it and listen to it again. Thanks, Tommy and everyone who put together Video Games Live. Not only did it remind me how vividly I remember the music from the games I grew up with, but it reminded me just how beautiful the artform of gaming truly is.”


“It was absolutely amazing! The best concert I've ever been to!”


“Video Games Live! The best show ever!”


“Simply Amazing! What a great performance! Only at VGL can an orchestra be described as kicking ass.”


“Video Games Live rocked my socks off.”


“The concert was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had.”





BLOGS

http://www.pianosquall.com/


http://candiceshane.wordpress.com/


http://headexplodie.com/blog/2007/03...ames-live.html




================================================== ================================


Upcoming Shows


Saturday, March 31st, 2007
New Haven, CT
Woolsey Hall - Yale University Campus
Yale Symphony
TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW!


Thursday, April 26th, 2007
Columbus, Ohio
Mershon Auditorium
Columbus Symphony
TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW!


Wednesday, June 20th, 2007
Dallas, TX
Meyerson Symphony Hall
Dallas Symphony
TICKETS ON SALE APRIL


Thursday, June 21st, 2007
Dallas, TX
Meyerson Symphony Hall
Dallas Symphony
TICKETS ON SALE APRIL


Friday, June 29th, 2007
Washington, DC
Kennedy Center
National Symphony
TICKETS ON SALE APRIL


Saturday, June 30th, 2007
Washington, DC
Kennedy Center
National Symphony
TICKETS ON SALE APRIL


Friday, July 6th, 2007
Detroit, MI
Detroit Orchestra Hall
Detroit Symphony
TICKETS ON SALE APRIL


Friday, July 13th, 2007
Houston, TX
Jones Hall
Houston Symphony
TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW!


Saturday, July 14th, 2007
Houston, TX
Jones Hall
Houston Symphony
TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW!


Friday, July 20th, 2007
Louisville, KY
Kentucky Center for Arts
Louisville Orchestra
TICKETS ON SALE APRIL


September, 2007
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Brasilia, Brazil
São Paulo, Brazil
TBA


Friday, October 19th, 2007
Los Angeles, CA
Venue - TBA
E for All Expo
TICKETS ON SALE APRIL


Friday, November 9th, 2007
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Jack Singer Concert Hall
Calgary Philharmonic
TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW!


Saturday, November 10th, 2007
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Jack Singer Concert Hall
Calgary Philharmonic
TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW!


Nov. - Dec.
EUROPEAN TOUR
Countries & Venues TBA


Friday, February 15th, 2008
FT. Wayne, IN
Embassy Theatre
Ft. Wayne Philharmonic
TICKETS ON SALE APRIL


Friday, March 28th, 2008
Salt Lake City, UT
Abravanel Hall
Utah Symphony
TICKETS ON SALE APRIL


Saturday, March 29th, 2008
Salt Lake City, UT
Abravanel Hall
Utah Symphony
TICKETS ON SALE APRIL


MORE DATES AND LOCATIONS FOR 2007 & 2008 ARE BEING ADDED WEEKLY!

CURRENT DATES AND TICKET LINKS ARE ALWAYS AVAILABLE AT:
http://www.videogameslive.com/index.php?s=dates

Jam it back in, in the dark.

Yo!,

Been working like crazy on the New Haven, CT show this weekend. Just put this out today. I know there are a LOT of Castlevania fans in here! It's going to be pretty cool! I'll make sure to record it and post an .mp3 for everyone! Check out the pipe organ!


Tommy


================================================== ==

VIDEO GAMES LIVE PERFORMING AT YALE UNIVERSITY WITH SPECIAL GAME INDUSTRY GUESTS, PANELS, PERFORMANCES AND PRE-SHOW FESTIVAL

Esteemed Ivy League University to Host Historic First Collegiate Concert and Open-Public Educational Industry Panel

Special Performances to Include Video Game Pianist Martin Leung Performing an Exclusive Castlevania Arrangement on 104 Year Old Yale Pipe Organ

New Haven, Conn. — Following sold-out shows around the world, Video Games Live will perform in Yale University’s Woolsey Hall, corner of College and Grove streets, on March 31st at 8 p.m. Video Games Live is a multi-media event celebrating the music of video games. Music will be performed by the Yale Symphony Orchestra and a full choir, synchronized with video footage, lighting, solo performers, electronic percussion, live action and interactive segments that create an explosive entertainment experience. This groundbreaking historic performance will be the first time symphonic video game music has ever been presented with a university.

Special events surrounding the show include a video game industry educational panel to take place on the Yale Campus the day before the concert – Friday, March 30th. This special panel event is open-to-the-public and there is no charge. The panel entitled “Video Games – Past, Present & Future” will consist of industry veterans Seamus Blackley (XBOX creator, game designer, CAA), Lorne Lanning (OddWorld Inhabitants), Hal Halprin (IEMA, ECA) as well as Video Games Live creators and industry composers Tommy Tallarico (Earthworm Jim, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater, Metroid Prime) and Jack Wall (Myst III, Myst IV, Jade Empire, Mass Effect). The event will take place in Sudler Hall on the Yale University Campus from 3:00PM to 5:00PM.

On Saturday, March 31st there will be a special pre-show festival taking place in the 7,000 sq ft. Commons Dining Hall on the Yale Campus. The pre-show festival will consist of the ever popular Costume Contest as well as playable games, interactive music demos by Cakewalk, Intel computers, Entertainment Consumers Association (ECA) info booth and a variety of game competitions including Guitar Hero II and Halo 2 being hosted by Connecticon. The pre-show festival will take place between 6:00PM – 8:00PM.

