The OotS Soundtrack Project

[Quarion Nailo]

Hey guys,

I've been reading OotS since comics were back in the double digits, and I've connected with it a lot over these many years.

I've also been playing music for the past half-dozen years or so, and though I'm no maestro, I (and a bunch of you!) have written some OotS-inspired compositions us all to listen to and enjoy. If any of you want to take up my challenge and write a piece of your own, be my guest and share it here with all of us.

Current pieces:

Quarion Nailo:
Greysky City Swing (https://soundcloud.com/phenanthroline/greysky-city-swing-v2)(SoundCloud)
Head to Head (Roy vs. Thog) (https://soundcloud.com/phenanthroline/head-to-head)(SoundCloud)
An Empire of Blood (Tarquin's Theme) (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/7d404f0353de08003dd03ab3de166f512879af5e)(Noteflig ht)
Breadcrumbs (Thog's Theme) (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/c30eb32d606f75031abaad28ae8de37098672487)(Noteflig ht)
Girl's Best Friend (Haley's Theme) (http://goo.gl/z1gVC)(Noteflight)
Feuding Banjos (Elan's Theme) (https://soundcloud.com/phenanthroline/feuding-banjos)(SoundCloud)
Fell Ascension (Darth V's Theme) (https://soundcloud.com/phenanthroline/fell-ascension)(SoundCloud)
At the Dawn of Time (https://soundcloud.com/phenanthroline/fell-ascension) (SoundCloud) (Making of) (http://goo.gl/b3kK7)(YouTube)
Smoke and Mirrors (Girard's Theme) (https://soundcloud.com/phenanthroline/smoke-and-mirrors)(SoundCloud) New!
Othesmo:
O-Chul (http://www.mediafire.com/?f7jfq83878agu38)(Download)
The Oracle (http://www.mediafire.com/?o469dac45iqoa3x)(Download)
Thor (http://www.mediafire.com/?4j3kzgqx9e7d2fl)(Download)
Vengeance (Malack's Theme) (http://www.mediafire.com/?ai3vtve3y3be12z)(Download)
Incom:
The Crimson Mantle: A Theme for Redcloak (http://musescore.com/user/44478/scores/62774)(Musescore)
Roy Greenhilt: Swordsman on a Mount (WIP) (http://musescore.com/user/44478/scores/62935)(Musescore)


ScubaGoomba:
The Sapphire Guard (http://www.4shared.com/music/bVxzI3XN/The_Sapphire_Guard.html?)(Download)

Curtis:
Xykon's Theme (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/0f29aac70178c44cb50ae205c15aa2ef50803ba6)(Noteflig ht)
The God of all Puppets (Banjo's Theme) (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/5c0ded005300a1e9463430d073bf6af243def369)(Noteflig ht)

The Underlord:
Call of Banjhulu (http://www.4shared.com/music/h_Z7a9u_/Call_of_Banjhulhu.html)(Download)
Sabine's Theme (http://www.mediafire.com/?w2x4q40sknfzjl8)(Download)
Jzadek:
Tarquin's Theme (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/3d65b0aed6a99bb9f2fa2188ddf5310547328635)(Noteflig ht)
The Snarl (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/4e6c5dc6fb34da83e37cc38eb2c96962cb6281c7)(Noteflig ht)

Vesth:
The Battle of Sir Digit (http://www.mediafire.com/?94v7ah8i3isz4l2)(Download)
Arcane Foray (V's Theme) (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/6be090cb4763571d0395925ad3b2951149ad5213)(Noteflig ht)
Shojo's Sanctum (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_KNYiJmECbE)(Youtube)
Celestial Melody (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/4cf89b809203bef993b4a3d8f536c043da9189e5)(Noteflig ht)
Mirth! (Giggles' Theme) (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/bb30ba8f01bf7ec8cf105469b92a0dc5dec5d1b6)(Noteflig ht)
Untitled song (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/d775c5faf80e301b17783bdef6eba36a37d1aa83)(Noteflig ht)

Ninjadeadbeard:
Right-Eye (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/a8d4fad7a6d07cf2d8ff320a3d6c7877f15779f2)(Noteflig ht)
The Plan (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/9666419cb4e05f17afda53b31fb12ac2a87b3d0c)(Noteflig ht)

petersohn:
Elan, Inspirer of Competence (http://musescore.com/user/48029/scores/69227)(Musescore)

Howler Dagger:
Durkon's Theme (Part 1) (http://www.4shared.com/music/KLpgxyXl/Durkons_Theme_Part_1.html)(Download) New!

Drahcir:
Because It's Me Duty (Durkon's Theme) (https://soundcloud.com/bovine-colonel/durkons-theme)(Soundcloud) New!

Todd Ingram:
(Download)[/SIZE] New!

Philip Engdahl:
O Buddy Roy (Vocal!) (http://tindeck.com/listen/odzd]Familicide[SIZE="1)(Download)



Requests:

Malack's Theme
Redcloak's Theme
Roy's Theme
Linear Guild Theme


Composing Software:

Noteflight. (noteflight.com) Online music editor. Simple, easy to learn, easy to share, free. Unfortunately, not very powerful, sounds very artificial.
Musescore. (http://musescore.org/) More powerful music editor (though not online). Free. Much better than Noteflight, but probably a little more sparse than Sibelius (http://www.sibelius.com/home/index_flash.html) or Cakewalk Sonar (http://www.cakewalk.com/).
Sibelius. (http://www.sibelius.com/home/index_flash.html) Paid music editor. Very powerful, all-around capabilities.
Cakewalk Sonar. (http://www.cakewalk.com/) Technically an 'audio workshop', it has very strong music creation abilities as well. Allows transcribing keyboard or electric guitar notes into MIDI files by plugging them into your computer, then recording. Also paid.


Possible Soundtrack Competition?

I'm probably opening a can of worms here by posting this, but I thought it would be good to get it out there.

