Eminence Symphony Orchestra

About Us: The Eminence Symphony Orchestra

Welcome to the world of the Eminence Symphony Orchestra, where the grandeur of classical music meets the imaginative landscapes of video games, anime, and film. Founded by the talented sound director Hiroaki Yura, Sydney, Australia, in 2003, Eminence has become an iconic name in the fusion of traditional symphonic music with contemporary pop culture, creating an extraordinary experience that transcends the boundaries of conventional concert performances.

Our Journey

The story of Eminence began with a vision—a dream shared by a small group of friends, led by the virtuoso violinist Hiroaki Yura. Brought together by their love for music and their diverse cultural backgrounds, these friends set out to create something never before seen in Australia: a symphony orchestra dedicated to the music of Japanese video games and anime. Their inaugural concert, "A Night in Fantasia," was held on October 31, 2003, featuring music from beloved titles such as Final Fantasy and Studio Ghibli films. The overwhelming success of this event proved that the power of music could bridge cultures and captivate audiences far beyond expectations.

A Unique Musical Focus

What sets Eminence apart is our unwavering dedication to the music of video games and anime. While many orchestras focus on classical repertoires, we bring the evocative melodies and dynamic compositions of these modern art forms to life. Our performances are more than concerts; they are immersive experiences where audiences are transported to the worlds of their favorite games and anime. Whether it’s the haunting themes of "Final Fantasy" or the whimsical tunes of "My Neighbor Totoro," our music resonates with both nostalgia and discovery, appealing to fans and newcomers alike.

Expanding Horizons

Over the years, Eminence has grown beyond its roots in Australia, establishing a global presence with offices in Japan and the United States. This expansion has allowed us to collaborate with some of the most renowned composers and creators in the industry, contributing to the soundtracks of iconic games, anime, and films. Our versatility is showcased not only in our large-scale symphony performances but also in our intimate chamber concerts, branded under "Eminence Artists." These smaller ensembles highlight the intricate beauty of individual compositions, offering audiences a closer, more personal connection to the music.

Memorable Performances

Our concert series, "A Night in Fantasia," has become a hallmark of the Eminence experience, evolving with each iteration to include a wider array of music and media. From the epic themes of "Halo" and "Metal Gear Solid" to the delicate piano pieces of Studio Ghibli, our repertoire is as diverse as it is beloved. Eminence has also had the honor of premiering new music, such as the world’s first orchestral performance of the "World of Warcraft Suite" and the Australian premiere of John Williams' "Battle of the Heroes" from Star Wars Episode III.

Beyond the Stage

In addition to our live performances, Eminence is deeply involved in the production and recording of music for various media. We have contributed to the soundtracks of acclaimed titles such as "Romeo x Juliet," "Shadow of the Colossus," and "Dragon Age: Origins," bringing our expertise to the global stage. Our commitment to quality and passion for music ensure that every note we play, whether in a concert hall or a recording studio, is infused with the same energy and emotion that has defined Eminence since our inception.

Join Us

At the Eminence Symphony Orchestra, we believe in the transformative power of music. We invite you to join us on this journey—whether as a listener, a performer, or a supporter—and experience the magic that happens when classical music meets the vibrant worlds of anime, video games, and film. Together, let’s continue to explore new horizons and create unforgettable memories through the universal language of music.