Film Music

Introduction to Film Music

  • Film music, or a film score, is integral to the storytelling process in movies.
  • It often manipulates the viewer’s emotional response and highlights dramatic key moments.
  • The film score can be composed of non-diegetic music (music that the characters can’t hear) and diegetic music (music within the world of the film).

Key Concepts and Vocabulary

  • Leitmotif: A recurring musical theme associated with a person, object, or idea.
  • Underscore: The principal part of a film soundtrack, typically instrumental.
  • Source Music: Music heard by both the audience and the characters.
  • Incidental Music: Background music that adds mood to a scene.

Impact and Roles of Music in Film

  • Mood and Atmosphere: Film music can create a specific environment or mood, narrate the story upwards or downwards emotionally.
  • Character Themes: Characters may have specific themes or leitmotifs, which play whenever a certain character appears or is mentioned.
  • Tension and Surprise: Music can build suspense or surprise in a scene.
  • Narrative Cueing: Music can direct the audience’s attention to vital elements of the story.

Types of Film Music

  • Orchestral Score: This traditional method utilises various orchestral sections to create the film’s mood.
  • Electronic Score: Synthesizers and electronic soundscapes are used heavily in these scores.
  • Hybrid Score: A combination of orchestral and electronic music, often used in modern films.
  • Pop Score: Contains popular music by well-known bands and artists.

Notable Composers

  • John Williams: Known for his iconic scores for films such as Star Wars, Jurassic Park, and the Harry Potter series.
  • Hans Zimmer: Recognised for his work on films like Inception, Gladiator, and The Dark Knight series.
  • Danny Elfman: Famed for his collaborations with director Tim Burton.

Analysing Film Music

  • When analysing film music, consider its role in the narrative, how it influences the audience’s feelings, and how the chosen musical techniques are significant to the scene.
  • Link the historical, social and cultural contexts of the music in the film.
  • Always reference the dynamic range, melody, harmony, rhythm, texture, and instrumentation of the music.

Revision Tools and Techniques

  • Past Papers: Utilising official papers can provide an authentic experience.
  • Flashcards: Key terms and definitions can be easily remembered.
  • Mind Maps: This can help in clarifying ideas and thematic connections.
  • Listening to Soundtracks: Get used to identifying elements by listening to film music.