I'm considering holding some sort of "open call" for OOTS-themed music sometime in 2013. The details are still very fuzzy at this point, so I can't really answer any questions, but it's something I'm interested in trying. I'd probably put forth a series of categories (i.e. "Roy's Theme," "Xykon's Theme") and let people submit tracks in any or all of them, with a catch-all "Name your own theme," category. I'd select one from each category and put together an album, which we would distribute to the masses somehow (possibly involving money). Copyrights will stay with the creators, with probably some sort of distribution license for GITP.

I'm mostly telling you this because I know this stuff takes time, and I thought you might all be interested in playing around with it now. The only other thing I would add is that I don't want any lyrics; I'm looking for an instrumental soundtrack only.

So, I guess keep that in mind. Also, keep in mind that I haven't listened to any of the tracks posted here and am going to deliberately avoid doing so until then, so posting them here will in no way color my opinion, one way or the other.

(Oh, and this post is in no way a guarantee that I will get around to said project, or that I will do so in 2013, or that I won't change one or more of the ideas above. So don't hold it against me if you compose 300 hours of OOTS music and then I crap out on it. Compose at your own risk.)

I'll write more pieces as time allows. If you're interested in hearing some of my other tunes and ditties, you can find them here (http://www.noteflight.com/members/8012c7d083d6039ad7344c16f1e6eb0da17e8206) and here (https://soundcloud.com/paradigmist/).

[EpilepticWombat]

Oooh I love this idea! I will have to save this site and mess around with it sometime.

And I absolutely love your song! It's very fitting for Greysky City I think!

[Beanie]

Nice track man! Although being honest it doesn't really evoke Greysky City to me; it sounds way too positive for that. Greysky is Not a Nice Place™, after all! The clarinet just doesn't fit that vibe to me. I really dig the tune anyway though.

I don't have time now but I'll definitely try and whip something up a bit later. It's a nice idea for sure.

[ti'esar]

I'd be more interested in seeing themes for characters and particular moments then locations, personally.

[ScubaGoomba]

Challenge accepted.

[TheMac04]

I think that the only right thing to do would be to put together a crack team of composers and musicians and release an album, kinda like what the Cave Story Remix Project people did. If this is going to happen, I want in.

[ScubaGoomba]

Yes, the challenge of sleepy is currently being accepted now, so if someone seriously wants to get some people together, shoot me a PM.

[TheMac04]

I'll see what I can get done.

[ti'esar]

Are we allowed to make specific requests?

[ZerglingOne]

Omg I love Head to Head @[email protected] laughed out loud when Thog's part started xD

[Quarion Nailo]

Are we allowed to make specific requests?

If anyone wants to request a song (on a character, scene, location, anything), just let me know (PM or post).

[Raistlin82]

The second one feels like a Monkey Island theme... :smallwink:

[Dr._Demento]

Damn, I am having great difficulty getting past the "drum machine" vibe. Cymbals don't work well at all with electronic music...

However, the composition is very nice.

[ThePhantasm]

Dad GUM you are talented. Those are pretty sweet compositions.

[zimmerwald1915]

Rich has the best fans in the world.

[Bleak Ink]

This thread gives me hope.

[curtis]

Well these are rather brilliant! I must have a play with that, see what I can come up with... :smallbiggrin:

[Gorgon_Heap]

Hah! This is some neat stuff.

Well done and thanks for bring it to us.

[Ron Miel]

If any of you want to take up my challenge and write a piece of your own, be my guest and share it here with all of us.

I wrote lyrics (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?t=133590)to Elan's song from #692 (http://www.giantitp.com/comics/oots0692.html)

[Quarion Nailo]

Hey guys,

I just finished Head to Head (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/acd302d4fcfe50a5d8f7f4e7ce2c7a139435714c), so that means if anyone wants to request a song, now is the time, because it might be a while before some divine inspiration hits me next.

[EpilepticWombat]

Request: Theme for one of the villains!

(redcloak is preferable because he's pretty great)

[MoonCat]

Hmm. Head to Head doesn't really sound like an epic fight with collapsing buildings and sudden OH **** moments to me. I think it could work for sometihng else, but as that fight... I dunno.

I like the other one though, it's cool.

Suggestions, hmm, Elan's leitmotif maybe. That'd be interesting.

[rewinn]

Hey guys,

I'v.

Current pieces:

Greysky City Swing (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/8b3f8e004352ae56d61b5c22a85382eaa7721df3)
Head to Head (Roy vs. Thog) (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/acd302d4fcfe50a5d8f7f4e7ce2c7a139435714c)



Awesome!

The Greysky one made me think of two buddies (a pair of theives or maybe Haley and her daddy) walking around in the gloom, up to no good. That seemed to fit.

The other one didn't work as well for me, I think because the pitch and/or instruments didn't say "Big@ss Fighter and Bigger Half-Orc" to me. It was a perfectly fine tune, perhaps for Belkar battling waves of goblins, but for Roy & Thog I felt more like something a little deeper and slower seeming (but not really slower). (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CHbYLjWEEQA)

But hey there's no accounting for tastes. Play on!

[Gorgon_Heap]

Upon some more listening, let me say I've a better appreciation for Greysky City now. SOme think it doesn't fit, but hear me out.

It strikes me as a sort of Guy Ritchie/Elmore Leonard caper beat underscoring a Robin Hood medieval theme. I love it.

[Quarion Nailo]

Awesome!

The Greysky one made me think of two buddies (a pair of theives or maybe Haley and her daddy) walking around in the gloom, up to no good. That seemed to fit.

The other one didn't work as well for me, I think because the pitch and/or instruments didn't say "Big@ss Fighter and Bigger Half-Orc" to me. It was a perfectly fine tune, perhaps for Belkar battling waves of goblins, but for Roy & Thog I felt more like something a little deeper and slower seeming (but not really slower). (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CHbYLjWEEQA)

But hey there's no accounting for tastes. Play on!

Would that I could, if Noteflight could make music that epic. There are only a couple of actually decent instruments: guitar, piano, clarinet, drums, bass.

