Monday 4 October 2010

Media Glossary

Sound
The Soundtrack- This is the music that is featured in the film.

The score is the piece of music that sets the scene, it is usually instrument based. 

Incidental music is background music that adds atmosphere. It may take the form of something as simple as a low, ominous tone suggesting an impending starting event, or, to enhance the depiction-advancing sequence.  

There is also the themes and stings, the Ambient sound, the dialogue, sound effects and Non-diagetic sounds.

Themes and Stings
Theme- A melodic, or sometimes a harmonic idea presented in a musical form. Think about the instruments used. 
Stings- Distinctive background music used to add emphasis to an important moment in a film or t.v programme. 

Ambient Sounds
These are the background noises that are present in a film. 

The dialogue
This sets the tone about the character. 

Sound Effects
These are used to make the scene more exciting and exaggerate the action. 

Non-diagetic Sounds
These are sounds that have been imported after the scene has been shot. This can include a voice over or music used to create a mood or manipulate emotions. 

Diagetic Sounds
 these are natural and have not been added to the shot. eg. The music from a car radio or dialogue. The radio sound make the scene more authentic and the dialogue progresses the narrative. 

If the sound is loud it could symbolise drama or anger. If there is silence it could represent peacefulness, isolation and loneliness.  Drama and violence adds tension. 

Pitch
High pitched sounds like symbols, electric guitar and strings could represent conflict, tension and anxiety. 
Low pitched sounds are more calming but can also be seen at threatening depending on the context. 

Most sound is called parallel sound or synchronous sound. This is sound that matches the visuals. 
Contrapuntal sounds offer an alternative reading. You don't expect the choices made, it doesn't match what's going on. 

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