An Introduction to Film Scoring in Horror Movies

The horror movie genre is one of complexity, both in design and story. The style of screenwriting and use of visual and aural nuances has developed into a rich, exciting form of entertainment that plays on the viewer's mind, body, and morals. In terms of visuals, horror movies play on classic psychological fears and utilize them in ways that may be gruesome or traumatizing, yet impossible to look away from. However, one of the biggest tools used to create the sense of fear in the movies is of course the specific use of sound and music to build and develop tension and emphasize horrific scenes. From the usage of drums to imitate a pounding heartbeat to strings playing harsh, discordant and unexpected sounds meant to imitate the screams of frightened animals, and the crashing, staccato chords that strike into instinctive fears, the composer/film scorer of the horror genre plays an extremely important role in delivering the full effect of the film that often goes unnoticed.