Scoring the Screen: Using the Vocabulary
Where theory meets practice. Develop your composing skills by applying the principles of original underscore to real-world scenarios. Experience live recording sessions and explore key elements like spotting, pacing, and point-of-view, empowering you to craft captivating musical narratives for film.
Module 2 (3 credits)
Once a new language is learned, it must be put into practice immediately or it is soon lost. In this module, you will learn to put theoretical knowledge into practice by composing original underscore for film. Through writing assignments, mock-ups, and live recording sessions, you will develop your composing skills and gain a deep understanding of key elements like spotting, pacing, and point-of-view. You will also explore various genres, equipping yourself with a toolkit of techniques to effectively tell compelling stories through music.
What will you learn in this module?
- The importance of putting new language skills into practice immediately to retain proficiency.
- Applying theory from FSAEO1 to practical scenarios using original footage and exercises to enhance composing abilities.
- Employing general principles, common practices, and methodologies for composing underscore in both short and long-form narrative films.
- Engaging in writing assignments that prepare you for live recording sessions at the end of the course cycle.
- Recommended exercises to be done at your own pace, while major writing assignments require mock-ups following industry cue approval protocols.
- Preparing scores for overlay or 'striping' sessions where live performances are added to mock-ups, mirroring professional practice.
- Exploring key elements of spotting, pacing, and point-of-view, and learning to read a scene like a dramatist.
- Undertaking assignments in various genres (e.g., science-fiction-fantasy, film noir, romantic comedy, intimate human drama) to develop a foundational toolkit of techniques.
- Embracing the mindset that the crucial question when composing is "What story needs to be told?" and understanding which musical techniques best serve that purpose.
Why do you need to understand how to apply the standard screen scoring vocabulary?
- Practical Application: You will learn to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, working with original footage and exercises to develop your composing skills.
- Professional Techniques: You will gain insights into the general principles, common practices, and methodologies of composing underscore for both short and long-form narrative films, equipping you with industry-standard techniques.
- Collaboration and Approval Process: By following cue approval protocols, you will understand the process of working with directors and producers, ensuring your music aligns with their vision and receives the necessary approval.
- Live Recording Sessions: The module prepares you for live recording sessions, mirroring professional practice. This experience will enhance your ability to integrate live performances with mock-ups, resulting in high-quality compositions.
- Scene Interpretation: You will learn how to analyze scenes from a dramatist's perspective, enhancing your understanding of spotting, pacing, and point-of-view, enabling you to effectively convey emotions and enhance storytelling through your music.
- Diverse Genres and Styles: Assignments in various genres (e.g., science-fiction-fantasy, film noir, romantic comedy, intimate human drama) will expand your toolkit of techniques, enabling you to adapt your compositions to different storytelling requirements.
- Story-Centric Approach: The module emphasizes the importance of understanding the story and using appropriate musical techniques to enhance it, ensuring your compositions effectively contribute to the narrative and evoke the desired emotions.
By mastering the skills and knowledge gained from this module, you will be well-prepared to excel as a composer in the competitive and dynamic world of film and game scoring, delivering impactful and immersive musical experiences.
Have questions about this programme?
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