Kulkarni Cultural Series hosts Final Boss Big Band on Oct. 1

MIDDLETOWN, Pa. - Penn State Harrisburg's Kulkarni Cultural Series will press start on a night of nostalgia and big band power with the Final Boss Big Band on Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. in the Mukund S. Kulkarni Theatre.

The 18-piece jazz ensemble transforms legendary video game soundtracks into high-octane jazz. Music from games like Mario Bros., Zelda, Pokémon, Cuphead, Final Fantasy and more are reloaded with bold brass and virtuosic solos.

Formed in 2024 by professional jazz musician Kyle Kratzer, Final Boss Big Band blends the energy of modern gaming culture with the swing, funk and Latin power of a traditional big band. With custom arrangements and new premieres at every concert, the group creates an experience that thrills both jazz fans and gamers alike.

"Video game music has become part of our modern songbook," Kratzer said. "These melodies are instantly familiar across generations, and the big band setting lets us explore them in exciting and unexpected ways."

Tickets are $20 for the public and $10 for Penn State students. The box office can be reached at [email protected]or 717-948-6522. Ticket information can also be found at the Harrisburg box office website.

About the Mukund S. Kulkarni Cultural Series

The Mukund S. Kulkarni Cultural Series at Penn State Harrisburg brings world-class artists to campus, offering experiences that inspire, connect and unite audiences. With an emphasis on cultural exchange and accessibility, the series celebrates the transformative power of the arts. The series is made possible thanks to more than $1 million in gifts in honor of former Penn State Harrisburg Chancellor Mukund S. Kulkarni, who retired in June 2018.