The Power of Music

Have you ever noticed how music affects our emotions? I'm sure you have experienced this, especially if you've watched a movie. The music in the background intensifies the experience and manipulates your emotions to where the movie maker wants them to be.

Just think about it. You're watching a movie, and it's come to a crisis point. You know something drastic is going to happen soon, but you don't know when. As the tension builds, quick, repetitive notes are played by strings in the background, gradually increasing in speed. It gets on your nerves, setting you on edge in anticipating/dreading the moment when the tension ends. As the waiting wears on, kettle drums begin to roll slowly. Then all of a sudden, brass instruments blare and the enemy attacks ( or whatever is going to happen). Do you see how your tension was built up by the music? That same scene would not be nearly so powerful without it.

Take another example. Flute and harp music is playing in the background. The scene is a forest at night. The music is sweet and slow, conveying a peaceful sense. Suddenly there is a sharp crescendo and strings begin playing a minor chord quickly. (Translation: The music gets louder and starts to sound more dramatic than peaceful) The peaceful forest has been transformed into a forest filled with foreboding.

These are just some of the examples I can think of. Can you think of any more?