There’s something enchanting about the hush that falls just before the first note of a concert—the promise of something beautiful, unexpected, and extraordinary. On May 17th, at Taylor’s Lakeside Campus, the Taylor’s Symphony Orchestra (TSO) turned that promise into reality with Press Start: Symphony Mode—a video game-themed concert that didn’t just play music; it transported its audience through worlds of fantasy, nostalgia, and high-stakes heroism.

From pixelated classics to sweeping modern epics, every piece on the setlist was a gateway to a virtual universe, brought vividly to life by a full symphony orchestra. It was, simply put, a gamer’s dream… in symphonic form.

At the heart of TSO’s success of the night stood Sunny Chew Hwai Sun, the orchestra’s Founder and Principal Conductor, and Kok Jia Herng, its dedicated student conductor.

“Music is part of your life—don’t stop making music wherever you go.” Sunny Chew quoted. Sunny, who co-founded TSO in 2008, is entirely self-taught—having learned to conduct through masterclasses, observation, and a deep love for music. With 16 years on the podium, he continues to lead with a belief that music is for everyone.

Alongside him, Jia Herng brought youthful precision and heart. A clarinetist and pianist with over a decade of experience, he handled multiple pieces with elegance and control, proving himself a rising talent with a passion for classical expression.

Together, the duo led the orchestra through a dynamic program filled with emotional highs, chilling moments, and joyful nostalgia.

The concert opened with the quirky chaos of the Plants vs. Zombies Suite, setting a playful and dramatic tone. From there, the journey spanned across gaming generations:

Projected visuals danced behind the orchestra—iconic scenes, glimmering animations, and familiar faces that helped bring each world to life. But the real storytelling didn’t only come from the screen—it came from the stage.

A brief intermission followed—a bathroom break and breath of fresh air before the concert dove deeper into darker, more dramatic realms. 

Conductor and orchestra moved as one, their chemistry palpable. It was evident that this was more than just performance—it was passion. Every crescendo mimicked a level-up; every diminuendo, a moment of silent awe. The music didn’t just play about games—it played like a game, taking the audience through battles, heartbreaks, victories, and quiet moments of wonder.

Besides the projected visuals, what made Press Start: Symphony Mode truly immersive wasn’t just the music—it was the visual storytelling. Many TSO members came dressed to theme:

• The percussionists wore sunflower petal headpieces, echoing Plants vs. Zombies
• Brass players donned Pokémon headbands, bouncing with every note
• Several string players cosplayed as Genshin Impact characters, flowing capes, big bows, and all

It was whimsical, immersive, and undeniably fun—proof that TSO knows how to play in every sense of the word.

As the Super Mario Bros. Medley wrapped, the hall erupted. “Encore! Encore! Encore!” The chant grew louder, until the orchestra returned triumphantly for an electrifying encore: Undertale’s Megalovania. The performance was relentless, chaotic, and glorious—like the final boss battle of your favorite game. The crowd whooped and whistled. Controllers weren’t needed—just applause.

One of the most magical elements of the night was the audience. A mix of students, families, video gamers, and music aficionados, they were a living testament to how video game music bridges generations and genres. There were gasps of recognition at the opening notes of familiar tunes, quiet chuckles during quirky interludes, and applause that burst forth like critical hit animations.

Between pieces, murmurs of “I used to play this with my brother,” or “That’s from my favorite dungeon level!” floated through the air. People didn’t just listen—they relived. This was more than entertainment—it was a tribute to childhoods, to stories played out in virtual realms, now relived through real instruments.

The evening ended with hugs, bouquets, and proud families—one even booking an entire row to cheer on their loved one. Students, families, and fans snapped endless photos with instruments, props, and one another, the post-concert atmosphere as joyful and vibrant as the music itself.

No concert is complete without merch, and Press Start: Symphony Mode delivered with its quirky, limited-edition keychain series: The Quacks. These ducky tributes to video game characters stole hearts and wallets alike:

Press Start: Symphony Mode wasn’t just a concert. It was a cultural crossover event, a bold and beautiful experiment in storytelling, where the lines between virtual and reality blurred in the best way possible. TSO proved that video game music belongs on the concert stage—right alongside Mozart, Tchaikovsky, and Mahler. Because these soundtracks? They’ve scored our lives. And on this unforgettable evening, those melodies came alive, not from speakers, but from passion and instruments.

While Press Start: Symphony Mode may have ended with thunderous applause and a heartfelt standing ovation, this isn’t the end of TSO’s journey. In fact, it’s only the beginning of Level Two.

Taylor’s Symphony Orchestra is said to return in October 2025 for their annual concert, and if Press Start: Symphony Mode was any indication, you’ll want to clear your calendar for what’s coming next. Follow their adventures on Instagram: @t.symphonyorchestra

Whether you’re a music lover, or simply curious, take it from us—you don’t want to miss their next boss battle.