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Orchestral Adventures: Behind the Scenes of the Video Games Live Concert

Happy Friday, Quad Cities! Join us for another exciting episode of "What's Happening QC," your go-to culture guide curated by Quad Citizens for Quad Citizens, and proudly brought to you by Seifert Building Supplies. In this week’s episode, host Marc Zyla welcomes the talented conductor Hisham Bravo Groover to discuss an extraordinary upcoming event—a video game concert that promises to be a breathtaking fusion of music and interactive entertainment.

But what exactly is a video game concert? Hisham reveals how this unique performance will blend iconic gameplay and cutscenes with live orchestral music, featuring over a hundred musicians from the Quad City Symphony Orchestra. With a diverse lineup that includes legendary titles like Castlevania, Halo, Kingdom Hearts, and The Last of Us, the concert aims to evoke nostalgia and excitement for gamers of all ages. Discover how music enhances storytelling in video games and the meticulous preparation that goes into conducting a performance where timing and emotion are paramount.

Also in this episode, we take a moment to reflect on the recent Side by Side concert, a heartwarming showcase of student growth and achievement. Hisham shares insights into the invaluable experiences that young musicians gain from performing alongside seasoned professionals, highlighting the transformative impact of these educational opportunities. Plus, get a sneak peek into the upcoming performances and concerts that you won’t want to miss, including Tchaikovsky’s iconic Fourth Symphony and a special feature with emerging young talent.

As we wrap up this episode, Marc and Hisham also touch on personal milestones and what the summer holds for them. Whether you're a music lover, a gamer, or simply curious about the vibrant arts scene in the Quad Cities, this episode is packed with engaging discussions and exciting updates. Tune in and get ready to explore the cultural tapestry of our community—because there’s always something happening in the QC!

https://qcso.org/event/video-games/

Marc Zyla joined WVIK, Quad Cities NPR in May 2022 as the Director of Community Engagement. Prior to that Zyla had been the Director of Education and Community Engagement with the Quad City Symphony Orchestra, where he continues to perform as Principal Horn. Zyla believes that there is something for everyone in public radio and brings passion and creativity to his position as Director of Community Engagement.