[Vahir]

Thanks for posting the link, I'm going to use this as an excuse to try composing out.

As for requests, can you try to make one for Roy's death at the hands of Xykon and/or the battle of Azure City?

Edit: Oh yeah, and, I'm obligated to tell you that you are made of pure win for thinking of this idea.

[The Underlord]

I compose a little, but I generally compose for string pieces(mainly viola, since thats what I play). If anyone wants me to, I can see what I can make.

[Quarion Nailo]

I compose a little, but I generally compose for string pieces(mainly viola, since thats what I play). If anyone wants me to, I can see what I can make.

Hey, I play viola too! Unfortunately, Noteflight's strings are kinda crappy. The cello is ok, the violin mediocre, and the viola just plain awful.

[TheMac04]

So ScubaGoomba and I are interested in starting a full-scale project here, getting a whole bunch of different people involved and pumping out tons of music. You up for it OP?

[Quarion Nailo]

So ScubaGoomba and I are interested in starting a full-scale project here, getting a whole bunch of different people involved and pumping out tons of music. You up for it OP?

What kind of composer would I be if I wasn't? :smallwink:

[The Underlord]

I compose using Musescore mainly because I don't usually share it. It is slightly better, but it definitely does not sound like an actual viola, but I don't really care since I can here it in my head(this only works because I don't usually share it online)

[Howler Dagger]

So ScubaGoomba and I are interested in starting a full-scale project here, getting a whole bunch of different people involved and pumping out tons of music. You up for it OP?

I'll join. Like Underlord, I can compose and play music (Cello being my main instrument). Can Noteflight read other forms of files, because I use Musescore, which uses special files, but can be saved as other forms, like PDFs. If you want to see some of my work, I can re-post my divinity wars-inspired cello solo Svoboda, or show a new piece.

If anyone to have me write music for them, just PM me. I prefer string instruments (violin, viola, cello, bass, and any combination of them), but I could always try something new!

Anyway, sorry for the pitch Quarion. Your music is awesome!

[Othesemo]

On the Greysky theme- the divisis in the clarinet are a bit strange. I'd assume, given the minimalist score, that there would be one member of each instrument playing. However, three clarinetists playing to balance one bass would be a bit strange. As is, if I saw the part without any context, I'd guess piano to be the most appropriate instrument. Everything else is good, though. Schazzy bass line.

The Roy v. Thog thing is interesting. It's a strong departure from the tradition of percussion and brass representing battles, which I suppose is alright. You've managed the A, B, AB idea quite well, which is rarely easy. It's a good piece, but two warriors meeting on the field of battle is not the image that it conjures in my mind. The energy is there, it's simply manifested in a scotsman dancing a jig vs. a raging half-orc. Are you familiar with text painting? (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Word_painting) I'd suggest changing the piece to add in the sounds of a battle. Arhythmic, percussive attacks, drums playing a heartbeat, that sort of thing.

All in all, good writing. Very impressive, considering that you've *only* been playing for half a decade or so.

Also, I can both compose (reasonably) and play (very well, if I do say so myself) piano. I can sort of play violin and horn, too.

[TheMac04]

Can we get together a list of composers/musicians, recruit who we need, and put a team together?

[ti'esar]

As far as requests go, I'd like to see a theme for the Sapphire Guard (not the same as the Azure City Blues I see up there), preferably with maybe one or two variations for specific scenes involving them, such as the Ghost-Martyrs.

Bit ambitious, but I've always wanted to hear music for that scene, and I like the idea of it being a variant on an existing Sapphire Guard leitmotif.

[ZerglingOne]

Jeez man, is all you do make music? Yesterday, Head to Head was only to the very beginning of the Thog rage part. I'm...impressed. Thoroughly.

[ScubaGoomba]

Okay, so I've got plans for Azure City/Sapphire Guard, Vaarsuvius, and Redcloak. I was planning to make them piano solos to later be expanded, but I might just go with the expanded settings right away. We'll see where Finale and the piano take me over the next few days...

[lonely_cubone]

Hey, I'd love to write some music for this! I generally use Guitar Pro, which can export to MP3, but I could definitely use Noteflight for consistency if that would be better.

I love what you have already, Quarion. I can't wait to hear what you come up with for Redcloak's Theme!

[Howler Dagger]

Can we get together a list of composers/musicians, recruit who we need, and put a team together?

My current list is:
ScubaGoomba
TheMac04
Quarion Nailo
The Underlord
SheepInDisguise
Lonely Cubone

I am currently working on a Xykon's Theme (if anybody has a better name, PLEASE TELL ME) Cliffport Song (it was way to happy for Xykon) for Piano, Cello, and C Trumpet. Noteflight claims it can import MIDI files, and Musescore can save their files as those, so if someone wanted to upload my songs under their account (with credit given to me), I could do that.

[Quarion Nailo]

Jeez man, is all you do make music? Yesterday, Head to Head was only to the very beginning of the Thog rage part. I'm...impressed. Thoroughly.

I have school from 8 AM-3 PM (PST), but I'm a second semester senior, so I slowly write music on my netbook. School internet's not that great, though, and I don't have a mouse, so it's mostly just brainstorming for tunes.

I get home around 4 PM, and from then to 11 PM I can pretty much just write music nonstop, assuming I have some kind of ditty in my head. I didn't have much inspiration yesterday, so I just spent a couple hours messing around with blues scales.

So to answer your question, all I really do nowadays that's not sleeping or eating is write music.

[ella ventic]

I am quite intrigued by this idea. I've composed before and I have some pretty good piano skills, though it seems like both those areas have already been covered.

This has got me thinking about the first comic, though, and wondering about how it would be scored. Lots of mickey mousing would be the order of the day, certainly, but with an OOTS theme that can be either battle-worthy in the first panel or suitable to underscore comic dialogue... aggh, you guys, I do not need another project.

But it looks like I've got one. :smallsmile:

[curtis]

Definitely add me to the list of composers. I'm not sure I'll be much good, but I do have a little experience. Expect a Xykon's Theme shortly.

