Sweeney Todd music annalysis

The sound in this changes various times within the clip, which changes the atmosphere completely through the scene.

At the beginning when Sweeney is watching the judge come towards the barbers, music is played using a violin which builds up tension as it gets faster and louder. the sound of the character walking up the steps and entering the shop, making the bell ring also adds tension as the character is getting closer. the music dulls down as they have a conversation with slight sounds of violins underneath the dialogue. the creaky floorboards that moan when the characters walk across also add effect as it incorporates the surroundings into the sound.

The mood switches when Sweeney starts to talk to the judge as a real customer, as the sound of a harp sounds over the dark music which gives a smooth transition but a strong change of atmosphere.

the dark sound of violins cut out when the characters begin to sing and the overlay of music is left with harp music.

The characters begin to whistle and hum to the music which brings the music closer into the clip rather than just overlaying it on top.

The music takes a sudden change after this, as the sound of violins is brought back into the clip which begins to build up the tension once again.

Sweeney goes to fetch his knife, and the sound of the knife being unfolded is exaggerated with a high pitch noise. this same noise is repeated in the background numerous times whilst Sweeney is singing.

The music suddenly jumps back to happy when the judge talks, and then goes back to the dark music when he goes back down, as if the judge is interrupting.

The music begins to get louder and the tones begin to stretch longer as Sweeney rings the blade to the judges neck, then all of a sudden a happy tune pitches in and the dark music is cut out and Sweeney simply shaves the judge, although the audience were to expect the worst due to the reputation of the character.

The sound of the blade that was incorporated before in the film was still repeated in the background within the sound of happy flutes, which subtly reminds the audience of the sharp blade he is still holding.

The music still pays joyfully as the characters sing, but as sweeny brings the blade to the characters neck the music begins to sound sinister, however the characters still sing the words which makes the transition of happy to horror music smooth and subtle.