The Commutation Test and Chris Bacon’s Score for Source Code as a Framework for Film Music Pedagogy

  • Aaron Ziegel Towson University

Abstract

This article lays out a theoretical foundation for the use of the commutation test as a film music-based pedagogical tool. The main titles sequence of Source Code (2011, directed by Duncan Jones) provides an effective example for classroom use, in which alternative musical accompaniments serve to reshape the viewing experience. An analysis of Chris Bacon’s original score for the sequence, supported by primary-source evidence, strengthens the instructional potential of this activity. Additionally, this essay provides a brief technical primer on how to prepare video clips for use in classroom teaching.

Author Biography

Aaron Ziegel, Towson University
Aaron Ziegel is an Assistant Professor of Music History and Culture at Towson University, where he teaches courses on American music, European art music, writing about music, and opera. His published scholarship includes articles and book chapters on little-known American operas of the 1910s, Arthur Nevin’s army song leading during World War I, the film music of Philip Glass and Georges Auric, and the popular songs and concert music of Vernon Duke.
Published
2018-05-10
Issue
Vol 8 No 2 (2018)
Section
Articles

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