movies/tv

The Art of Fear: Exploring the Power of Horror Movie Soundtracks

Musicnotes

Jun 30, 2023 • 4 min read

When people watch horror movies, they want more than a story; they want an experience. They enjoy the tension and excitement that comes with the scares presented in the plot. A critical part of creating that tension is the use of music and sound. Horror movie soundtracks and scores are essential in setting the tone of the film. Take a look at what makes these soundtracks so powerful, and which ones are iconic among movie soundtracks.

Horror Movie Soundtracks and Your Emotions

Soundtracks and music in a horror movie can make several important impacts on the overall film experience. Each plays a part in making the movie haunting and memorable. By combining these techniques, a film composer can leave viewers’ hearts beating just as fast and hard as the killer’s next victim.

Setting the Tone

One of the first jobs for a soundtrack is to set the tone of the story. Eerie music in the opening credits and first scenes put the audience in the right frame of mind so they are ready for the scary twists ahead.

Building Tension

The best horror movie soundtracks can also build tension and suspense throughout the film. Imagine the moment when a villain jumps out of hiding to confront their next victim. In most horror movies, this moment is accompanied by ominous music that leads up to the big reveal, followed by a surging note when the villain attacks and high-energy music during the subsequent action sequence. The music keeps the viewer on edge through the entire scene.

Enhancing Emotional Moments

A well-timed, sudden burst of music can make viewers jump out of their seats, while slow and quiet music can create an uncomfortable and unsettling feeling of dread. Composers of horror movie soundtracks also know how to use silence to create suspense or fear.

Introducing the Villain

Another technique you will see in the scariest movie soundtracks and film scores is the recurring use of one piece of music to introduce the villain. Once the audience associates that music with that particular character, the music becomes a plot device. When the audience hears it, they know the villain is close, even if the character is off-screen and the other characters are unaware. Anticipation ramps up as viewers wait for the big reveal.

Making an Impression

Horror movie soundtracks have the ability to leave a lasting impression on viewers, long after the film has ended. Music that is haunting and memorable can linger in their minds. It can even become iconic, such as the soundtrack for Halloween or Jaws. When people hear the theme music from those movies, they can almost play key scenes from the movie in their heads. Some themes are so powerful, they become known to people who haven't even seen the movie.

5 of the Best Horror Movie Soundtracks

With decades of films to choose from, there are many contenders for a list of the best horror movie soundtracks. Over the years, film composers have worked to elevate their craft and find new ways to elicit emotions from audiences. Here are a few of the best soundtracks from scary movies.

1. 'Halloween' (1978)

It's no surprise that one of the most respected horror movies in American cinema has one of the scariest movie soundtracks to go with it. John Carpenter is the mind behind the creepy music that has become instantly recognizable. The simple yet effective piano melody creates an eerie and unsettling feeling that perfectly captures the tone of the film. Learn how to play it yourself.

2. 'Jaws' (1975)

Nearly everyone knows the infamous two-note tuba melody that warns the audience of impending danger in the classic film Jaws. John Williams is one of the most acclaimed film composers of all time, and his score for "Jaws" shows why. With a simple composition that sticks in people's minds, he created a theme that has become a part of pop culture and is recognized by movie lovers of all ages.

3. 'The Exorcist' (1973)

The Exorcist easily earns a place on the list of horror movie soundtracks that people love. The music for this classic horror movie, composed by Mike Oldfield, is haunting and atmospheric. The score uses choral voices and a variety of instruments, creating an eerie and unsettling feeling that perfectly captures the demonic possession at the heart of the story. Take a look at the sheet music for the main theme "Tubular Bells" and add it to your repertoire.

4. 'Psycho' (1960)

Most horror movie fans will immediately know the sound of the iconic theme from the film Psycho. The piercing strings and the iconic shower scene music have become synonymous with suspense and terror in cinema. Bernard Herrmann's score is perfect at ratcheting up the tension for the audience and making them more and more uneasy as they approach the climax of the scene.

5. 'It Follows' (2014)

A modern entry that shows the art of horror movie soundtracks is still alive, the music for It Follows has minimalist elements but still makes a big impact. Composed by Disasterpeace, this soundtrack is all about creating the atmosphere of the movie so the audience can feel the dread the characters are experiencing. The score has retro-style melodies played on modern synthesizers for a mix of old and new that add to the story.

These are just some of the scariest movie soundtracks that have thrilled movie lovers over the years. They all have different styles, but they all achieve the same goal: getting a reaction from the audience that places them right in the center of the story. Each score succeeds because the composer understands how to use music to connect with emotions and support a story.

Enjoy Horror Movie Soundtracks Any Time

Even when viewers don't realize it, they are being guided through their favorite scary movies by high-quality horror movie soundtracks. The music tells people what to anticipate, when to look for the villain and when something bad is about to happen. Without the music, the movie wouldn't be complete. By learning how to play the themes, anyone can enjoy the sounds of their favorite movies anytime. Find the sheet music from many of your favorite horror movies on Musicnotes.