Theme from Super Mario Bros.

(posted after watching a video clip of an energetic performance of this by a friend on the piano)

Theme from Super Mario Bros.

From the video game by Nintendo.

First released 1985.

Composed by Koji Kondo.

(from Wikipedia)

Calypso rhythm. Lively and catchy.
Lots of syncopation.
Interesting changes in harmony.
Surprisingly popular with a huge international following.
 
Wiki link here.
Transcriptions by Philip Kim here.






Original (1985)
1980s video game sound.






Evolution (1985-2012)
Same theme from different versions of the video game over the years.
Refreshingly new orchestrations and each time and also some reharmonisation.






Synthesia 
Maps out trajectory of the theme.
Note parabolic profile in descending segment.

 





Sheng 
Chinese Bagpipe.
Sounds surprisingly authentic.






Video Game Pianist
Clear and crisp piano version.






London Symphony Orchestra
Pleasant surprise from a very serious orchestra.
Nice rich orchestration.











Electronic Remix
Some interesting ideas.
Spacey sounds with techno beat.






Video Games Live (Orchestra)
With relevant background scenes.
And many fans in the audience!







Koji Kondo on Piano
Played by the composer himself!







One of the latest versions.
For the Nintendo Wii.
Rehamonised and reorchestrated.
Underworld Theme transformed to bassline with rock guitar riff above.