San Francisco USA
Written By Sason Bishope Parry
Last night, Saturday, June 1st, Davies Hall was nothing short of a portal to the fantastical realms of Final Fantasy as the SF Symphony, joined by the SF Symphony Chorus, presented an extraordinary performance of “Distant Worlds: Music from Final Fantasy.” Fans of the legendary video game series and classical music aficionados alike were treated to an evening brimming with enchantment, nostalgia, and sheer musical brilliance, celebrating over 35 years of Final Fantasy.
Davies Hall is always a fun and exciting affair before shows and during intermissions, where fans mingle, take in the ambience, possibly a drink or two, and talk about San Francisco’s favourite orchestra. This night was no different as we geared up for a night of fantasy and imagination. The concert commenced with the iconic “Prelude,” its ethereal arpeggios instantly enveloping the audience in the rich tapestry of Final Fantasy’s musical legacy.
Grammy Award-winning conductor Arnie Roth brought his A Game as he led the SF Symphony and chorus – over 100 musicians on stage performing with finesse and drawing the audience into a world where magic and melody intertwine seamlessly. From the tender strains of “Don’t Be Afraid” from Final Fantasy VII to the exhilarating “Saber’s Edge” from Final Fantasy XIII, each piece was a masterclass in symphonic storytelling through music, bringing the incredible musical scores of Nobuo Uematsu to life. The orchestra’s lush harmonies and the chorus’s soaring vocals combined to evoke powerful emotions, transporting the audience through the highs and lows of the beloved game series.
Adding to the immersive experience were vivid HD visuals from game developers SQUARE ENIX, which were projected onto giant screens throughout the concert. The visuals synchronized perfectly with the music, conjuring up a feeling of enchanted euphoria as the fan’s eyes were glued to the massive screens. Scenes of epic quests, majestic landscapes, and unforgettable characters danced across the screen, enhancing the emotional depth of the performance and making the audience feel like active participants in the fantastical and epic journey.
A powerful and exciting highlight of the evening was the “Battle Medley” from Final Fantasy I through VI, which elicited thunderous applause. The lively tunes dedicated to the series’ brought a playful energy to the hall and young and old fans alike. The chorus added an extra layer and spirited performance, keeping fans on edge and making this segment a crowd favourite. The perfect medley and musical energy to end the first half and allow fans to let the thrilling music flow through their entire being during intermission.
The second half was just as engaging and fun from the fantastic and energetic renditions of “Apocalypsis Noctis” from Final Fantasy XV to “The Final Day” from Final Fantasy XIV, fans were moving in their seats and nodding with approval. The evening concluded with the “Final Fantasy Main Theme,” a grand and sweeping piece that encapsulated the essence of the entire series. The orchestra and chorus together created a soundscape so majestic and emotive that the audience was left in awe, rising to their feet in a prolonged and enthusiastic standing ovation and asking for more. The symphony and Roth obliged with one final encore of the delightful “One Winged Angel, from Final Fantasy VII, bringing the crowd to its feet one last time and ending the night on a high note.
The addition of the SF Symphony Chorus elevated the concert to new heights and blissful grandeur. Their powerful and harmonious voices enriched many of the scores, infusing the dramatic composition with an intense, almost otherworldly energy that sent chills down the spines of everyone present. “Distant Worlds: Music from Final Fantasy” with the SF Symphony and Chorus was more than a concert; it was an enchanting voyage through the music that has defined a generation of gamers and music lovers, including me.
The entire performance was a celebration spanning over 35 years of Final Fantasy and the powerful compositions of the amazing Nobuo Uematsu. The SF Symphony delivered on every note, and all in attendance were taken on a magical journey through music and animated memories that none of us will soon forget. It was a night of joy, nostalgia, and pure enchantment that left everyone dreaming of distant worlds and looking forward to more musical adventures – Most of all, it was a night to remember and another fantastic performance by our beloved SF Symphony!
For more info on the SF Symphony go to: www.sfsymphony.org
