Aberdeen, S.D. – The Aberdeen University-Civic Symphony (AUCS) is preparing to present “Level Up: An Epic Video Games Pops Concert” on February 28, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. In the Johnson Fine Arts Center Jewett Theater at Northern State University. The concert, a centerpiece of the orchestra’s 106th season, promises an immersive experience for audiences, transporting them into the sonic landscapes of beloved video games like Super Mario and The Legend of Zelda. This unique performance reflects a growing appreciation for video game music as a legitimate art form and aims to broaden the appeal of orchestral music to new listeners.
The AUCS, the oldest continuous orchestra in South Dakota, attracts musicians not only from Aberdeen but too from neighboring states including Minnesota, North Dakota and Iowa. The orchestra’s longevity speaks to its deep roots within the community and its commitment to providing a platform for both students and experienced musicians to collaborate and perform. Christopher Stanichar, assistant professor of music at Northern State University and the orchestra’s 17th conductor, will lead the ensemble through a program designed to celebrate the artistry of video game composers. Stanichar has served as the AUCS music director since 2018 and also directs the Worthington Area Symphony Orchestra in Southwest Minnesota since 2010, according to Northern State University’s website.
A Concert for Gamers and Music Lovers Alike
“Level Up” isn’t just a concert; it’s a recognition of the cultural impact of video game music. The repertoire, featuring themes from games like World of Witchcraft, has captivated generations with its memorable melodies and epic scope. By bringing these scores to the concert hall, the AUCS aims to honor the creativity of the composers and introduce a wider audience to the power of orchestral arrangements. The concert will also feature a pre-concert conversation from 6:45 to 7:15 p.m. In the Johnson Fine Arts Center Berggren Recital Hall, offering attendees a deeper dive into the music and its origins.
Student Showcases and a Fundraising Finale
Adding to the excitement, the concert will showcase the talents of two Northern State University students who emerged as winners of this year’s Northern State University Concerto/Aria Competition. Ember Geist, a junior majoring in music education with a minor in musical theatre, will perform Luigi Arditi’s “Il Bacio.” Geist has been involved in several musical theatre productions, including a role as Sister Berthe in The Sound of Music, and participates in ensembles like Concert Choir and Chamber Singers. She studies voice with Dr. Darci Bultema, professor of voice at Northern State University. Axton Johnson, a sophomore majoring in music education, will also take the stage with a trumpet performance. Johnson is actively involved in multiple instrumental ensembles, including the AUCS, Symphonic Band, and Jazz Ensemble, and serves as a NAfME mentor, AUCS student representative, and fine arts senator for the university’s Student Government Association. He studies with Dr. Grant Manhart, professor of trumpet at Northern State University.
The evening will also include a unique element: the culmination of the orchestra’s inaugural “Battle for the Baton” fundraising competition. Either Dan Cleberg or Travis Schaunaman, the two finalists, will have the opportunity to conduct a selection with the orchestra during the performance. This event not only raises funds for the AUCS but also provides a valuable learning experience for aspiring conductors.
A Legacy of Music in Aberdeen
The Aberdeen University-Civic Symphony boasts a rich history, tracing its origins back to before 1910 as the Normal Orchestra under J.J. Cason. It evolved into a college/community orchestra in 1920 under Howard Elson Goodsell. According to the orchestra’s history page, the AUCS has remained a vital part of Aberdeen’s cultural landscape for over a century. The orchestra is supported by the nonprofit Friends of the Aberdeen University-Civic Symphony and receives an Importation of Musicians Grant from the South Dakota Arts Council.
Ticket Information and Livestream Access
Tickets for “Level Up: An Epic Video Games Pops Concert” are available for general admission purchase at the door. Adult tickets are $10, while senior citizens and Northern State University faculty and staff can purchase tickets for $5. Students are admitted free of charge. For those unable to attend in person, the concert will be livestreamed on the Northern State University Music Department Facebook page. Additional information can be obtained by contacting the Northern State University School of Fine Arts at 605-626-2497 or visiting northern.edu/artsnsu.
The Aberdeen University-Civic Symphony’s February 28th performance promises a captivating evening for music enthusiasts and video game fans alike. The orchestra’s commitment to showcasing both established repertoire and emerging talent, combined with its dedication to community engagement, ensures its continued role as a cultural cornerstone of Aberdeen and the surrounding region. The next scheduled event for the AUCS will be announced on their website in March, following the conclusion of the 2025-26 season.
Share your thoughts on the upcoming concert and the AUCS’s commitment to bringing diverse musical experiences to the community. Let us know what you think in the comments below!
