Digitally Created: Music in Storytelling

How do you feel when your favorite song comes on? Or what about the song you loved when you were 14? What emotions do these songs bring out in you? Whatever they are, they are strong. Music can make us feel many different things, all with great impact. This is why I find it almost essential to add them into a digital story. Obviously there are exceptions where a musical piece wouldn’t fit but for the most part, I personally feel they should be added whenever possible.

One of my favorite shows is Criminal Minds. This particular show uses a soundtrack that gets you right in your heart. The show is obviously depressing due to the nature of it but when a certain song comes on, mixed with the details of the show, my wife bursts out into tears. Music has such an effect on our emotions; there is an entire branch of phycology that studies music.

Another aspect of music is rhythm. Rhythm is something that we all depend on. I had a band teacher once told me that “the steadiest beat was in your chest.” Rhythm is as essential to life as water. It is for that reason that music can help speed up or slow down your story. Even if the timing of the images or video has not been altered, a different tempo or rhythm of a song can give the illusion of time passing faster or slower.

The goal of our story dictates the type of music we add. Instrumental, lyrical, rock, classical, there are so many types that I promise, you will be able to find something.

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2 comments:

UnknownFebruary 20, 2015 at 8:12 PM
Tyler, I know exactly what you are talking about in reference to the way music can take you back in time. For me blink-182 was one of my favorite bands growing up and whenever I hear there music all of a sudden I am a rebellious middle school/ highschool student again. Music reminds me of places, and people that I don't get the opportunity to visit as much as I'd like, which serves as a connection that at times feels lost.

Kelsea
Bresheem WoodFebruary 20, 2015 at 8:14 PM
Hey Tyler,

Music is a much needed component of life. When a person hears their favorite song, something happens that only science can try to explain. Our lives have a soundtrack with many different songs that affects our moods on a daily basis. This is a very interesting post Tyler!