EDIT: I seem to be done for now, but here's the beginnings of Xykon's Theme (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/0f29aac70178c44cb50ae205c15aa2ef50803ba6).

[irenicObserver]

OoTS bandcamp???????

Nine Hells YES!!

[wzeller]

Quarion Nailo, prepare yourself for the highest praise the cosmos knows how to give. Here it comes:

Having just discovered this thread, I played Head to Head. My fifteen month old baby was about ten feet away playing with some blocks. As soon as Roy's theme started he looked over his shoulder at the speakers, totally entranced. When Thog's theme started, he stood up - still totally entranced. When the two parts joined together, he started bouncing up and down a little. The bouncing got more and more energetic and happy so that by the time Thog Rage started he was full on dancing around the floor.

It was awesome.

As is the song.

:biggrin::biggrin::biggrin:

[Othesemo]

You can add me to the list of composers/musicians willing to help out.

[Howler Dagger]

ScubaGoomba
TheMac04
Quarion Nailo
The Underlord
SheepInDisguise
Lonely Cubone
Othesmo
Curtis
ella ventic (?)

I'm having trouble deciding what part of OOTS my former Xykon's theme is, but right now I'm deciding it is Tarquin's theme.

[The Underlord]

I'm currently working on a saphire guard for a violin.

[Othesemo]

I think that I'll be writing something for The Orcale, probably for oboe and piano.

Question- I normally use Sibelius 6 for composition. I can save and upload .wav and .jpg files if necessary. Does anybody know of a better means of sharing it?

EDIT: And looking over what I have so far, I feel like stravinsky. It's a combination of 8/4 and 5/4, and incredibly dissonant/syncopated. Still, Tiamat is LE.

[Anarion]

Can I just say this is spectacular? Because this is spectacular!

Regarding the comments already on the head to head piece, I think it was perfect for the buildup prior to THOG RAGE! At that point they're not dueling that hard and Thog in particular was trying to talk and very relaxed. I think once the rage happens though, that it should take a significant departure from the buildup and be much more powerful and dangerous sounding.

Well done and I hope this thread gets flooded with talent.

[Othesemo]

I'm a bit confused on Azure City Blues. Normally, it's I (four measures) IV (two measures) I (two measures) V (one measure), IV (one measure), I (two measures). In this piece, it would appear to be the same except that you cut two measures at the beginning to make a ten bar phrase. I assume that this was an error, since blues are more or less defined by a 12 bar chord progression.

[Vahir]

Azure City would actually do well with the two planned themes. Blues for the trial, the imprisonment, and generally all the negative aspects of AC, and the Sapphire Guard theme for the battle, and for the paladins (Obviously).

[Quarion Nailo]

I'm a bit confused on Azure City Blues. Normally, it's I (four measures) IV (two measures) I (two measures) V (one measure), IV (one measure), I (two measures). In this piece, it would appear to be the same except that you cut two measures at the beginning to make a ten bar phrase. I assume that this was an error, since blues are more or less defined by a 12 bar chord progression.

Yeah, that's right. I knew something sounded off.

I just kinda got in a bluesy mood yesterday, and it just seemed so OBVIOUS that Azure City HAD to be blues (for obvious reasons). I whipped up some basic blues progression and got stuck. Hopefully I can get some ideas after I make some headway on the Legend of Arrrghcloak.

[Goosefeather]

My level of musical competence is such that I'm not quite good enough to really contribute in any major way to the project, but I can fully appreciate the level of talent involved! And appreciate it I do - looking forward to hearing more! :smallsmile:

As requests go, I think the Empire of Blood theme could be pretty cool! I kind of imagine it as similar to this (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Ss-T5BqY2M) in terms of general feel, though obviously there are probably many other ways to do it!

[Quarion Nailo]

So I started working on the Legend (Ballad?) of Arrghcloak (with lyrics!) when suddenly inspiration struck and now I'm going to be working like a madman on Azure City Blues. If it's not done by tonight it should be done by tomorrow, at least judging by how I usually compose when I feel like this.

[Othesemo]

Hm. I'm going to assume that you don't play piano (no offense). In the ballad thing, you've got the pianist playing a 12th (or an octave+a fifth). And this is while he's also playing with his right hand. Unless he's cyrano de bergerac, that's going to be quite physically impossible to play, I'm afraid, unless you've got a virtuoso (and 7'0") pianist. I can barely reach an 11th if I strain, and I play piano as a profession.

Next, you need to remember that having five clarinets playing outside of a full orchestra is a rarity. If you want chords that large in your melody, give them to the piano or guitar (or, pelor forbid, accordion). Meanwhile, just have the clarinet or saxophone or what-have-you play the non-chordal melody alongside the piano's chords (after all, that's why we're there).

[Quarion Nailo]

Hm. I'm going to assume that you don't play piano (no offense). In the ballad thing, you've got the pianist playing a 12th (or an octave+a fifth). And this is while he's also playing with his right hand. Unless he's cyrano de bergerac, that's going to be quite physically impossible to play, I'm afraid, unless you've got a virtuoso (and 7'0") pianist. I can barely reach an 11th if I strain, and I play piano as a profession.

Next, you need to remember that having five clarinets playing outside of a full orchestra is a rarity. If you want chords that large in your melody, give them to the piano or guitar (or, pelor forbid, accordion). Meanwhile, just have the clarinet or saxophone or what-have-you play the non-chordal melody alongside the piano's chords (after all, that's why we're there).

I used to play piano, but I can definitely see what you mean. A lot of the time I get so carried away with making my music sound awesome that I forget that it also has to be playable.

On another note (heh heh), I do think I've dug myself a bit too deep with Azure City Blues (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/183ca7283c2fed3831175d780040837fa6c371a4); what started out as a simple chord progression is, at this rate, going to become a feature presentation folk song. I have no guarantee on when it will be finished, but feel free to peruse and critique.

