For Creating a Soundtrack
This collection of resources can be used to introduce and support a variety of topics covered within this project. Consider them as material to support teachable moments in the classroom.
Overarching Project Resources
Sonic Elements and Sound Design
How to Make a Blockbuster Film Trailer video
This take on a blockbuster film trailer dissects the stylistic conventions in a humorous way.
Sounds of the Nightmare Machine video
Often the music used in a film can blur the lines between musicality and sound design.
This video demonstrates an acoustic/electric machine that creates nightmarish/horror type sounds.
Musical Conventions Used in Film
What is an Ostinato? video
The repetition of notes in a melodic phrase is a common musical tool used in film music.
This video provides some great pop and soundtrack examples of ostinatos.
How to use Suspenseful Music: Mastering the Film Score article
This blog post contains a range of musical topics:
- Tension and release
- The impact of tempo
- Crescendos and impact
Read: How to use Suspenseful Music: Mastering The Film Score
The Music of Star Wars article
This blog post provides a range of examples of musical themes and leitmotifs used in the original Star Wars trilogy.
Read: The Music of Star Wars
Compositional Processes
Hans Zimmer – Scoring to Picture video
In this short introductory video, Hans Zimmer talks about his compositional process and provides a couple of quick tips.
What is the Function of Film Music? article
This blog post contains several insightful ideas and video links for providing deeper insights into the function of film music.
History and Evolution of Film Music
Know the Score: A Brief History of Film Music article
This blog post is an excellent place to start for a concise history of film music. It provides examples along a timeline from the silent era onwards.
Read: Know the Score: A Brief History of Film Music
The Evolution of the Movie Trailer video
This six-minute New York Magazine feature talks about the history and evolution of the film trailer.