Intro music development

Playlist

Track 2

This track was one of the first responses we got back from our composer following the musical direction that was sent. This was a good start it grasped the feeling of a small town/community. It also has a notes of curiosity. However, when placing this in the intro edit, we felt that it just didn't really fit with the footage and overall feel. And didn't work well with the intention of establishing the town.  

Track 1

After much discussion, we agreed with the composer for him to attempt to create his waltz. This is the first sample of the waltz that was sent to us which allowed us to edit simultaneously as he continues to develop the waltz. This shows a clear basic tempo and rhythm which allows us to begin to get an idea of the pacing of the intro.

Track 3

Here is the next development of the waltz. We really like the way he has included the string instruments which captures the aura of the town quite well. Getting a good balance between the big scale of the valley with the small town that lays within it. However, we weren't too sure with the bells that were included throughout. It gives too much of a magical feel, holding relation to Christmas songs or children's lullabies. 

 Track 4
Here he has adapted the bells, now they have no relation to the previously explained connotations. Now the bells very minimal, contributed to the feel of curiosity and the strings are the main focus which works very well. Also he has added a low brass instrument which initiates around 50 seconds which works well in the edit where people start speaking. Allowing the audience to focus on the visuals and not get too distracted by the soundtrack.

Track 5
Here is a a different version of the waltz in a minor key. This gives a very different feel and atmosphere. We like it, however we feel as if it gives a bit of a negative/sad feel which isn't what we want to do. We want to reflect the positive outlook of the townspeople.

Track 6

This is the latest version of the track. Overall we are very pleased with this piece as it complements the visuals very well. Through communicating with the composer we have insured that certain instruments start at certain points in certain ways. This has provided the basis for an engaging pace to the introduction of the documentary whilst creating the atmosphere that we wanted. 

Overall summary of final track
This music works perfect for the introduction scene as it helps introduce the element of Rjukan be a small town. The fact that it is a waltz provides it with a traditional feel which complements the introduction as a whole. The wintery bells work very well in indicating the season that the intro is based in and as the strings and melody slowly evolve, you get a sense of a build up of a story.