In keeping with the tradition of making each and every show unique, Video Games Live has put together a special Castlevania arrangement which will be performed by the Video Game Pianist - Martin Leung on a 104 year old 3-story Newberry pipe organ. The organ has been in Woolsey Hall since 1903 with the hall itself being built in 1901 (image of pipe organ). Other special performers include original Civilization IV solo vocalist Ron Ragin of the Talisman African Choir who will be reprising his amazing vocals for the exclusive Civilization IV segment. Aside from the extraordinary line-up of game industry luminaries and performers, also on hand for the post-show meet and greet will be video game composer Tom Salta whose soundtracks for games such as Red Steel, Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter 1 & 2 and Need for Speed Underground have gained him critical acclaim.

“It’s a dream come true to be performing with the Yale Symphony,” said leading game composer and Video Games Live co-creator Tommy Tallarico. “What an amazing privilege and honor for the video game industry to be a part of such a historical and prestigious establishment.”

Brian Robinson, Yale Symphony managing director says, “The excitement level among the student musicians has been overwhelming. There is a real connection to this music that is helping to introduce a whole new generation of people to a symphonic performance.” He added, “When you walk in, you will not recognize Woolsey Hall. You'll see lighting trusses, giant screens, an extended stage, etc. As far as special effects, it will be something Woolsey has not had in a long time."

Ticket prices range from $15 to $35. Tickets are available online at: Shubert Theater - CAPA Ticketing





About Video Games Live™
Created by two industry-leading video game composers, Tommy Tallarico and Jack Wall, Video Games Live™ (produced under their company Mystical Stone Entertainment, LLC) is the front runner in the field of live game music performance. Video Games Live™ is an exciting concert event featuring music from the biggest video games of all time. The debut performance was launched on July 6, 2005 at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, featuring the Los Angeles Philharmonic. With more than 11,000 people in attendance, it was the largest video game concert in the world.

About Yale Symphony Orchestra
In its 41-year history, the Yale Symphony Orchestra has established a well-respected place in the musical world as one of the premiere undergraduate orchestras in the United States, committed to challenging and exciting programs. As ambassadors of friendship and culture, the Yale Symphony Orchestra has received enthusiastic accolades on its national and international tours.



PRESS CONTACT

Gila Reinstein
203-432-1325

Brian Robinson
203-432-4140

There's nowhere I can't reach.

After Asteroids is Missle Command.
After Joust is Satan's Hollow which is where that classical music that we play (Ride of the Valkyries) was originally part of.


T.T.

This thing is sticky, and I don't like it. I don't appreciate it.

WHAT THE HELL!?!??!?!!!

This board has been up this entire time?!?!?

I thought it had got taken down last spring. Tried going to go on it a bunch of times but it always came up as an error. I guess they changed the URL from a .com to a .org? Easier to get away with some of the things maybe?? hehehehehheee. Who would go after a non-profit? Nice!

Anyway... I feel like a total idiot for not knowing about this. Maybe they e-mailed all of the people signed up and I just missed it??

Well... anyway.... Looks like I have a lot of catching up to do as well as answering a bunch of questions.

Before I do, I'd just like to say THANK-YOU to everyone out there who made Video Games Live the huge success it was in 2007!! This was a big year for us in terms of growth which has really helped to bring us to a whole new level!! In 2007, aside from the U.S. & Canada we also played in Korea, Spain, England, New Zealand and 3 weeks in Brazil! (We freakin' LOVE Brazil!). The word of our tour and success has been traveling rapidly to symphonies and promoters around the world and the things that are happening for us now are really making the 5 years of hard work really worth it.

In 2005 we did 3 shows, 2006 we did 11, this year we ended up doing 29 and in 2008 we're currently scheduling over 50 shows!

Please keep the suggestions of cities and countries coming! It was because of this thread that we ended up looking into and doing some of the cities and countries we did (and are still planning to do). As always, the latest TOUR DATES can always be found here: Video Games Live | www.videogameslive.com

Take a look at Jan., Feb. & March! This is only the beginning... we're scheduled to have every month looking like that over the next month or so. We've even starting booking for 2009! (Seattle).

Please check out the Video Games Live website at: www.videogameslive.com to see all of the amazing announcements we've had... just over the past couple of weeks. And please sign up to the mailing list to get the inside scoop on stuff before anyone.

What an honor it's been to perform and spread the music of my peers all over the world. For as much as I have done in my life and career, this is by far the most fun I've ever had. Thank-you to EVERYONE out there for the support. Spreading the word and explaining exactly what Video Games Live is, has always been our biggest challenge. As more people see it, hear it and experience it... they start spreading the news to others and a snowball effect starts to happen. We were always told from the beginning that because of the uniqueness and cutting-edge nature of the event (and the industry) that this would be slow build and the key was to just keep playing as much as possible in as many different places as possible. We've learned that no marketing or PR in the world is stronger than "word of mouth". So thank-you again to all of the people out there who have been helping to spread Video Games Live. Please continue to do so or if you'd really like to get involved... sign-up for our online Street Team (Video Games Live - Street Team) and really help to make a difference.

Before I get all misty-eyed I better start answering your questions!!




Tommy


================================================== ====

Originally Posted by tetre

As much as I hate to sound lame, I've gotta say it.

