The Butler County Symphony Orchestra’s season opener, “Video Games at the Symphony,” on Saturday, Oct. 5, was a memorable blend of symphonic music and pop culture.

Conducted by Moon Doh, associate conductor of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and one of three finalists for Butler County Symphony Orchestra’s music director position, the concert featured an eclectic program with a wide array of video game themes.

The program featured popular video game scores from “The Legend of Zelda,” “Super Mario Brothers,” “Final Fantasy,” “Castlevania,” “Halo Reach” and more, which the orchestra remarkably performed. The symphony’s approach made each piece feel both fresh and nostalgic, creating a bridge between the classical and the contemporary that kept everyone engaged.

As the concert progressed, Doh encouraged the audience to let loose and enjoy themselves, inviting them to sing along and immerse themselves fully in the music. This playful attitude was on full display when he put on a Mario hat for the “Super Mario Brothers” theme. But the standout moment came during “The Legend of Zelda” suite when Doh swapped his baton for a sword — a fittingly “legendary” touch during the performance. It was a humorous nod to the game that invoked laughs and applause, illustrating Doh’s ability to balance professionalism with an approachable, engaging demeanor.

The “Video Games Live Suite” was performed with such emotional depth that it felt like a direct portal into the game. Doh’s conducting highlighted both the intensity and tenderness of the piece, showing the true depth and emotion of the piece. The “Halo” suite was another standout, with the strings, brass, and percussion sections creating a cinematic experience that mirrored the game’s epic feel.

The concert was not just about music; it was about connecting with the community. During intermission, the orchestra hosted a costume contest. Separate contests for adults and youth brought out creative costumes from all corners of video game fandom. A young attendee won the youth category dressed as a character from “Fortnite,” while the adult prize went to a concertgoer who dressed in a nostalgic “Ms. Pac-Man” costume.

In a particularly engaging moment, Doh asked attendees to raise their hands if they were first-time concertgoers, and an impressive number of hands went up.

The concert attracted many families and children, illustrating that the theme had reached a broader, more diverse audience. Thus, proving the success of the orchestra’s efforts to engage younger audiences and newcomers, displaying its commitment to keeping symphonic music vibrant and accessible for future generations.

As a finalist for the orchestra’s music director position, Doh’s performance highlighted his potential to lead the orchestra into a new era. His innovative approach seems to align with the symphony’s goals of reaching younger audiences and ensuring that symphonic music remains relevant in an evolving cultural landscape. By embracing themes that resonate with today’s youth, the orchestra is setting the stage for a vibrant future that appeals to a wide range of listeners.

Butler County Symphony Orchestra’s season opener was not only a success as a concert but also as a community event that engaged a new generation of symphony-goers. Doh’s leadership, paired with the orchestra’s commitment to innovation, created an experience that transcended the traditional concert format, paving the way for a dynamic future where symphonic music continues to thrive in Butler County.