The Manchester Video Game Orchestra at RNCM

Johnny James, Managing Editor

The Manchester Video Game Orchestra at Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM), Manchester 13 February 2022 Tickets from £18.00 — Book now

Where would Mario be without his immortal, 8-bit theme tune? The Grand Theft Auto series without its alternative radio station soundtrack? What’s become clear over the relatively short time video games have existed is the huge part that soundtracks play in the gaming experience, from nostalgic ’80s chiptune to the blockbuster-level sounds of contemporary releases. Music is a tool that can control emotion and can establish the tone of the story unravelling on the screen, and as technologies advance, soundtracks only become a more integral part of the experience.

These are all things that Josh Mancell knows well. The Los Angeles-based composer has created music for a number of multi-million unit selling video game franchises, including Crash Bandicoot and Jak & Daxter. Who better, then, to give us insights into the craft of composing for video games, than Mancell himself, while The Manchester Video Game Orchestra perform an eclectic array of soundtracks to games you likely know and love, from the aforementioned Crash Bandicoot to Skyrim to Battlefield 2.

The Manchester Video Game Orchestra and their founder/conductor Tom Hillary aim to introduce new audiences to the world of video game music through live orchestral performance – in doing so, giving video game composers the credit and recognition that they deserve. From console to concert hall, don’t miss the opportunity to hear the soundtracks of your childhood like you’ve never heard them before at the RNCM on 13 February.

Tickets for this concert, which forms part of the RNCM’s Early Spring Season, are on sale now via the button below.

Where to go near The Manchester Video Game Orchestra at RNCM

Manchester
Restaurant
San Carlo Fumo

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Utility Gift Shop
Manchester
Shop
Utility Gift Shop

Utility Gift Shop on Oxford Road is all about products that are new, unique, quirky and cool. High street shopping at its best.

exterior of Contact Theatre building
Manchester
Theatre
Contact Theatre

Following a major redevelopment, the iconic venue on Oxford Road will be reopening its doors to welcome the public back into the building this autumn. 

The Salutation pub in Manchester
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Bar or Pub
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This traditional boozer, surrounded by imposing flats and university buildings, was taken over by Trof (of the Deaf Institute fame). The Sally, as the regulars call it, hosts an energetic, arty crowd – and its recently expanded outside area is another good reason to visit.

Manchester
University
MMU Student Union

Manchester Metropolitan University Students’ Union building houses a bar and various other facilities for students and staff.

Manchester
Music venue
The Deaf Institute

The Deaf Institute is a vibrant gig venue and nightclub for which it is well worth taking a jaunt out of the Northern Quarter.

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