You're a fantastic promoter of this event, Tommy. I'm a Classically Trained Violist, and it's interesting to me that occasionally there are debates and discussions around the school of music here about current repertoire, concert etiquette in this day and age, etc. Not to mention the apocalyptical comments that Symphony Orchestras are dying and will become a thing of the past within 30 years because of the "Orchestra audience" dying off. I think what you're doing is fantastic for not only Video Games, but it's fantastic for those who are looking to go into music and Music Education/Performance/Composition (me) that there is something going on right now that can invigorate a love for going to hear some of the world's greatest orchestras, greatest instruments, greatest stages over many of the other possible things -- and not only that, but it's doing it for kids ages 8-18 moreso than those over 50. Countless people will admit to wanting to play the piano because of such tunes as Aerith's Theme or To Zanarkand, and through the Piano lessons or perhaps simply online forums (The Concert Hall, for example), learn to have a love of music and beauty. This is what music is all about, and I thank you for continuing with this project to its fullest extent.

Hi tetre,

Thanks so much for your kind words! It's letters/statements/e-mails like this that make all the crazy hours and weekends of working worth it!!


Tommy


================================================== =====

Additional Spam:

Originally Posted by José

Well, I see that the listing for "NYC" has been moved up
from the bottom of the "TBA" list to the top of "TBA." I'm
now confident I won't qualify for AARP membership before
the show comes here. My compliments.


Big fat j/k.

Hi Jose!,

After having it as a TBA or COMING SOON on our website for over a year we are FINALLY proud to announce that our NEW YORK CITY date (and first vg concert ever in NYC!) will be announced within the next week or so! NYC is a VERY expensive place to perform with a big symphony... we were waiting for the right partners and sponsors to help us out. We didn't want to go in half-assed and make the same mistakes we did 3 years ago when we tried to just play a bunch of cities at once. NYC is a VERY important market and one that needs to be handled with a lot of understanding and care. The right partners are KEY in getting out the marketing and PR and we waited so that we had the opportunity to work with the biggest and best that New York City has to offer!!

We're really excited about this particular show and will be pulling out all the stops! We'll be in NYC in April, 2008! Just in time to catch a Yankees games!




Tommy

Additional Spam:
================================================== ======

Originally Posted by Stabby

Tommy, please do Belgium, you know you want to!

Yes! You are correct! We do want to!

I'll send an e-mail to our European agents right now requesting an update on Belgium. I know we've talked about it in the past. We'll get there eventually!


Tommy

================================================== =======

Additional Spam:

Originally Posted by watkinzez

https://www.videogameslive.com/index.php?story=91
It's not dates, but it's a start. Europe/Asia/Australia tour for 2007/2008.
Play! might have beaten it here, but I'm still looking forward to it. The other guys don't have Beyond Good and Evil, do they?

Yep! We're the only ones that play Beyond Good & Evil however we don't play it every show. What country are you in? I'll try to make sure we get it in if at all possible. It's sometimes so hard to pick the 20 segments of our show each night... especially when we now have over 40 different segments! The good news is that we're always adding to our show and each time we play a new area the show will always have new segments.


Tommy

================================================== =======

I am a dolphin, do you want me on your body?

Originally Posted by shinryu

Super ultra cool Man Brazil again!!!
ill do my best to stay there
Tommy!!!!!

Brazil was once again... UN-FREAKIN-BELIEVABLE!!!

Did you happen to go to any of the shows??

Just last week I just finished working on 2 new video trailers from our 3 weeks in Brazil this year.

Please check out:

Video Games Live | www.videogameslive.com


Let me know what you think.


Tommy

================================================== ====

Additional Spam:

Originally Posted by Arcubalis

On the topic of Metroid (an important one), there was a performance of some Metroid music on the Orchestral Game Concert CDs, so there is an arrangement out there, Tommy! GET IT!

Yo Jayson!,

Didn't know you were on here! Cool!

In regards to Metroid... We'll have some exciting news for you and all Metroid fans in January.




Tommy

================================================== ===

Additional Spam:

Originally Posted by Strahd

Great news I hope that this DVD and CD will be released in Europe too

Yep! That is definitely the plan.


Tommy

==================================================

Additional Spam:

Originally Posted by Josh_1

Tommy,

Is Video Games Live coming to GenCon again this year? Can't wait for the DVD and CD as I'll buy them both!

Due to a scheduling conflict we couldn't make it out there in 2007... but look for an exciting announcement in Jan. about Gen Con & VGL for 2008!




Tommy

================================================== ===

Additional Spam:

Originally Posted by Arcubalis

On the topic of Metroid (an important one), there was a performance of some Metroid music on the Orchestral Game Concert CDs, so there is an arrangement out there, Tommy! GET IT!

I has been gotten!!!




T.T.

================================================== ======

Additional Spam:

Originally Posted by Moguta

I have to agree with this whole-heartedly. The Super Metroid arrangement is one of the very best pieces of the Orchestral Game Concert series (and Video Games Live performs the exact Mario Bros. & Legend of Zelda orchestrations made for that series). It's the 4th track of the 4th Orchestral Game Concert album, which can be sampled here: Viewing file list of Orchestral Game Concert 4

I attended the Washington performance, which was an awesome experience. Especially neat was hearing Overclocked Remixes piped over the loudspeakers before the show even began! My only wish was for increased variety (like a Super Metroid piece, hint hint ), since the orchestra played almost the exact same set I heard in Philly last year. But, Medal of Honor and Kingdom Hearts still really got to me just like before.

Glad you enjoyed the D.C. performance. Expect your "wish" to come true in 2008.




Tommy

================================================== =====

Additional Spam:

Originally Posted by datschge

T.T. likely doesn't know GF's new URL yet.

Ain't dat da truth!








Tommy

================================================== =====

Additional Spam:

Originally Posted by xMxEdGaRx

I'm glad you're coming back here to Brazil in September for another awesome performance Tallarico! I'm looking forward to this and I've already bought my ticket!

Will the DVD/CD be on sale during the show here in Sao Paulo - SP?

What did you think of the show? Which city did you go to?

We tried our hardest to get the CD & DVD available for those performances but didn't want to rush it. 2008 for sure!