[Othesemo]

Hm. Fun. You're much better at lyrics than I am, so I'm not really the person you should talk to about that. My normal comment at this point would be that the parts a bit flat, but this is jazz. Any lead trumpet is gonna have no problem jumping this up an octave and going crazy on it. Same thing with the drums and bass, really. This is more or less a real book score.

Actually, now that I think about it, you could reasonably write this as a single staff score with chords marked in. It'd be incomprehensible to people who don't play jazz, but really, who else is going to play this? But it's good as a composer's score- I look forwards to seeing the finished version.

[Quarion Nailo]

I think that I'll be writing something for The Orcale, probably for oboe and piano.

Question- I normally use Sibelius 6 for composition. I can save and upload .wav and .jpg files if necessary. Does anybody know of a better means of sharing it?

EDIT: And looking over what I have so far, I feel like stravinsky. It's a combination of 8/4 and 5/4, and incredibly dissonant/syncopated. Still, Tiamat is LE.

Like I said earlier, Noteflight has good sharing capabilities but pretty crappy composing ability. However, if you can save your files as MIDI, you should be able to upload them to Noteflight, which would make them a cinch to share.

[Othesemo]

Figuring this out took way too much time. Anyways, here's the link (still very much a WIP).

I should mention, though, that this sounds much better on an actual piano (or on sibelius) than on noteflight.

The Oracle (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/03e40048c4e5c2f61e9ae309fad9a3981dd79c9d)

[Quarion Nailo]

Figuring this out took way too much time. Anyways, here's the link (still very much a WIP).

I should mention, though, that this sounds much better on an actual piano (or on sibelius than on noteflight).

The Oracle (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/03e40048c4e5c2f61e9ae309fad9a3981dd79c9d)

You'll want to edit the permissions in the sharing tab at the top of the page so that we can all view it (it's currently marked as private). While you're there, you should also enable commenting.

EDIT: HOLY HELL THAT'S AMAZING!

It's simultaneously entrancing and horrifying -- perfect for the oracle. I can see why you have a career playing music :smalltongue:

[Othesemo]

Sorry. I set it to that, and apparently did not save the settings. Does it work now?
EDIT


EDIT: HOLY HELL THAT'S AMAZING!

It's simultaneously entrancing and horrifying -- perfect for the oracle. I can see why you have a career playing music :smalltongue:

Glad you like it- I figured that this was a perfect opportunity to bring my talent for writing random dissonant stuff to bear. I'll probably clean it up and add a real ending over the next one or two days. It's weird- normally, it takes me around a week to get anything that long. Today, I just sort of started writing and didn't actually notice how late it was until I had to turn on a light to see my keyboard. Anyways...

Once other people start contributing, perhaps there should be a sort of archive available in the first post? I imagine that it would be considerably easier to keep track of the various tracks that way (and keep people from accidentally using the same topic).

[ScubaGoomba]

Does anybody know a good place to share a MIDI file? I tried using that Noteflight song, but the MIDI to website conversion process was just awful. I'm about 30s into the Sapphire Guard and just kinda feel like posting what I've got.

[Othesemo]

You use finale, right? You should be able to download your song as a MusicXML file which can be imported to noteflight. I'm fairly certain that you don't need a plug-in, either.

[curtis]

Xykon's Theme (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/0f29aac70178c44cb50ae205c15aa2ef50803ba6). I'm not entirely sure violins can play that high, but oh well.

To be honest, I'm not entirely sure whether this is a very Xykon-y piece. I think it works quite well for him, but if anyone can think of a better fit for it elsewhere, let me know.

[ScubaGoomba]

It's not so much an issue with importing the piece, since a MIDI can import, but keeping the piece sounding like I'm hearing it. The rhythms get all screwy, for example, and the audio plug-ins on Noteflight aren't as all encompassing as Finale's, making my timpani sound like brass and my triplets like weird sixteenth note bastardizations.

[Othesemo]

It's not so much an issue with importing the piece, since a MIDI can import, but keeping the piece sounding like I'm hearing it. The rhythms get all screwy, for example, and the audio plug-ins on Noteflight aren't as all encompassing as Finale's, making my timpani sound like brass and my triplets like weird sixteenth note bastardizations.

Hm. When I entered my piece, I had to spend close to an hour getting the noteflight version to match what I had actually written. The rhythms should be fixable, though, with enough patience. As for the audio, it's definitely sub-optimal. I know that megaupload got shut down, but perhaps you could find another site which would allow you to upload a .mp3 file? Of course, the ability to see the score in noteflight is useful for critiquing.

[Howler Dagger]

Xykon's Theme (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/0f29aac70178c44cb50ae205c15aa2ef50803ba6). I'm not entirely sure violins can play that high, but oh well.

They can, but they can't play those chords.

[ScubaGoomba]

Hm. When I entered my piece, I had to spend close to an hour getting the noteflight version to match what I had actually written. The rhythms should be fixable, though, with enough patience. As for the audio, it's definitely sub-optimal. I know that megaupload got shut down, but perhaps you could find another site which would allow you to upload a .mp3 file? Of course, the ability to see the score in noteflight is useful for critiquing.

Not too worried about critiquing; this definitely isn't my attempt at putting forth any work I'd put into a portfolio, but just an excuse to have some fun with writing for orchestra. I'll try making it into an mp3 later this evening and putting it online somewhere if I can find a good place.

[Othesemo]

Alright, I've managed to sort of finish The Oracle (it's polished and has a realish ending). I haven't exactly perfected it, but I'm more or less satisfied with where it is. I suppose I'll start considering my next piece...

How about... *goes to random oots page... Thor! I think I'll start that.

[ScubaGoomba]

Here we go. (http://www.4shared.com/music/bVxzI3XN/The_Sapphire_Guard.html?) For whatever reason, the MIDI decided to make the first note of the timpani sound like a horn but the rest is pretty much right on.

[Othesemo]

Nice- I like it. It captured the feel of the Sapphire Guard well, I think.

