Video game and music fans alike can both be impressed with the current tour of the Legend of Zelda: Symphony of the Goddesses Master Quest. In its third iteration, the show produces beautiful music that is orchestrated masterfully as well as stunning visuals from all the Legend of Zelda games from the first one to the most recent. The shows in Austin, TX were especially remarkable, because the evening show was completely sold out, convincing organizers to add a second, afternoon show.
With excitement and anticipation building, the show started on a lighter note. The crowd was able to send tweets and pictures to the screen on the stage, so some messages were very entertaining. When the show actually started, there was a recorded voice that kept repeating erroneously. That got the crowd laughing. Later the producer Jason Michael Paul came on stage to say a few words about the show. The crowd really got excited when they announced that Zelda creator Shigeru Miyamoto would make an appearance but it ended up only being a video appearance that was previously recorded.
Musically, the show was amazing. Beginning with an overture, the orchestra then launched into a dark and exploratory “Gerudo Valley”. Other highlights included the “Boss Battle Medley” featuring the gripping music that ended the final battle sequence in Ocarina of Time. In the second act the harpists stood out as they played the magical beginning notes of the “Great Fairy Fountain Theme”.
The encore included a “Majora’s Mask Medley” that was well received by the crowd. Over the course of the night, the orchestra hit every single note that really touched the fans. Interestingly enough the musicians are all local which means they have usually one night to practice and rehearse together. When they play together, they sound like they have been rehearsing for years. Not surprising as they are all classically trained musicians.
The crowd was a pleasure itself. There was a very eclectic mix that attended this show. There were the diehard fans that dressed up in full cosplay (costume play) to represent their favorite characters from the series, including some of the more obscure ones. There were casual fans that were all ages, ranging from high school level students to older adults. There were little children who were attending with their parents as well. All came to enjoy the music, and that made it all the more special. There are a lot more dates this fall and those dates can be seen here.
Do yourself a favor and check out this symphony. You don’t have to be a Zelda nerd or even a video game fan. To go and to be able to hear and experience the music of the series is a treat that should not be missed.
ACT I
Overture
Gerudo Valley
Boss Battle Medley
Suite from Majora’s Mask
A Link Between Worlds
Prelude: The Creating of Hyrule
Ocarina of Time (Movement)
The Wind Waker (movement)
ACT II
Intermezzo Great Fairy’s Fountain
Twilight Princess (movement)
Time of the Falling Rain (movement)
Finale
ENCORE
Ballad of the Goddess
Dragon Roost Island
Majora’s Mask Medley