Tommy

================================================== =======

Additional Spam:

Originally Posted by Hamu-Sumo

Argh, can't wait to the Germany date(s)!

We're announcing one of our German dates next week. It's going to be a very big announcement!!


Tommy

================================================== ======

Additional Spam:

Originally Posted by Kairi Li

Game | Life - Wired Blogs

Video Games Live CD Releases October 15

Tommy Tallarico's Video Games Live concert series has been traveling all over the world as of late. But if you still haven't gotten the chance to check it out (or want to relive your memories of the show), you can buy a CD of the performances on October 15.

The CD will feature medleys from games like The Legend of Zelda, Super Mario, Halo, Warcraft, Sonic the Hedgehog, Tron, Myst, Civ IV, and Final Fantasy. Performers include the Slovak National Orchestra, the Crouch End Chorus, and pianist Martin Leung.

You know, Martin Leung: the guy who did that Castlevania medley on the pipe organ in New Haven earlier this year. Can we get that on the CD if we ask nicely enough?

You'll be able to buy the album, on the EMI Classics label, at the VGL concert in Los Angeles on October 19 during the E For All expo.

Thanks so much for posting that Kairi! You've really helped us out over the years!!! Where are you living these days? Japan wasn't it?


Here's the up-to-the-minute update on the VGL EMI album. The original release date was set for October 15th. The album is completely done (including artwork, mastering, etc.). As VGL started to take off for 2008 the record company EMI (who is the biggest record company in the world!) decided that they were REALLY going to put a BIG push behind the album on a worldwide basis and spend a lot of money marketing it around the world. Our 2008 World Tour is going to be reaching a lot more people so we all thought it would make more sense to wait and do it right instead of rushing just to get it out for Christmas. Expect the CD to be released around March of 2008 when our tour will be in full swing.

The goal of EMI Classics is to make this album #1 on the Classical Charts around the world. It's a big goal... but then again... so wasn't this whole concert from the start.



We're really excited about the album and working with such a big label. We're really happy with the way the recording turned out! Some nice surprises on there as well.

Tommy

================================================== ======

Additional Spam:

Originally Posted by Kairi Li

Well I doubt Martin Leung is fully trained on Organ arrangements and playing, seeing as he IS a piano player. I think they used the Organ for sake of effects.

And when you play for a huge audience, you always pick the popular famous ones, its like going to a concert and the biggest cheers always come from the Hit singles or famous songs. Its just the nature of things unfortunatly.

Oh well, I think Martin did a good job for what its worth, and I am still excited for the CD.

Kairi,

You are 100% correct in all your comments. It is not a proper Pipe Organ arrangement. We didn't even find out about the pipe organ until shortly before the show. I asked if we could use it and they said "sure!"

You're again correct about picking the popular games/songs. As you're aware, our show appeals to everyone... including... the mainstream audience who may be hearing game music for the very first time. That being said, we always try to get in 2 or 3 off-the-wall selections that the hardcores may truly appreciate such as Beyond Good & Evil, Contra, StarCraft, Chrono Cross, BioShock, Monkey Island, Headhunter, Advent Rising, etc.

Additional Spam:

Originally Posted by Kairi Li

Well I doubt Martin Leung is fully trained on Organ arrangements and playing, seeing as he IS a piano player. I think they used the Organ for sake of effects.

And when you play for a huge audience, you always pick the popular famous ones, its like going to a concert and the biggest cheers always come from the Hit singles or famous songs. Its just the nature of things unfortunatly.

Oh well, I think Martin did a good job for what its worth, and I am still excited for the CD.

Kairi,

You are 100% correct in all your comments! (as always!)

It is not a proper Pipe Organ arrangement. We didn't even find out about the pipe organ until shortly before the show. I asked if we could use it and they said "sure!"

You're again correct about picking the popular games/songs. As you're aware, our show appeals to everyone... including... the mainstream audience who may be hearing game music for the very first time. That being said, we always try to get in 2 or 3 off-the-wall selections that the hardcores may truly appreciate such as Beyond Good & Evil, Contra, StarCraft, Chrono Cross, BioShock, Monkey Island, Headhunter, Advent Rising, etc.

As you know, the goal for us from the beginning as video game composers was to appeal to everyone in the world. Not just the hardcore gamers. Which is why it's so important for us to have the synchronized video, automated lights, special fx, interactivity with the crowd, pre-show festival, etc. (aside from being super cool. ) It's one of the things that really makes us completely different from the other touring game concerts out there and so far it's worked out great for us.


Tommy

================================================== ====

Additional Spam:

Originally Posted by José

It's been a while since I've run through this thread, and I thought to myself that I don't recall giving thanks for everything that went on at the DC shows during our OCReMix meetup that weekend. So...
Thanks to you guys for the great performance and the great musicians we got to meet, thanks to Tommy and Mike for graciously providing us with a little backstage and behind-the-scenes sneak peeks, and personal thanks from me to you, Tommy, for putting up with all my crap about having to wait so long for a New York show. The page says, "Coming Soon..." I can't wait. I'm wanna organize a big, honking OCR meetup soon as we get a definite date!

Yo Jose!,

Thanks so much for being a part of that "crew" and helping to spread the word. I really enjoyed hanging out with you guys and only wish I could have hung out more. Unfortunately (as you know) it gets a little crazy the day or so leading up to the shows.

Hope to see you in NYC!!!!!


Tommy

================================================== ===

Additional Spam:

Originally Posted by niki

My brother told me he saw an announcement in some paper for a concert in Paris sometime in spring 2008 ... I sure hope this actually happens.

Hmmm???



Announcement coming soon.


T.T.

