Epilogue 1 / Epilogue 2 (Lydie's Theme Variation) - Castlevania: Harmony of Dissonance

"Epilogue 1" 0:00
"Epilogue 2 (Lydie's Theme Variation)" 2:22

arr. 2 violins, 2/1 violas, 1 'cello (or string orchestra w.o. bass)

Two of the most individual pieces from one of the most individual video games. The original 8-bit incarnation definitely lends itself to a string arrangement, with the long sustained notes and expressive melodies, and contrapuntal involvement. Hokkai definitely wrote a lot of 'string-like' pieces, including the non-8 bit title and credits scenes from the same game, and in Aria of Sorrow (forthcoming). With all the sophistication in video game music these days, it's sobering to be reminded of pieces like these, where the driving force was harmonic invention (this is a rather extreme example), rather than an exploitation of production values. I don't think you will encounter anything like this in a video game ever again.

If you would like the string parts and/or would like to perform this, message me.

Composer: Sōshirō Hokkai
Game: Castlevania: Harmony of Dissonance
Platform: Game Boy Advance
Year: 2002