In August 2021, the European Union launched a Creative Europe initiative targeting “Pan-European cultural entities”—in this case, orchestras—aimed at providing training, professional development, and performance opportunities for young, highly talented artists.
For FAME’s, a music production company in Skopje, Macedonia, active since 2007 and specialising in symphonic film music recording, this was a unique chance to expand its mission to foster young talent. FAME’s, which has been operating from a state-of-the-art studio facility since 2017, seized the opportunity to promote emerging artists.
The project proposal from FAME’s, denominated FAME’s Institute, focused on broadening the musical horizons of music performance students from European higher music institutions. It introduced them to repertoires beyond the traditional symphonic classics, training them to perform a diverse range of genres. Through masterclasses, orchestral projects, and workshops, the project exposed students not only to film music but also to hybrid forms that merge elements of jazz, rock, folk, ethnic, and electronic music, along with music for video games and digital media.
The AEC is proud to partner in this project and has shared updates on its successful progress in the September 2023 newsletter and on the AEC website. Leveraging AEC’s extensive network has helped raise awareness of this unique project, fostering a cycle of continuous improvement: as the project gained recognition, the quality of performances in orchestral projects increased, attracting Europe’s most talented music students to participate in FAME’s programs.
The sixth and final phase of this ongoing project took place last summer, culminating in a concert titled “A Journey through Video Game Music” on September 25, warmly received by a full audience at the Kolarac Concert Hall in Belgrade, Serbia. The FAME’s Institute orchestra, led by renowned Los Angeles-based composer Austin Wintory, performed both Wintory’s own compositions and a selection of celebrated video game music.
In contrast to previous updates on the FAME’s project, today we feature insights from a project participant, Latvian flautist Beate Matvejeva.
“Participating in the 6th FAME’s seminar in Skopje was an incredible experience, and I had the privilege of being involved in two different yet exciting projects. The video game project mentioned above was preceded by my participation in the Silent Movie Project, led by Georgian conductor Mirian Khukhunaishvili. We performed live to Alfred Hitchcock’s classic film Blackmail at the Silent and Classical Film Festival in Skopje. This was my first time performing with a silent movie. Ensuring the music matched the film’s scenes and mood was a truly memorable experience.
As a fan of both film and game music, it was exciting to perform pieces I had only heard in video games before and to discover new soundtracks. We had great support during rehearsals, and before Austin Wintory arrived, we worked with Tim Redmond, who conducted us and shared invaluable knowledge about the world of studio work with orchestras, and how to work with a click track. He also shared his experiences in the world of professional recording. His insights into both the music and the industry were immensely helpful.
Working with Austin Wintory was a true honour. Not only did we get to perform under his direction, but we also played some of his own compositions. Performing his piece from Journey live was an unforgettable experience for me as a long-time fan.
Performing in Serbia was another highlight. The hall was packed with people who deeply appreciate the world of video games. Their enthusiasm created such an energetic atmosphere. It was incredible to see how profoundly some audience members were moved as if they were reliving their gaming memories through the music. Watching their emotional reactions made the performance even more meaningful. It really demonstrated the powerful connection between video game music and its fans.
Being part of the FAME’s seminar and gaining such hands-on experience was a true pleasure. FAME’s offers something truly unique. It’s rare to find a place where young musicians can work in a professional recording studio with an orchestra and learn in such a real-world setting. This opportunity has left a lasting impression on me, and I believe it is a fantastic stepping stone for anyone aspiring to work in this field.
I feel the utmost gratitude to the whole team at FAME’s for this opportunity and all the wonderful people I worked with in the orchestra.”