================================================== =====

Additional Spam:

Originally Posted by Kaleb.G

Tommy, I plan on going to the LA concert next month. Could you give me a summary of what will be new in 2007 (compared to the 2006 LA concert)? Thanks.

Hi Kaleb,

I know it's a little too late now... but here was the info we put up on our website. We had an AMAZING post-show meet & greet! Check out some of the names on that list! Video Games Live | www.videogameslive.com

And unlike 'some' game concerts out there it was FREE to all ticket holders!



Here was a list of the new material: Video Games Live | www.videogameslive.com



Tommy

================================================== ======

Additional Spam:

Originally Posted by Crash Landon

Yes it has. Ownership and control of Gamingforce has shifted to its users. We're now a messageboard overseen by its own people, not an absentee creator. In the switch, we were forced to adopt a dot-org domain, however.

It's good that you found us again, though. We couldn't possibly send messages to everyone, so word of mouth was our strongest asset. Accounts remained active; members just needed to learn of the change.

On a different note: "Destinationz Unknown" from "The Terminator" was recently nominated in our "Song of the Week" contest. Though it didn't win (it was competing in a week chock-full of awesome) I enjoyed it quite a bit and it's been high on my playlist since. Thought you might appreciate the praise. I'd love to hear more work in that vein.

"Word of mouth was your strongest asset"... I do know about that!!

Wow! That is so cool that Destinationz Unknown was considered! That was originally from The Terminator Sega-CD as you mentioned. And was also on my first album. Tommy Tallarico - Virgin Games Greatest Hits Vol. I

That album was the very first video game album released worldwide and by a major label. I also believe it was the first album that a composer released? But I'm not sure. I'm sure somebody in here would know the answer better than me.

Here are some of the other songs from that album which are in the same style as Destinationz Unknown: www.tallarico.com - Albums

Yes... yes... I know... I looked like a complete DORK!!

But wait.... Here's something else that you may find interesting about that particular song.

I actually wrote it in the mid 80's with my cheeseball band Diamondz in the Rough.

The original song had lyrics and everything! Want to hear it? Our bass player Joe actually put up a MySpace page and put up the tune!
MySpace.com - Diamondz In The Rough - Springfield, Massachusetts - Pop / Rock / Powerpop - www.myspace.com/diamondzintherough

Prepare to wet yourself in laughter... at both the song and my choice of clothing and hair style!!



Hey... c'mon... leave me alone it was over 20 years ago!!


Rock On!




Tommy

================================================== ===

I was speaking idiomatically.

Originally Posted by datschge

I guess someone finally told you now?

hehehehehhee.. yeah!

Someone actually sent me a MySpace message asking me why I haven't posted on here in awhile.


Tommy

What kind of toxic man-thing is happening now?

Originally Posted by Diversion

I emailed you a month ago, too, but you spam filtered me! (Most likely)

Glad to see you back. I was living in Orlando and just moved back, I really want to be back there for the show coming up, great venue! WTB Disney job back

Yeah! We're REALLY looking forward to playing the Hard Rock Live! It's such an amazing looking venue. Never been inside... but have seen it from the outside a bunch of times. Reminds of the Colesseum in Rome!

http://www.videogameslive.com/files/...drockvenue.jpg

T.T.

FELIPE NO

Originally Posted by horseman85

All I have to say is thanks for finally taking VGL to Montreal. I just noticed the addition of Montreal the other day and I'll be getting tickets as soon as I can confirm with some friends.

Cool. Thanks!

Yeah... we would get TONS of e-mails and letters from people wanting us to go to Montreal. We were finally able to put something together that made sense for everyone. So far the tickets for the show are over 50% gone and there hasn't really been any marketing done at all. The promoter told us that if this keeps up they're going to add a 2nd Montreal show the day before! (We're playing Toronto the day after).

See ya in Feb!


Tommy

What, you don't want my bikini-clad body?

Originally Posted by lord-of-shadow

Damn, if you'd just had the Montreal how this past week it would have coincided with the Montreal Games Summit and I would have been able to attend. Alas, I am too broke to go up to Montreal again in just a few short months.

Hmm. I'll be trying to find a way to sneak up there in the meantime, at least. Maybe someone I know will be attending...

Yeah... we tried to coordinate but couldn't find an available venue. We had flyers in the bags though! Did you get one?

We're playing Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver & Edmonton in 2008. We'll probably do Calgary again also (2 sold out shows last month!). We're also trying to put together shows in Winnipeg & Ottowa.

We've always had amazing turn outs for our Canadian shows and are right about to announce a big partnership with FutureShop!


Tommy

How ya doing, buddy?

Originally Posted by lord-of-shadow

Your flyers were everywhere. I would have been hard-pressed to avoid them if I tried, heh. They were put on every seat before at least one of the keynotes, in piles on a lot of tables, in the tote bags they gave us, and probably a few others places I'm forgetting. I tried making a paper airplane out of one, but sadly it didn't work out too well.

Hehehehehe... well, good to know the marketing train is chugging along!

Hope to meet ya in Montreal!

Any other suggestions on where we should be getting the word out in Montreal? We're hitting all the game stores and Future Shop is our partners and as I'm sure you're aware... they are HUGE (the Best Buy of Canada!) I'm getting the word out to all my friends at UbiSoft Montreal and the promoter will be doing local TV, radio, online and newspaper advertising. The first show is almost sold out just from mailing lists so they are talking about adding a second show the night before.

Any suggestions?


Tommy

How ya doing, buddy?

Originally Posted by Rimo

make sure that your promoter also take advantage of public transport, especially the subway. That's where I come in contact with a large part of my daily dose of overwhelming publicity.