[The Underlord]

Wow, I changed my Sapphire Guard to a MIDI file and listened to it. God, the violin sounds awful.

[Howler Dagger]

Here (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/0f1b5046e5285d26c1295c02b02f2629f271509f) is the beggining of Miko's Theme. Also, is it me or does the cello sound like a guitar?

I found that Music XML files import WAY better than MIDI files to Noteflight.

[curtis]

Here we go. (http://www.4shared.com/music/bVxzI3XN/The_Sapphire_Guard.html?) For whatever reason, the MIDI decided to make the first note of the timpani sound like a horn but the rest is pretty much right on.


Here (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/0f1b5046e5285d26c1295c02b02f2629f271509f) is the beggining of Miko's Theme.

Hurrah for the Sapphire Guard, and all who dwell within! I really like these, and they match the subjects rather well.

[Howler Dagger]

Are we ever going to have non-noteflight performers perform our music? I hope we do, noteflight doesn't exactly sound good.

EDIT: Completed Miko's Theme! (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/905bd9b8d651baa80566dbfda6e0bd52ace4d78f) The old link shouldn't work now.

[The Underlord]

Ok heres my Sapphire Guard (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/b121e650b69249112aa4a084840c197195ea5ef4) for violin. The violin sounds pretty awful. Note to non-note flight users, MusicXML files transfger better. Edit: I'm also adding now two more parts, a harp and a (french) horn.` edit 2: So both french horn and harp are on the payed version of noteflight, so I'll upload midi files for now.

[Bleak Ink]

You guys are so amazing, I can't even believe it what I'm listening to. I actually started laughing aloud during Thog's theme and Arrrghcloak, they were so perfect.

[curtis]

The God of All Puppets (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/5c0ded005300a1e9463430d073bf6af243def369) now has a theme. Now all we need is the call of Banjthulu...

EDIT: Oh, and imagine it on Banjos (which Noteflight does not have) instead of guitars.

[Idhan]

I do like the soundtracks, Noteflight's quality aside. Do you really have to create an account to get anything from 4share, though? Ah well.

Personally, I'd like to imagine that in Order of the Stick, background music would be diegetic, and the more genre-savvy characters would react to it. I suppose that the IFCC had the right idea in I See a Red Robe and I Want to Paint it Black. (http://www.giantitp.com/comics/oots0635.html)

Like, when Tarquin throws a fancy banquet, Eine Kleine Nachtmusik plays in the background. A genre-blind straight man asks where the band is, and Tarquin explains that there is no band, the music just spontaneously starts playing in the background whenever there's a hoity-toity formal banquet.

Or, just as Xykon and Redcloak are about to conduct the ritual and take control of the gate, Carmina Burana starts playing in the background, and Redcloak can make a disgusted remark about how trite it is and wish that he had anticipated it and prepared a silence spell in his daily prayers to the Dark One.

And so on...

[Jzadek]

I've written a theme for Tarquin (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/3d65b0aed6a99bb9f2fa2188ddf5310547328635). I'm not sure it's as awesome as the rest, but I'm quite pleased with how it turned out.

EDIT: How do you get noteflight to be different instruments? Fortunately, piano fit for Tarquin, but I'd like to know in case I try anything else.

[The Underlord]

Now all we need is the call of Banjthulu...

Ask and ye shall receive (http://www.4shared.com/music/h_Z7a9u_/Call_of_Banjhulhu.html) edit: changed the website because it wasn't working before.

[Howler Dagger]

I've written a theme for Tarquin (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/3d65b0aed6a99bb9f2fa2188ddf5310547328635). I'm not sure it's as awesome as the rest, but I'm quite pleased with how it turned out.

EDIT: How do you get noteflight to be different instruments? Fortunately, piano fit for Tarquin, but I'd like to know in case I try anything else.

On the left of the staff for you should be abe to click on something that makes it select the entire part. Then click on staff: Change Instrument"

Also, I can't view your piece, you neecd to change it from private to shared.

[Jzadek]

Oops, thanks for pointing that out. Should work now (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/3d65b0aed6a99bb9f2fa2188ddf5310547328635)...

[Othesemo]

So, when I started Thor, I was anticipating a lively, clumsy tune with the dynamic marking 'Drunken Swells.' Actually, that's how I wrote the first five bars (albeit much faster). However, it just didn't seem... right. I didn't want to cater to the comic-relief type Thor very much- neither did the idea of the warlike Thor from the earliest strips appeal. What I finally wrote was inspired by a CD of actual norse music I've had for some time. It has some of my own twists, as is inevitable, but it largely remains faithful to the actual norse ideal (as presented by a $9.99 disc). I suppose the song is more about Thor the God than Thor the OOTS character, but that's how I wrote it (and once written, I have a very hard time doing any massive rewrites).

Second, I should explain that Noteflight does not support the French Horn unless you pay for it, so I had to use the Trombone sound. That's why it says Horn on the first line but tbn. on every other one.

But enough hyping- here it is. Thor. (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/02edcc72be8dbe89df72aa8c4702e852e923ae92) I might add more, or I might just cut it off there. I don't know yet.

[Jzadek]

That Thor theme is truly awesome! I love it!

[Dr._Demento]

Sorry. I set it to that, and apparently did not save the settings. Does it work now?
EDIT


Glad you like it- I figured that this was a perfect opportunity to bring my talent for writing random dissonant stuff to bear. I'll probably clean it up and add a real ending over the next one or two days. It's weird- normally, it takes me around a week to get anything that long. Today, I just sort of started writing and didn't actually notice how late it was until I had to turn on a light to see my keyboard. Anyways...

Once other people start contributing, perhaps there should be a sort of archive available in the first post? I imagine that it would be considerably easier to keep track of the various tracks that way (and keep people from accidentally using the same topic).

I like the music for The Oracle, but I'm not feeling the connection to the Oracle. If anything, the piece feels like it represents gypsies (in a classical fantasy kind of way) or con-men (a criminal, jarring undertone as they try to serenade you). I don't find the Oracle creepy or jarring at all, he is all business besides his snark.

