Up in Clarkesville!
Power-up video games in concert
The Gateway Chamber Orchestra is inviting Middle Tennessee audiences to press start on a new kind of concert experience this spring.
The orchestra will present a unique video game-themed performance, Power Up: Video Games in Concert, at Mabry Concert Hall on the campus of Austin Peay State University. The 60-minute performance promises a symphonic journey from console to concert hall, along with gameplay visuals and live narration by GCO musicians.
Designed as an immersive, family-friendly event, Power Up is created especially for children from 10 to 18, but invites gaming enthusiasts of all ages. The concert highlights the artistry and depth behind some of today’s most beloved video game scores. Audiences can expect music from titles including Star Wars: Outlaws, Journey, The Baby in Yellow, Octopath Traveller II, Hollow Knight: Silksong, and Walkabout Mini Golf.
Under the direction of incoming 2025–2026 Music Director Jacob Aaron Schnitzer, the orchestra will bring these scores to life with new orchestral arrangements by GCO cellist Andrew Dunn, blending nostalgic melodies with sweeping cinematic orchestrations. Schnitzer notes that the ensemble’s strong ties to the Nashville recording scene give the musicians a unique connection to the world of game music.
“Through their work in the Nashville recording scene, the GCO musicians have a special connection to the world of video game music,” said Schnitzer. “We are lucky that through direct relationships with leading composers… we can produce this special concert and bring audiences closer to the artistic soul of video game music.”
Those composer connections include acclaimed figures such as Austin Wintory, Wilbert Roget II, Eddie Marianukroh, Chris Reyman and Virginia Leo.
Power Up aims to offer educational insight into the role of music in gaming beyond the performance. A commentary written by GCO oboist Diana Dunn will explore how scores help shape setting, character development, and emotional resonance in video games, which often go unnoticed but are essential to immersive gameplay.
Known for concerts described as “magical” and “virtuosity-filled,” the Gateway Chamber Orchestra has built a national reputation since its 2008 debut. The Clarksville-based ensemble is comprised of leading symphony players, recording musicians and college faculty. Their goal is to continue to expand their reach while serving the Middle Tennessee community.
The performance will be held at Mabry Concert Hall on Sunday, March 8, 2026. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit GCO’s website at https://www.gatewaychamberorchestra.com/.
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Nastassja is a Hong Kong native who called Boston home for 7 years. She graduated with a BS in Journalism from Emerson College and is currently located in Fort Smith, Arkansas. When she isn’t writing or reading, you can find her crocheting and spending time with her husband, dog, and two cats.