That's an absolutely fantastic idea! I'll pass it along to the promoter immediately! Thanks for the info.

If you see an ad in the subway take a pic for me (and know that the reason it's there is because of you!)



Tommy

This thing is sticky, and I don't like it. I don't appreciate it.

Originally Posted by Dais

Mr. Tallarico, you may have already addressed this elsewhere, but in an interview you gave to enthusiast site n-sider (apparently after a VGL event?), you answered as follows to a question:



Did you ever clarify exactly what you meant by that final statement?

Not sure exactly what you're asking. Could you please clarify.

In regards to my statement, to my knowledge The Terminator on the Sega-CD was the very first video game to ever record a live guitar (not midi samples). It came out in 1993. It was also the first game to ever use 3-D audio (Q-Sound). If you are aware of another game that did this before 1993 please let me know.

Thanks,


Tommy

I am a dolphin, do you want me on your body?

Originally Posted by José

It's been a while since I've run through this thread, and I thought to myself that I don't recall giving thanks for everything that went on at the DC shows during our OCReMix meetup that weekend. So...
Thanks to you guys for the great performance and the great musicians we got to meet, thanks to Tommy and Mike for graciously providing us with a little backstage and behind-the-scenes sneak peeks, and personal thanks from me to you, Tommy, for putting up with all my crap about having to wait so long for a New York show. The page says, "Coming Soon..." I can't wait. I'm wanna organize a big, honking OCR meetup soon as we get a definite date!

Yo Jose....

As promised...

VGL Hits NYC!

Video Games Live | www.videogameslive.com

Tommy

Originally Posted by lord-of-shadow

Wow, somebody outside of the immediate community actually read the interview I conducted. You just made my day, Dais.

You did a great job too! Glad to hear you had so much fun.

For anyone interested, here is the review and interview: N-Sider.com: Video Games Live

The highlight for me was the following paragraph:

"And thus ended the best show I have ever seen. I’ve been to my fair share of concerts and plays, and everything in between, but none can even begin to compare to the fantastic experience that was Video Games Live. If you only visit one live performance in your lifetime, make it this one, because it is, to put it simply, a damn good show. Tallarico, I salute you: your show has made yet another life-long fan, and I can’t wait to see it again. And if any of you get a chance to do the same… You know what to do."


It's one of the quotes we use in our sales sheets to promoters.




Tommy

I was speaking idiomatically.

Hi Ron!,

We're just putting the set-lists together for all of our Jan., Feb. & March shows. I'll make sure we put the Chrono Cross segment in there for you. We currently only have a unique piano arrangement that the Video Game Pianist Martin Leung put together. Eventually we'll do an orchestrated version as well... but we're currently working on the Metroid arrangement and probably won't get a Chrono Cross one done by Feb.

Thanks! Can't wait for you to see the show!!


Tommy

What kind of toxic man-thing is happening now?

Originally Posted by Zephyrin

Don't live in Vegas anymore, otherwise I'd have a show to look forward to.

I'll have to keep an eye on that Boise spot. Though honestly, I don't see much compensation for playing in Idaho.

Hi Zephyrin,

For us, it's not about the compensation, it's about bringing game music to the mainstream masses. Our number one goal for doing this was to show the world how significant, cultural and artistic video games have become to our culture. And not just the music... but the entire industry. This is one of the reasons why we care a lot about the visuals, presentation and fun factor in the show. By doing this we're reaching a wider variety of non-gamers.

Where do you live exactly? We're looking into a lot of places that aren't listed on our site. Let me know what the biggest city around you is and I'll let ya know if we're planning anything.

thanks,


Tommy

FELIPE NO

Originally Posted by trackjacket

Great performance at the Spike TV VGAs. The classic games medley was very well done.
It was a shame they only featured Video Games Live once during the actual show, besides the segues to commercials.

Thanks! I must say... it was pretty cool hearing Samuel L. Jackson thank us and say our names at the end of the show. He was a cool guy! Hanging with the Foo Fighters all day during soundcheck was also cool. Very nice guys.

We received a lot of e-mails asking us why we couldn't have played longer. As I'm sure you can imagine... wasn't up to us at all.

We actually had 2 music segments in the show (Classic Arcade & the Game of the Year) and then took the show back and forth from commericial. You could look at it this way... we got more airtime than Kid Rock.



Overall it was an awesome and fun experience that really raised the bar for us in terms of awareness. Over 6 million people tuned in and our 2008 ticket sales went crazy.



Tommy





Additional Spam:

Originally Posted by Zephyrin

You can say that, but without the funding, there's not going to be a show. Of course, I have no idea what money is like in this kind of business/situation, but yeah.
I'm just saying, bands like Tool which sell out in 10 minutes in Vegas, don't even sell out here. Rough comparison, but still.

I live in Nampa, Idaho. That'd be about 25-30 minutes West of Boise, ID.

Nampa, Idaho!?!?!? Holy crap!! This is weird! We've actually just been working on a promoter offer to play in Nampa, Idaho!! I'm NOT EVEN JOKING!!!!!!!! They contacted us about a month ago!

On on TOUR DATES page (Video Games Live | www.videogameslive.com) you'll notice Boise, ID on the TBA for 2008. We just put Boise because it was the closest big city to Nampa... but we'll actually be playing in Nampa!!

Man! That's just weird!! Out of all the places and cities in the world!

Crazy.

See ya in Nampa in 2008!


Tommy




Additional Spam:

Originally Posted by Greykin

Someone from GFF showed me this, and I'll be more than likely attending your February show in Toronto . This might be a bit late, but were you guys considering putting the Gears of War theme in there somewhere ( Gears of War: Train Ride To Hell )? For some reason I was a bit surprised not to see it on the list of games you cover on the website.