Titles that come to mind:
Shyster's Serenade
I've got a Bridge to Sell You

Nothing in comic though, Greysky was darker than this piece and Cliffport was lighter IMHO.

[curtis]

The Thor piece is genuinely awe-inspiring. Probably my favourite of this entire thread.

[Othesemo]

I like the music for The Oracle, but I'm not feeling the connection to the Oracle. If anything, the piece feels like it represents gypsies (in a classical fantasy kind of way) or con-men (a criminal, jarring undertone as they try to serenade you). I don't find the Oracle creepy or jarring at all, he is all business besides his snark.

Titles that come to mind:
Shyster's Serenade
I've got a Bridge to Sell You

Nothing in comic though, Greysky was darker than this piece and Cliffport was lighter IMHO.

I know what you mean, to some degree. I actually considered renaming the piece Tiamat- I finally decided on The Oracle simply because I felt that more people would recognize it. Of the piece, I only intended for the Oboe to represent the lil' kobold in purple robes (And if you listen to the oboe part alone, you'll likely find it a good bit less creepy and more... capricious). The bass line was created to be more representative of his Goddess (and would not be heard by the people actually talking to the Oracle). It's imperfect, granted, but capturing the essence of 'Snark' with an oboe is much harder than one could anticipate.

EDITED to avoid double-post


The Thor piece is genuinely awe-inspiring. Probably my favourite of this entire thread.

That Thor theme is truly awesome! I love it!

Thanks! I'm glad you guys like it.

[Saeyan]

Ooh, wow, this is very cool! I'd like to try creating some scores too, but I've never composed before :smallannoyed:

Edit: I can also provide an alto/sop II voice if needed :v

[The Underlord]

So I'm going to upload two minor things soon. Curtis' Banjo theme changed to banjo via Musescore(If you put in in the OP put under curtis with some note mentioning me), and an updated version of Call of Banjulhu, the main change being the electric bass is louder.
Updated Call of Banjulhu (http://www.4shared.com/music/R2sYaUEp/Call_of_Banjhulhu_2.html)
Translated God of All Puppets (http://www.4shared.com/music/ZkbsAP2f/The_God_of_All_Puppets_transla.html)
edit: Fixed the link fail.

[curtis]

Cheers Underlord! Very much liking the banjo sound, and your Call of Banjhulhu (though your link to it is hideously broken).

[CloakedDancer]

Well I've never used Noteflight before, but I compose in my free time and have been looking for something new to work on. I might as well contribute to this. I saw the Empire of Blood theme on the wish list and had some ideas for it so unless someone else is already working on it (I didn't see anyone say they were in the posts I read) I will try to get something put up after work.

[The Underlord]

Any updates? I was working on a Semi-Elemental Plane of ranch theme, but it turns out the alto sax sounds terrible when changed into a midi files.

[Quarion Nailo]

I've been kinda busy with schoolwork recently, but I have an idea for Haley's theme once I free my schedule up a bit.

[The Underlord]

I was bored an didn't want to compose, so I wrote up this (http://www.4shared.com/zip/75pXJH4h/OotS_Soundtrack_Project.html) batch file for convience in case you have spotty internet or anything, so you can still listen to it. If I missed any of the credits, please let me know. Just realized I was missing Head to head's midi, so I fixed it, re-download it if you already dowloaded it before this update.
edit 2; I'm in the process of adding a 'play all" option to play all the pieces in the menu's order without having to constantly go back and maually start the next piece.

[AsteriskAmp]

If you are still taking enthusiasts in I'd like to join, I'm an intermediate pianist with access to mixing equipment and one year of harmony theory.

[Prime32]

I've written a theme for Tarquin (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/3d65b0aed6a99bb9f2fa2188ddf5310547328635). I'm not sure it's as awesome as the rest, but I'm quite pleased with how it turned out.It's a nice piece but I'm not sure how well it fits Tarquin, someone who hid his true nature - this song sounds suspicious from the beginning. If you added on a cheerful/grand/cultured-sounding intro, that could help. I'm also curious what this would sound like with more of a march beat.

[The Underlord]

If you are still taking enthusiasts in I'd like to join, I'm an intermediate pianist with access to mixing equipment and one year of harmony theory.

Sure, anyone can join, yo just neeed to write something. Batch file with the 'play all' option coming soon.

[The Underlord]

If you are still taking enthusiasts in I'd like to join, I'm an intermediate pianist with access to mixing equipment and one year of harmony theory.

Sure, anyone can join, yo just neeed to write something. Batch file with the 'play all' option coming soon.

[Vesth]

I'll join if you let me in. :smalltongue:

Qualification wise, I don't have. I have very little formal training. If it helps though, I played my compositions overseas twice, once in Japan, and the other in China.

And yes, I play piano. And euphonium, though I've never composed anything out of that...

Anyway, I've recently composed a song for GITP, though I have no real theme attached to it......

[The Underlord]

Who cares about qualification? You're pretty much good if you can read music. Anyone can join, there is not really a membership thing.

[ScubaGoomba]

Let's play a guessing game.

Q: Guess who sucks at finishing his piece for this project.

A:This guy D:

[avakeiya]

first off, am i the only one who heard this stuff and immediately pictured playing an OOTS gameboy game?

Secondly, i love what your doing here. All of the themes feel appropriate with the following constructive criticism.


I feel that the Greysky city theme was good but a little too upbeat to represent the city. slow the speed down to 90 and lower the tone of the oboe and its dead on.
Banjo's theme felt a little too much like a flamingo dance, and with him playing the banjo i pictured something more country for his theme. they may not have a banjo setting on the music maker so you might have just had to work with what you had.
The oracle's them felt off. The tune was good but the instruments didn't feel quite right. Again, software limitations may have been the cause.


Other than that, everything is good. I would love to hear the Saphire Guard's them with oriental instruments and everything else with a wider range of instruments. But you've definitely captured the order of the stick feel in our music.

keep up the good work, and throw in some Linear Guild and OOts character themes if you can. Thog and Roy were good and i can't wait to see V's and Z's theme.

