In my composition, I used three contrasting cultural references. In the first one, the main instruments are: a low string section, high pitched bells that represent footsteps and theremin. The melody is in a minor key and its texture and volume are gradually increasing, building up a suspense. This was inspired by the «Building Suspense» melody that I heard on the lesson. I used a shaker and a Capella choir to smooth transition from one theme to another. 

The second theme was inspired by the World Music and, therefore, I used African choir, acoustic guitar, trumpets and marimba. Percussion helps to make it more interesting because even though it is a very cliche melody, it still has to be pleasing.

I used a guitar for the beginning of the third theme in order to soften a transition because the same instrument can be heard in the previous theme. The last theme was influenced by the «Country Style USA» melody. I used the similar drum beat, smooth and slow melody and a major key. I also added a choir to create a link with the second theme and bells to create a link with the first theme. The song ends on tonic in order to create an impression of a finished product. (210 words)

Contrasting Cultural Clichés

Kristina CMT