Ah, for your February show in Toronto, could you please add in the Rainbow Six theme for one of the songs you'll be playing? That'd be great!!!
I would suggest playing the StarCraft 2 theme as well, it seems like the Greater Toronto Area is filled with A LOT of Starcraft fans (myself included), so that'd probably go over well haha.

PS: Back when you gave Smash Bros a low score a long time ago on Electric Playground, my hardcore SB friends were outraged, got some very amusing reactions from them, thanks for that haha .

Gears of Wars isn't currently on our list of songs that we play. I'll check out the link you sent. I finished Gears but recall the sound design more than the music. Cliffy B. & Mark R. are good friends of mine... so getting the license and visuals would be no problem. That game got SO intense at times that I probably competely overlooked the score!

For Toronto we won't be playing Rainbow 6 unfortunately... but we WILL be playing StarCraft II! Because we've already played Toronto we're doing a bunch of stuff we didn't do there the first time around (in 2006).

In terms of SSB... I find that most people either love or hate those kinds of games. The same could be said about turn-based Japanese role-playing games as well (and ANY genre really). I just never got into the whole 2-D fighting thing. I never was into Street Fighter either. I was always more of the Tekken kind of guy and have always preferred by fighters in 3-D. Just my own opinion. I respect that SSB is a very loved game and we're even speaking to Nintendo about getting some of the new music into our show!


Tommy




Additional Spam:

Originally Posted by RonaldG

omg

No, seriously, thank you so much for that! Make sure you let us know once Chrono Cross gets the full-on orchestrated treatment - I could easily see myself making a special trip to check that out.

Will do!


T.T.




Additional Spam:

Originally Posted by horseman85

Tickets have been obtained for the show in Montreal. I will see you then!

Awesome!!

The first show sold so well that the promoter has already added a second show.

Video Games Live | www.videogameslive.com


Tommy




Additional Spam:

Originally Posted by Pokey

From your latest post, I understand that your target goal is to reach out to the non-gamer community. However, does this limit you from performing excellent music coming from games such as Vagrant Story, Legacy of Kain, Shadow of the Colossus, Beyond Good & Evil...in other words, cult classics/old-gen games, or even popular games not known for their music (Xenogears, Soul Calibur..)? I'd love to see some themes from Vagrant Story come to life personally, considering it was Sakimoto's hardest work...but I understand why since it's a dead game anyway.

PS: Calgary for 2008! We loved you, as evident by the fact that VGL was on the front page of the entertainment section of the news.

Absolutely!! In fact I believe we're the only game concert that has ever played Beyond Good & Evil (one of my personal favorite games of all time!) One of my own scores (Advent Rising) is also commonly placed in the "game didn't sell but the soundtrack was good" category.

We always try to get one or two of these into each performance. We also do the music from Headhunter which in my opinion is some of the best ever written. Definitely looking into Shadow of the Colossus! Another one of my favorite games of all time (and ICO as well!).

Could someone point me to some of their favorite SotC tunes? I need to order the soundtrack... going to do that now... what are some of the more popular tunes?

That was a cool piece in the Calgary paper!! We spend LOTS of money on PR & Marketing when we go into a market (especially a new one). Luckily we have some great exclusive partners and sponsors like Future Shop up in Canada. It was one of the big lessons we learned when we tried launching Video Games Live big in 2005. Just having game publisher e-mail lists and some flyers in stores isn't enough. We spend tens of thousands of dollars in marketing, advertising & PR in every location we visit. It's things like that that we feel is money well spent in continuing to help raise awareness for game music around the world! An e-mail from a game company is one thing... but a front page of a newspaper or a 7 minute segment on BBC 1, or a feature in Wired or Spike TV really gets the non-gamers and mainstream public to recognize and be aware of the wonderful music we all love.


Tommy

Additional Spam:

Originally Posted by klonopin

Neat sites and music. I love listening to these kinds of things. Please keep up the good work.

Thanks for the kind words of encouragement! Will do!!


Tommy




Additional Spam:

Originally Posted by Hamu-Sumo

Hey Tommy, read yesterday the announcement for VGL as opening concert for 2008's Games Convention in Leipzig. 7000 seats, could be a great thing!

My question is if it's planned to do an usual show or something special. I would miss some surprises made by the composers themselves like Michiru Yamane's organ pipe solo this year. Can you a little bit talk about it?

Yeah! We're really proud that the Games Convention has asked us to be a part of their event! I guess they saw our show in San Francisco at the Game Developers Conference earlier this year and wanted us to start playing their convention as well.

Here is the announcement from our site: Video Games Live | www.videogameslive.com

And it also looks like our good friend Chris Huelsbeck is also doing a symphonic show in Cologne a few days after ours! I'm totally going to stick around for that!! Can't wait to check it out. Looks like it's going to be a GREAT week for game music in Germany!!

We're also currently planning 4 other major cities in Germany.

We haven't thought about our the setlist for our Leipzig show just yet because throughout the year we'll be adding to our setlist and don't want to sell ourselves short by deciding on the exact show right now. However!! I can tell you that this will be a VERY special show for us considering the convention and the venue/promotor and we'll be "pulling out all the stops" (as they say) to ensure that the material and special guests involved will be unique and special. Just like we did with Miyamoto & Koji Kondo in San Fran earlier this year or with Akira (Silent Hill), Yuichi Asami (DDR) and IGA (Castlevania) at the EForAll game convention in LA.

Check out some of the special guests we had at some of our game convention shows this year:

San Fran (GDC 2007): Video Games Live | www.videogameslive.com

LA (EForAll 2007): Video Games Live | www.videogameslive.com

London (London Games Festival 2007): Video Games Live | www.videogameslive.com

Playing at an actual game convention gives us the unique opportunity to have many more special guests and special performances. Leipzig will be no different!

