π€ For The John Powell Fans...
May 02, 2023This track was on repeat when I first heard it. π
Vaughan Williams’ “Five Variants of ‘Dives and Lazarus’” is a gorgeous example of effective string writing, and to me, is highly reminiscent of some of Powell’s work in ‘How to Train Your Dragon’:
One of the things that strikes me about this piece is how Williams distributes the melody and harmony in the opening.
Violins 1 and 2 carry the melody alone, Viola plays two-part harmony in divisi, Cello carries 1/2 melody and 1/2 two-part harmony, and Bass alternates between pizzicato and arco for emphasis.
It’s a beautiful example of taking a simple idea and orchestrating it with grace.
The above video has score included, but I was so in love with this piece that I got the physical score—attaching that below for my fellow book lovers π
βhttps://amzn.to/3orXHdPβ
π‘ Challenge: Make a piano reduction of any 4-8 measures in this piece. Note how complex Williams’ score looks on paper, but how simple the arrangement actually is when reduced.
π WantΒ MOREΒ free tools & resources?
You're in luck - click on any of the links below to grab 'em!
- π¬Β My Film Scoring Guide
- π€Β My Music Pricing Calculator
- π οΈΒ My Gear List