The Ottawa Pops Orchestra Presents: Materia Symphony: Inspired by Final Fantasy VII

The Ottawa Pops Orchestra Presents: Materia Symphony: Inspired by Final
Fantasy VII, Live featuring a full symphonic orchestra and choir
Ottawa, ON – April 13 2026 – The Ottawa Pops Orchestra presents Materia Symphony:
Inspired by Final Fantasy VII, April 17 and 18 at the Carleton Dominion-Chalmers
Centre. The program features a full symphony orchestra and choir in a concert based
on the music of Final Fantasy VII.
Originally premiered in Montreal by l’Orchestre de jeux vidéo, Materia Symphony comes
to Ottawa in an expanded form, specially adapted and re-orchestrated for the Ottawa
Pops Orchestra. The work is based on the score by Nobuo Uematsu and arranged by
Montreal composer Alexandre Choinière as a four-movement symphonic structure
reflecting the narrative of the game.
“At the Ottawa Pops Orchestra, we believe that great music can transcend its original
context,” says Artistic and Executive Director Mathieu Roy. “This program is designed to
stand on its own as a concert experience, whether or not you are familiar with the
game.”
For conductor Jonathan Dagenais, the music of Final Fantasy VII has had a lasting
influence on his musical development:
"Final Fantasy VII has been a defining revelation in my life. As a young musician, I was
captivated by its complex storytelling, but it was Nobuo Uematsu’s expressive and
grand score that truly transformed me. Far from being mere background music,
Uematsu’s work acts as a hidden narrator, masterfully shaping the game’s atmosphere.
Much like John Williams, he utilizes leitmotifs to breathe life into characters and pivotal
events, moving seamlessly from moments of fragile intimacy to sweeping, epic
grandeur. This soundtrack is a primary reason why I chose a professional career in
music.
Divided into four distinct movements covering the entire saga, the Materia Symphony is
designed to let you relive this extraordinary odyssey through the full power of the
orchestra. It is an experience that promises to be truly spine-tingling."
The arrangement expands the original material for full orchestra and choir, incorporating
additional orchestral textures and choral writing. Latin text, adapted from elements of
the game’s narrative, is integrated into the score. Choral preparation is led by Deirdre
Kellerman.

The concert is intended for a broad audience, whether you are a lifelong fan of the
game or discovering this music for the first time. No prior knowledge is required.
Audiences are encouraged to come as they are and immerse themselves in a live
performance. Costumes are encouraged.
Showtimes
Friday, April 17, 2026 – 7:30 PM
Saturday, April 18, 2026 – 2:00 PM
Saturday, April 18, 2026 – 7:00 PM
All performances take place at the Carleton Dominion-Chalmers Centre, 290 Lisgar
Street, Ottawa, ON
Tickets for Materia Symphony: Inspired by Final Fantasy VII are available through the
Ottawa Pops Orchestra website and through Eventbrite. Accessible pricing for those
under 30 is available.