Friday, 13 March 2015

Research: Philip Chambon

Philip Chambon is a critically recognised composer most notable for his soundtrack that was created for 'Swansong' by Christopher Bruce in 1987. This dance piece was inspired by the work of Amnesty International. Chambon created the electro-acoustic accompaniment using naturalistic sounds (screams/ birds/ bells/ trains e.c.t.) found objects such as pots/ glass/ doors e.c.t.

It was this soundtrack that he had created that had been the reason behind the underlying tension created within the dance piece. This was done through the melancholic composition and the use of minor notes/ chords. A short sample from Swansong is below.


"Crash and 8's" – Philip Chambon

This piece of music begins with a loud crash that immediately sets the mood and creates tension within the work. Once the crash sound has faded a fast paced melodic track begins (created using pans, pots and a synth). This track's fast tempo makes the listener feel rushed and uncomfortable.


I plan on using a few of these tracks to create tension and also to create my own compositions inspired by Chambon's work to use in my films. The use of minor chords/notes create a sad atmosphere and Majors create an uplifting vibe. Chambon cleverly combines the two in unison and turns the melodies into distant uncomfortable compositions.


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