Cue No. 10

A classic statement of Hedwig’s Theme plays over the reveal of the Great Hall, emphasizing yet another shot-for-shot callback David Yates utilized in this film. Musically it is in a lower key, representing the darker times the characters are living in. The music quickly dissipates, and a comedic moment between Ron and Hermione is choreographed by pizzicato strings and clarinets.

Upon Harry’s entrance into the Great Hall, a quick shot of the Sorting Hat flashes by the screen, prompting yet another Hedwig’s Theme, this time more distant and mysterious. Woodwinds have small solos moving down in range as Harry sits with everyone and tells them he will explain his predicament later.

Dumbledore is accompanied by a low Double Trouble in the celesta, once again complimenting a shot reminiscent of a similar one in Prisoner of Azkaban. The English Horn plays a warm Fawkes the Phoenix theme over his calm opening words to the students. This opening speech is more calm than in previous years. Even the announcement of Slughorn is only supported by a quiet solo horn playing his theme.

Concern sweeps across the hall as Snape is announced as the new defense against the dark arts teacher. Low strings and harp wander around in mid-air right as his name is said, then everything stops. A slow, barely recognizable flute motif plays, then dissolves back into the orchestra. The strings take over in triads and calm the entire texture down to the bottom of their range.

Dumbledore moves into the most important topic of the evening; Tom Riddle. The Chamber of Secrets theme slithers around in the low strings and harp, piano, and celesta play the melody on top. A distant solo voice is heard across this statement, adding a new and ominous flavor to already familiar music. Celesta takes over completely and then cellos finish out the cue, once again descending to the bottom of the orchestra.