Blog.
Random bits and bobs about music.
Composing for Media
Using media such as films, tv shows or video games is a great way of exploring or introducing new composition techniques. There’s a lot to unpack when discussing what goes into creating an effective score. Some students may never have considered the purpose or impact of a film score, and think of it as something secondary to the film itself. Some of the most iconic and recognisable pieces of music are from films. The opening bars of the Theme from Harry Potter by John Williams instantly transport listeners to a world where magic is possible, while the famed 2 first notes from Jaws (also by John Williams) quickly signal fear and terror (and that it’s probably not going to be a great day at the beach). While younger students may not have seen Jaws yet, they will likely still be familiar with the score and can describe the feeling of foreboding conveyed by the music.
So what goes into composing an effective score? There are many elements involved:
Conveying emotion to match what is being expressed by the actors on screen
Sound design techniques to ‘set the scene’
Balancing your own ideas with what the director has requested
Instrumentation and Orchestration
Use of motifs to identify characters or places
And so much more!
There are many tools available for students to explore scoring, and many of which are free. Most computers come with free video editing software to put together finished projects.
Access to fancy computer programs does not have to be a barrier either. The ‘silent films’ of the mid 1800’s to early 1900’s were not truly silent. While the ability to synchronise and package sound with the film itself had yet to be realised, they generally still had a score. Organists or Pianists would often provide the music, either the accompanying score with the sheet music provided, or they would perform their own improvisation.
Learning activity:
A fun activity for students is to pretend to be a silent film organist of yore.
1) Select a short cartoon or segment of a cartoon. Keeping the sound off, watch it a couple of times to identify key events or characters.
2) Assist the student create several distinct themes that are easily playable. For example, themes for when the character is happy, sad or just going about their business, and a title or introduction theme.
3) Then using an iPad (or TV or phone if these are all you have available), play the cartoon with the sound off while the student provides the music.
This provide the added challenge of needing to watch what is happening on screen while playing your instrument and referring to your score (if you’ve written it out).
This is also a fun activity to work on dynamics for students who may default to playing too loud or soft.
Students will enjoy the opportunity to apply their skills and knowledge in a new way, as well as getting to watch cartoons in music lessons!
Tips for creating your own music
Everyone has the ability to create music. Use these hot tips to give songwriting and composition a go!
Find Your Inspiration
Every composition begins with inspiration. It can come from personal experiences, emotions, or things like nature, art, or even other music. Start by identifying what inspires you and use that as a foundation for your composition. You could even keep a journal or diary (or voice memo) to capture fleeting moments of inspiration and ideas as they come to you.
Study Music Theory
You’ve gotta learn the rules before you can break the rules! Learning about scales, chords, harmonies, and rhythm will provide you with the building blocks you need to write interesting compositions. If you’re not enrolled in theory lessons you can always ask your instrumental teacher questions. There are lots of books, websites and games that help you to learn the theory of music.
Experiment with Instruments
Experimentation is key to discovering your own unique style. Try different instruments if they are available to you, even if you might not have had much (or any) experience with them. Each instrument has its own distinct characteristics and can spark new ideas and melodies. You might be surprised by the sounds and ideas that emerge when you step out of your comfort zone. You could even try using objects you find around the house or outside to create new and exciting sounds.
Start Small
If you're new to composition, don't feel pressured to create a 40 minute piece for a full orchestra right from the get-go. Start small! Short melodies or chord progressions, or even tapping out a rhythm or finding a sound you like on your electric keyboard. You could even try giving yourself only 5 or so notes to work with and seeing what you come up with.
Develop a Structure
A well-structured composition is more engaging for your audience. Explore different song structures, such as verse-chorus-verse or AABA, and decide which one suits your composition. An organized structure will make your music more memorable and accessible.
Embrace Experimentation
Don't be afraid to push boundaries and experiment with new ideas. Some of the most innovative and memorable compositions have been the result of daring experimentation. Mix different musical genres, time signatures, or tempos to create something fresh and exciting.
Edit and Revise
Be prepared to make changes to your composition if you feel it’s not working. If you’re feeling stuck, sometimes taking time to work on something else or do something completely unrelated might give you the fresh eyes (and ears!) you need to complete your song.
Collaborate with Others
Collaborating with other musicians can be not only very fun, but very productive. You might learn some new tricks and tips while having a good time.
Record Your Work
You don’t need expensive and fancy equipment to record your work. Recording your compositions, even with basic equipment will help you to hear your music objectively and can be an invaluable tool for sharing your work with others. With today's technology, you can easily produce high-quality recordings at home.
Share Your Music
Finally, don't be shy about sharing your music with others. Perform your compositions for friends, family, or upload them to platforms like SoundCloud or YouTube. Feedback from others can help you improve and gain confidence as a composer.
Writing your own music compositions is a journey of self-expression and creativity. It's a process that requires dedication, patience, and a willingness to learn and grow. With these tips as your guide, you can embark on your musical journey and create compositions that are a true reflection of your unique voice and creativity. Remember that every composer started somewhere, and with time and practice, your skills will continue to develop and evolve.
What I’ve been listening to. October 2023.
Kylie’s latest album, revisiting a classic B-52s album, and reliving my youth with The Hives best of.
Tension - Kylie Minogue
Wild Planet - The B-52’s
The Death of The Hives - The Hives
Dynamics.
What are they and why are they all over my page?
If you want to bring life, emotion, and depth to a musical performance you’re going to need to use dynamics.
You won’t have an engaging and interesting performance without variations in the volume, intensity, and expression.
Dynamics allow musicians to convey a wide spectrum of feelings, from quiet introspection to triumphant exuberance, and everything in between.
These fluctuations in volume and intensity help shape the musical narrative.
By using dynamics effectively, composers and performers can evoke a range of emotions, maintain the audience's interest, and breathe life into the notes on the page.
Ultimately making the music more engaging, memorable, and emotionally resonant.
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