Understanding the Elements of Music and Sound
Music:
A system for expression of feelings, music has played different roles throughout history.
Acoustics:
Acoustics is the science that studies the physics of sound fundamentals.
Height:
Height depends on the number of vibrations per second; treble and bass sounds produced are measured in hertz (Hz).
Musical Expression:
- Notes
- Scales
- Staves
- Clefs
Intensity:
Intensity depends on the vibration or wave and produces soft and loud sounds, measured in decibels (dB). Overtones (piano, forte, mezzo forte) are regulators.
Read MoreFlamenco and Film Music History
70s: Music in Film
Apocalypse Now and Psychedelic Influence
The film “Apocalypse Now” uses psychedelic music reminiscent of Stanley Kubrick’s “2001: A Space Odyssey.” This era saw the influence of composers like Johann and Richard Strauss. In European cinema, particularly Italian cinema, composer Nino Rota created scores for Federico Fellini’s films, including “Amarcord.” Psychedelic music also drew inspiration from rock operas like “Jesus Christ Superstar.” The rise of disco clubs is reflected in
Read MoreThe Role of Music in Film, Television, Video Games, and Advertising
Music in Film
Classical Music in Film
Directors often utilize existing classical pieces in their films instead of commissioning original scores. Sometimes, films recreate the lives of classical musicians or performers, where the music plays a crucial diegetic role.
Music in Television
Music serves two primary functions on television:
- Structural Element: Music introduces and separates television segments, marking the beginning or end of program sections.
- Ambience: Music sets the mood and predisposes the
Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5: First Movement Analysis
First Movement of Symphony No. 5 in C Minor, Op. 67
Ludwig van Beethoven
Rhythm
The rhythm is binary, regular, and constant, measured in 2/4 time. The tempo is Allegro con brio (fast and energetic). A rhythmic cell—three eighth notes and one half note—generates the entire movement. Although this cell appears twice in the first five bars, the use of a fermata on the half note obscures the rhythm’s continuity. From the sixth bar, the theme exposition begins with the cell’s proliferation throughout
Read MorePuno’s Rich Folklore: Traditional Dances and Celebrations
The Charms of Puno, Peru
Peru boasts numerous provinces and cities attractive to tourists. The Department of Puno amazes travelers with its charming and rich folklore. It seems like an Inca place extracted from a fable, where traditions are artistically depicted in hundreds of dances seen in feasts and festivals.
These celebrations occur regularly throughout the year, and almost all have religious themes, blending Christian colonial past with indigenous pagan traditions. Puno festivities honor both
Read MoreGounod’s Faust: Synopsis, Music, and History
Plot
In an overture without special interest is the first frame, the study of Dr. Faust, who spent the night with books, like many others in his long life. But the more he studied, the more desperately he recognizes that there has been no progress on the big questions of existence. In a fit of melancholy, like poison, the joyful singing of the peasants, who praise God and nature, is contained. Faust decides to make one last attempt. Let Satan help! And Satan is present in the act, leans over, and
Read More