Musical Themes in Popular Media
We’ll discuss how composers use music patterns to evoke memory and emotions using examples from films and video games such as Star Wars, Harry Potter, the Legend of Zelda, and Final Fantasy.
Diana Maldonado
Average rating:
4.6
Number of reviews:(53)
What's included
1 live meeting
45 mins in-class hoursClass Experience
Themes in music enhance storytelling, most often without the audience realizing it. In this class we will look at recurring patterns and themes in film scores and video game soundtracks and learn how composers use them to create emotions in the audience. Students will learn how to actively listen to music in media so they can interpret the music and its hidden meanings. The class will offer video and audio examples mainly from Harry Potter, Star Wars, The Legend of Zelda, and Final Fantasy VII, though students will be encouraged to think of examples from other games and movies. Students will hear music that they've heard before, music that seems familiar but won't be able to tell quite where it comes from, and music they may not have noticed was in their favorite movies and games before. We will often pause to discuss reactions and opinions of a given musical example, so interaction between students is encouraged! Breakdown of class: 10 minutes: What is a musical theme? 15 minutes: How can music make us become attached and emotional? 20 minutes: How do composers change musical themes, and what does it mean?
Learning Goals
Students will learn to better listen to music scores in movies and video games by learning how to recognize the different ways musical themes occur. They will learn the history of the techniques used today to make memorable film and video game music, and how to interpret subtle changes in the music they hear.
Other Details
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined March, 2020
4.6
53reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
I have a Bachelor of Music degree and have always loved the study of music (musicology). I even considered becoming a musicologist! I've enjoyed teaching teens in both private and group settings for the last three years.Reviews
Live One-Time Class
$10
per classMeets once
45 min
Completed by 7 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 12-15
2-8 learners per class