Also important to note... as big and prestigious as all of our meet & greets have always been... we have never once (and never will) charge extra or a premium for people to take part in meeting our special guests. If you attend the show... you can certainly attend the meet & greet afterwards.


Tommy

What, you don't want my bikini-clad body?

Originally Posted by Prime Blue

I'm disappointed that the Sixth Symphonic Game Music Concert will be replaced by a Video Games Live show.

Not to sound rude or anything, I appreciate the work you're doing, Tommy.
But it's just that I totally loved the atmosphere the Gewandhaus conveyed. The dim light, the cross between modern and classic architecture, the perfect acoustics, a more than professional orchestra (in addition to the professional solo-performers) - all that made these wonderful experiences for me and I absolutely object to the idea of these concert series being changed to a big stadium event.

...is a definite downgrade for me.

This evening should be about video game music, and video game music only. The moderator giving newsflashs about football results was slightly annoying last year, but destroying the whole concert by including fancy light effects, showing cutscenes and hundreds of people yelling and laughing in the midst of an orchestra performance is too much for me to handle.

This announcement really gave me a heartache. GC in Concert used to be the year's highlight for me. I know a lot of people have a different opinion than I do, but should this really be like the other VGL shows and not take place in the Gewandhaus, I will not attend the event and am saddened that the Symphonic Game Music Concert series by Thomas Böcker is dead.


An unrelated note: It seems to me like 7000 seats are far too much for such an event. The tickets of last year's concert were cheaper than this year's and still only little more than half of the seats in the Gewandhaus - approximately 1000 - were taken. The 2006 concert was sold out but back then, tickets only cost ~€15.

Yo Prime Blue,

Just a couple of quick comments...

I don't think anyone has said or suggested that Thomas Boeckers' Symphonic Game Music Concert is dead by any means. I certainly hope not. Thomas' show was a trailblazing experience for all of Europe and he was one of the first to prove to the rest of the world that game concerts could most certainly survive outside of Japan.

As Hamu-Sumo suggested... I believe the Huelsbeck concert is being produced by him.

Quite frankly, there was even some talk this year at one point about having one show at the beginning/launch of Games Convention 2007 and the other one at the end. Thomas and I spoke about this over e-mail but I think we both felt that it may be a little too confusing to have two shows at the same exact convention... maybe in the future this would work when both shows are a little more established? That may be cool.

I certainly hope we get the opportunity to help promote the Huelsbeck concert at our show and to our fans/mailing lists, etc. And hopefully they would be interested in doing the same for us.

I'm sorry that you feel the way you do about VGL without ever having experienced it for yourself. I think you may be selling the overall experience a little short and hopefully by the time the concert rolls around and we've made all of our special announcements that you'll want to come and check it out.

btw... have you ever seen the VOICES concert that Uematsu put on in Japan (with Arnie Roth conducting). I have the DVD and they use lots of amazing lighting, video, special effects, etc. I (like Uematsu) believe that these visuals really help to enhance the concert experience and widen the audience for game music for people who may have normally never have come to listen.

I understand your preference for wanting something different and I would certainly never try to convince you otherwise. I have always said that the great thing about multiple concerts being out there is that there are multiple ways that game music is being presented. I think that's wonderful for our industry and shows how far game music and the industry has become.

We don't believe 7,000 seats are far too much if it is marketed properly (and not just to hardcore game music fans). We have had at least 5 or 6 shows where we have done in the vincinity of 5,000 - 10,000+. The energy and excitement level from the crowd is pretty electric at some of those shows. I'm sure it will be quite a challenge to try and fill every seat during the very first time entering into a new area for us. But I believe it helps to send a certain message that game music is growing and becoming bigger... just like having it at a very fancy and high-class venue sends certain positive messages as well. We do both all the time. I believe by not having it at the same exact venue as Thomas' concert will help to further differentiate each of the shows... which I believe is good for both shows! Maybe we'll end up only selling 1,000 tickets. We would still consider that a success considering this would be our first time in Germany. It takes a lot of time, energy and money in new markets to start to build a fan base. Germany will be no different.

Thanks for your honest comments. I totally respect your point of view and hope you may reconsider giving Video Games Live a chance.



Tommy

Jam it back in, in the dark.

Originally Posted by Mithrandir

I got my tickets for Montreal!

At last I will get to see this amazing show. Thanks Tommy to you and all your team for making all of this possible. It's a rare occasion for me to go see this kind of event near my town.

Cool! Cant wait for you to see the show! I'll see ya in Feb!

Make sure to come up and say hi at the meet & greet and tell me you're from Gamingforce.


Tommy




Additional Spam:

Originally Posted by The GreyFox

Ottawa! Ottawa! Ottawa! Ottawa!

You said Tommy it was a possibility for 2007 but now we're in 2008! Any luck with finding the time and venue for all of us here yet? Thanks!

Nothing official right now but I can tell you that we're currently speaking to people in both Ottawa and Winnipeg because they were the two most requested cities in Canada that we have yet to perform in.

We'll be getting there in 2008 for sure. Just don't know the exact dates yet.

Please make sure to sign up to our mailing list on the front page of our website (www.videogameslive.com) so you'll receive all the latest info and special offers before anyone.

thanks.


Tommy

There's nowhere I can't reach.

Originally Posted by Turbo

There's a meet and greet? Is it an extra or can anyone with tickets come up and say hi. Just another gamingforce guy wanting to offer thanks for the show

All of our meet & greets are free and open to any ticket holder after the show.

See ya there!


Tommy

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