4/26/2014

Discovering Science Fiction Music And Sound Design

By Essie Osborn


There is a science to creating great science fiction sound. There are even classes, degrees, schools and tutorials in which one can study this incredible genre and learn the art of applying science fiction music to various productions. There are a great number of past and present films, plays and television shows which use different sounds within the genre.

Classes, schools and tutorials offer coursework in creating different types of sound which is best suited each type of science fiction production. While some offer robotic sound design, others offer programming which can be used as part of a soundtrack. Others provide musical training on various instruments.

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.

Soundtracks need also provide dramatic highs and lows. If vocals are included, each song should simply accompany the action without telling a separate story. This is because if a the music has a story of its own, the audience can often get lost in the music and lose sight of the main story. As has been shown over time, with the right soundtrack, many science fiction movies and television shows have known great success.

Depending on the quality and size of a theatrical production, movie or television show, various thought should be given to the familiarity with different artists associated with the production. In most cases, it is best to use musicians with recognizable names of artists and well known titles. This is because musical artists and the music associated with a production can often have as much a draw as well known actors.

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.

The most important aspects are that the music is in alignment with the story, plot and characters. When it comes to Science Fiction, often it is good to use both sound effects and music for more dramatic experience. Otherwise, the audience may have difficult connecting with the film, play or television show. Whereas, when music provides a great backdrop, audiences often find the soundtrack to be a magical part of the entire experience.




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