Arranging and analysing video game music
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Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can arrange a video game composition and analyse unfamiliar video game music.
Key learning points
- Video game composers must check that transitions between sections work musically, in all possible sequences.
- Dovetailing of melodies is an effective way of linking sections.
- Key changes, in particular, can sound unnatural and jarring.
- When analysing unfamiliar music, we can analyse the use of vertical layering and horizontal resequencing.
- Identifying the type of loops used and the mood created can suggest what type and era of video game it is.
Keywords
Horizontal resequencing - where a new section of music begins in response to a player's action
Vertical layering - where layers of music are 'stacked' on top of each other and change in response to the player’s actions
Linear loop - a repeating musical idea in a video game that can be looped indefinitely
Common misconception
Sudden tempo changes do not work in horizontal resequencing.
Sometimes tempo changes can sound jarring and unnatural, but sometimes video game composers want to create a sudden change of pace. If done carefully, tempo changes can work effectively.
Teacher tip
The first task is an opportunity for pupils to tweak their compositions. Often juxtaposing different sections highlights features that don't work musically. If necessary, guide them as to what sounds 'unnatural' - often it will be using chords from a different key, or timbres that contrast too much.
Equipment
DAW, notation software, keyboard or other suitable instrument as a composition tool
Licence
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