Cue No. 19

A Prisoner of Azkaban-style statement of Malfoy’s theme opens this cue, chosen due to the visual of the Marauder's Map. There is a quick transition from Harry’s bedside to Slughorn’s dinner party, where violins begin his theme with nearly no accompaniment. The space between notes remaining empty reflects the awkwardness of the entire evening. Many silences and the awkwardness of nobody knowing how to carry on the conversation are reflected in the way the orchestration leaves gaps in the sound.

Cellos finish Slughorn’s theme, and a series of variations begin as he desperately tries to continue the party in good spirits. A woodwind interruption of Hermione’s theme plays uncomfortably over her having to explain to everyone what dentists are. Woodwind triads bounce around with very little self-confidence, and celesta helps them descend back into the discomfort of the situation.

Ginny’s arrival causes a halt in the entire party. The music stands still; some triplets dance around the situation, seemingly trying to get a melody going, but without success. Slughorn continues one last time, trying to get momentum in the conversation once again. Dissonance sees out the cue, agreeing with the audience that nothing about the party was pleasant except, perhaps, the ice cream.