Film Music: A Very Short Introduction

Film music has a long history, dating back to the earliest projected moving images, and has evolved into its own industry and aesthetic platform. This Very Short Introduction provides an overview of film music, including its practical aspects and the theories that explain why it works. The updated second edition includes music from film industries in Africa, Asia, South Asia, and Latin America and focuses on under-represented film musicians, particularly women and minority composers.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 08 November 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

The rich and profoundly evocative melodies of film music trace their origins back to the very inception of cinema itself. The earliest projected moving images were accompanied by a diverse range of musical performances, encompassing everything from solitary piano players to small orchestras, each of which played a crucial role in bringing the images to life. Over time, film music has evolved into a distinct industry, serving as a vibrant aesthetic platform for artists to express their creative visions and as a powerful vehicle for nurturing the rise of musical stars across various genres. In this concise yet comprehensive Very Short Introduction, Kathryn Kalinak takes readers on a behind-the-scenes journey to explore both the practical aspects of film music, including its definition and composition, and the theories that have been formulated to understand its profound impact. This accessible book not only captivates with captivating stories of the composers and performers who have shaped film music across the globe but also provides readers with a comprehensive understanding of the key issues and debates in the field of film music studies. The second edition of this book has been updated to include music from film industries in Africa, Asia, and South Asia, as well as Latin America. Moreover, it has a particular focus on previously under-represented film musicians, particularly women and minority composers, who have made significant contributions to the art form. By delving into the world of film music, readers will gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry, emotion, and power that it possesses, and will be inspired to explore the vast and diverse landscape of cinematic soundscapes.

Weight: 144g
Dimension: 111 x 174 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197628034
Edition number: 2 Revised edition