History of films
Earlier films did not have the technology to include sound so they often used the piano or organ to assist in the visual impact of the film.
The pianist or organist would often add extra sound effect such as door slamming, gun shots, door knocking.
The role of the music was to help settle the audience to focus on the film as the the projector would be distracting because of the noise that it created when it was played. Most importantly, the music helped set the mood, character and setting.
Later on, more instruments were involved in playing the music to accompany the films.
If you go to the Orpheum theatre in North Sydney, they still have the organ playing at the beginning of the film almost like a prelude.
Watch Charles Chaplain 'The Champion' here
Listen to how the music changed the mood in the second scene.
Activity 1: In your exercise books:
a) Write down the various genres in film: Eg- Sci-Fi, Comedy,etc
b) Write down at least 2 films that fit into each genre.
Activity 2: Download, listen and watch the short film credits and complete questions below.
There are going to be 7 different T.V/ movie themes in different genres (styles).
Click on the highlighted here to watch the short film credits.
D- here
Answer the Questions below for each clip.
Title of the show:
1. What is this show about? Discuss about the Characters /Events
2. What instruments have the composers used? How have they used voices whether singing or talking to create the mood?
3. What genre of film or show (Comedy/Romantic/ Horror/ Science-Fiction/ Action/ Mystery) do you think it would be? How does the music convey/ show this?
4. Do you think the Composer has successfully created music appropriate for the show / Movie? Explain your reasons
5. How many stars would you rate the music in the show/ movie?
a) 2/5 b) 3/5 c) 4/5 d) 5/5