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.