Here is a real time journal of the Microsoft presentation to kick off E3. It began for me at 11:00 PM on the east coast and here are live notes I transcribed during the feature for all those who missed it and just really want the important stuff.

11:32. A quintet of Halo fans from Libertyville, Il perform the Halo theme with violins, guitars, and a keyboard. Very impressive.

11:36. Peter Moore wanders on stage. Halo 3 launches exactly 11 weeks from tonight. Sweet. States that every game previewed tonight will be released this year.

11:39. Rock Band is previewed. Peter plays the bass, two other dudes play the guitar and drum set which seems to be a five piece set with no bass drum and no symbols, he has to sit to play them. Some girl is on the mike. They play a song I cannot make out, Peter accidentally pauses the game while trying to rock. Man, these guys suck, but the game is pretty sweet. Rip off of Guitar Hero, obviously, but taken a step further. Hit the jump for more…