The social platform TikTok has become a global sensation and is the very definition of the duality of social media. While the platform is unfortunately home to ugly trolls and sometimes questionable content, it is also the source of inspiring creativity and wonderful talent, including exquisite harpist Kristan Toczko.
The professional's presence ventured into video game territory when Toczko began taking followers' suggestions of what to play. The harpist plucked her way through an impressive collection of iconic melodies from pop culture, including themes from Final Fantasy and The Legend of Zelda. One post caught the attention of Redditor “frito5867” who shared Toczko’s cover of the Halo theme with fellow fans. The post has received 16.7k upvotes in under 24 hours, where Halo fans flocked to show their appreciation.
The leading comment simply asked “Why did it stop?” Another Redditor confirmed that they downloaded the TikTok app just to follow Toczko. Other comments stated that Martin O’Donnell–one of the composers along with Michael Salvatori who created the theme–would be proud of the harpist's rendition, and Community Manager at 343 Industries John Junyszek was also tagged when one fan stated: “Have this lady hired!” The response was an emotional one from fans, with most reporting chills, reflections on the franchise, and even out-of-body experiences.
Kristan Toczko is known as “one of Canada’s premier harpists” with a jam-packed resume bursting with impressive accolades. First place winner of the OSM Standard Life Competition, named a CBC Radio-Canada Young Artist, and known for sharing the stage with various artists–including Josh Groban, Evanescence, and Sarah McLachlan–only scratches the surface of Toczko’s achievements. Toczko’s mesmerizing performances have now broken the boundaries of TikTok, inviting a wider audience to lap up her unforgettable skill.
Another musician showcasing their talents for the video game community is Milan-based composer and producer Alex Moukala. Terra’s Theme from Final Fantasy 6 was in the musician’s crosshairs reimagined in the style of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. Moukala’s creation is another piece that makes your hair stand on end, in a community where no amount of video game music is enough.
Source: Kristan Toczko / TikTok