Tuesday, April 29, 2014

The Science Behind Science Fiction Music

By Essie Osborn


Whether creating, acting in, or watching a movie, play or television show, the soundtrack is always an important and integral part of the process. Generally, science fiction music is often instrumental with some using live orchestras and sound effects either on stage or during the filming process. One of the key factors is that all sound associated with a production flow with the characters, plot and story.

Science fiction has always been a popular genre with regards to film, television and theater. This has been the case since the inception of theatrical arts, movie houses and television. Much of which has often been recorded live during the filming process when it comes to blockbusters such as the recent "Gravity, " or involve musicians playing live on stage. "Star Trek" is probably the best example of a television show which uses a great deal of recorded music as background sound.

A good example of sound related to the genre used in television is the sound backdrops found in original "Star Trek, " episodes though there were also earlier shows such as "Lost and Space, " and others which preceded the infamous "Star Trek." As far as movies, one of the most dramatic soundtracks is that of "Star Wars, " in which a live orchestra provided the backdrop of sound.

Whether a soundtrack is live or recorded, there are certain aspects that need to be included when it comes to accompanying any form of science fiction. One is that the soundtrack build and decrease energy of the audience. Otherwise, viewers may become somewhat distant from the action, story and miss important details related or leading to the main plot.

When vocal tracks are used, it is important that the songs do not tell a story different from the production. Otherwise, the audience may get lost in the music and miss key elements of the production which relate to the overall story line and plot. When it comes to productions for children, there is more freedom to use material which aids in telling a story along with the various characters, whether animated or otherwise.

Musical artists and song titles are an important aspect of any production. Regardless of size of a theatrical production whether film, play or television show, it is important to use well known song titles and artists. This is because many audiences are drawn as much by the artists and song titles in a production as by the actors, producers, directors and previews.

When soundtracks for films, plays or television are related to stories for children, it is important to use material which is short, sweet and age appropriate. Children often have a much shorter attention span than adults so creating soundtracks which animated characters can dance and move it is often advised. Still, even with animation, it is good to maintain a balance of high and low points when it comes to the soundtrack as children often connect with the music as much as the story.

Regardless, the most important elements are that the music fit the characters, plot and story, entertain the audience and leave the audience with an overall positive reaction. It is also important the music build up and reduce the energy of the audience during key moments. After which, viewers often leave with an overall positive sense whether the production be animated, fictional, or non-fictional.




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