Video Games and Classical Music

What sort of relationship do video games and classical music share? Join host Liz Lyon for an exploration of video-game music and how it has developed a deep relationship with classical music. Episode 82 playlistKoji Kondo: Super Mario Brothers Theme — This was originally composed for the 1985 Nintendo Entertainment System video game Super Mario Brothers. Sound designer Koji Kondo says he found this piece to be the most difficult to compose. This version of the theme is performed by the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.LISTEN — Koji Kondo: Super Mario Brothers ThemeYoko Shimomura: Kingdom Hearts, Hikari — Yoko Shimomura is a Japanese composer and pianist. She has written for video games such as the Mario & Luigi series as well as Final Fantasy XV, but she is best known for writing the music for the video game Kingdom Hearts. Here is a popular piece from that game performed by the New Japanese Philharmonic Orchestra.LISTEN — Yoko Shimomura: Kingdom Hearts, HikariClaude Debussy: Claire de Lune — Video-game music is often used to help set the mood and provide insight into the specific game. Those who know the game The Evil Within, a game for older teens and adults, also know that when they hear Claire de Lune, by Claude Debussy, within the game, safety is nearby.LISTEN — Claude Debussy: Claire de LuneYou can now search and listen to YourClassical Adventures where podcasts are found.Explore more from YourClassical Adventures!What are you curious about?You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.