Chapter 6 Flashcards
Music used in a film to accompany the action and create atmosphere
FILM MUSIC
Is original (usually instrumental) music composed and recorded especially for a film. Written by a single composer, though sometimes more, it is designed to fit the film and its story perfectly, adhering to a strict time code. they are traditionally performed by orchestras, and many still are, but today they might feature all manner of sounds and instruments
FILM SCORE
Is more a selection of songs chosen to be featured in a film. In most cases they are existing tracks that have been licensed by the film’s producers; in rarer cases films feature original songs, written especially with the film’s story in mind.
FILM SOUNDTRACK
TOP FILM SCORES
Gone With the Wind
Lawrence of Arabia
IMPORTANCE OF FILM MUSIC
It is all about providing a narrative of the scenes, communicating elements of the film
setting and emphasizing the psychological states of the characters, as well as
delivering a collective emotional tone or mood to the viewer
CHARACTERISTICS OF FILM MUSIC
establish atmosphere, time and place. ❑move the action forward. ❑describe character. ❑accompany scene changes. ❑add to the dramatic impact. ❑provide continuity across edits
Film music is not to be noticed for itself. Its great usefulness is the way in which it performs its role without an intervening conscious act of perception.
HOW CAN FILM MUSIC BE UNOBTRUSIVE?
TYPES OF FILM MUSIC
Diegetic and Non-Diegetic
means it comes from within the
“narrative sphere” of the story. That is, the music can be heard, played, or
manipulated by the characters
Think of how a character might turn on a radio in a car to listen to a song. Or go to a
club where the music is playing far too loud
DIEGETIC MUSIC
it has to exist
separately from the characters.
The music exists solely for the audience and is typically used to influence their
emotional reaction to a scene
NON-DIEGETIC MUSIC
TYPES OF NON-DIEGETIC MUSIC
[ FUNCTIONAL MUSIC]
Atmosphere Music Title Music Action Music Mood Music Music Depicting a character
Music intended to evoke a particular scene, place or atmosphere.
Atmosphere Music
Music used with the title of the film, cast and credits are screened. The purpose
of the title music is to attract the attention of the audience and provide some insight into the
type of the film they are about to view.
Title Music
it is the music which mirrors the action on the screen. For example, when an
object falls it is accompanied by the fall in pitch.
Action Music
Music specially composed to evoke a mood and an emotional response.
Mood Music
