Developing a video game theme
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Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can develop a video game theme using pulse and rhythm.
Key learning points
- It is important that a video game theme song captures the atmosphere of the game.
- For a high-energy racing game, the theme song should create a feeling of excitement and energy.
- We can use fast, rhythmic percussion layers to add excitement.
- We can also create an energetic driving bass line to add to this energy, including using chord notes and passing notes.
Keywords
Theme song - a piece of music that introduces a film or game and captures its overall atmosphere
Chord tone - a note that is included in the chord
Passing note - a note that links two chord tones by step
Common misconception
Complex music sounds most exciting and energetic.
Not necessarily - sometimes the most energetic music is that which emphasises the pulse and uses driving rhythms. Sometimes if music is too complex, with many busy layers of sound, it can sound chaotic and messy rather than energetic.
Teacher tip
This unit is a good opportunity to engage pupils who are keen gamers. Challenge pupils to analyse the theme songs of games they play and to link that analysis to the concepts explored so far. For pupils who aren't gamers, consider using the Halo theme as a good starting point.
Equipment
DAW, notation software, keyboard or other suitable instrument as a composition tool
Licence
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