[The Underlord]

For banjo's theme, I changed it into banjo using musescore on the last post of the 3rd page.

[Vesth]

Here, my piece! :P
A Playground Dream (http://youtu.be/_KNYiJmECbE)

It's been re-recorded, so it should sound better :smallbiggrin:

I'm not sure whether to change the name of the song to:

'Heaven of Lawful-Good'...

What do you think?

[Howler Dagger]

I'm working on Spell-to-Spell, V vs. Z, what instrumentation do you think would be the best for the characters?

[Vesth]

A violin for V, maybe?

[AsteriskAmp]

Finished the "Desert Trawl and Windy Canyon [Paso Doble on the Sand]". For some reason, the Midi file isn't storing volume info properly resulting in some instruments playing too loud and the clapping not being heard. Also strings stop sounding like strings and sound more like a bad synth. I'll try to get it fixed.

Now to correct the sheets so that they accurately display what's being heard...
File (http://www.4shared.com/music/qIyrmAls/WINDY_CANYON.html)

[avakeiya]

I'm working on Spell-to-Spell, V vs. Z, what instrumentation do you think would be the best for the characters?

Violin for V, flute for Z. Make V's part suitably complex to represent him/her, maybe multiple strings instruments and classical sounding. Go for an academic and dramatic feel, kind of like Dr. Orpheus's them from the Venture Brothers. And something simple and low tone and sinister with drums to play off Z's soft spoken and direct style and subterranean drow background.

Hope that helps:smallsmile:

[Saeyan]

Violin for V, flute for Z. Make V's part suitably complex to represent him/her, maybe multiple strings instruments and classical sounding. Go for an academic and dramatic feel, kind of like Dr. Orpheus's them from the Venture Brothers. And something simple and low tone and sinister with drums to play off Z's soft spoken and direct style and subterranean drow background.

Ooh yes please drums. Timpanis everywhere!

In my head the elves (any kind) always have touches of non-standard-orchestral instruments floating about by virtue of their strange elvishness. Though you probably can't get those in Noteflight.

I retract my earlier statement about trying to write something. I tried. It's terrible. But I can still offer a voice in case someone wants to write something choral :smallsmile:

[Vesth]

Ok, I've done one for V. Or at least I tried to, but then I sidetracked. Somehow.

Anyway, here it is: V: Arcane Foray (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/6be090cb4763571d0395925ad3b2951149ad5213)

Comments will be most welcome :smallbiggrin:

[Quarion Nailo]

Ok, I've done one for V. Or at least I tried to, but then I sidetracked. Somehow.

Anyway, here it is: V: Arcane Foray (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/6be090cb4763571d0395925ad3b2951149ad5213)

Comments will be most welcome :smallbiggrin:

You'll want to go into the sharing tab in the upper right hand corner and make sure that the score is marked as public and that comments are enabled.

[Vesth]

You'll want to go into the sharing tab in the upper right hand corner and make sure that the score is marked as public and that comments are enabled.

I thought I did that already...I must have forgotten to save. I've set it again to 'Anyone can view and comment on this score'. :smallbiggrin:

[Grey Watcher]

So, I played some of these for my fiance, and he commented that Head to Head sounds a bit like Tusk, by Fleetwood Mac. Please tell me that was on purpose for the pun. :smallbiggrin:

Even that aside, I do like the way that one is put together. You've got Roy's really complicated tune, Thog's simple, goofy one, and then the two fight.

Greysky's definitely my favorite, though.

[CloakedDancer]

Ok, I've done one for V. Or at least I tried to, but then I sidetracked. Somehow.

Anyway, here it is: V: Arcane Foray (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/6be090cb4763571d0395925ad3b2951149ad5213)

Comments will be most welcome :smallbiggrin:

I think this one was very well done. I appreciate how you pieced it together.

It also reminded me of the limitations of Noteflight, particularly the midi for the instruments. I have decided to continue working on my piece in a different program because I don't like the way the instruments on Noteflight sound. Of course this means I won't be able to share it here but... I really just don't like Noteflight.

[Quarion Nailo]

I thought I did that already...I must have forgotten to save. I've set it again to 'Anyone can view and comment on this score'. :smallbiggrin:

Just a tip, but the notations you're using for slurs are actually ties. It's a common mistake on Noteflight. Go into the menu with a crescendo on it, slurs should be in there.

[Othesemo]

I like Arcane Foray- it fits well, I think. Also, I love the hemiola. I imagine that it would sound quite good performed live, and the parts aren't too hard. The violin one might be a bit of a pain to sightread (7th position and all), but it'd be doable by someone with, say, 4+ years playing (and good violinists are a dime a dozen).

On a related note (heh), I've been sick for the past few days, but I'm feeling better so I'll probably start something new. Does anyone have suggestions/requests, or should I just roll a d841?

[Jzadek]

I'd like to see a theme for Durkon or Belkar, myself. I tried the latter, but couldn't get it to work.
I should probably add - I'm currently working on a theme for the Snarl, and dabbling with one for Julio Scoundrel (which I'll write lyrics for, if anyone wants to sing them). Just so we don't end up with duplicates.

[Vesth]

Thanks guys :smallbiggrin:

Although I'm a little confused as to why no one bothered to look at the previous piece I submitted earlier: A Playground Dream (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_KNYiJmECbE). Or renamed 'Lawful Good Heaven', depending on which one fits better :smallbiggrin:

[Othesemo]

Loved it. Is that live piano? It's certainly higher quality than most programs can manage. Writing for solo piano is hard. You've pulled it off well.

[Vesth]

Yes, it's live piano, because if you listen very carefully, you can hear a bit of the unwanted background, and a mistake I made while recording. Oops. :smalltongue:

[Jzadek]

Well, I've finished my theme for the Snarl (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/4e6c5dc6fb34da83e37cc38eb2c96962cb6281c7). It's quite a simple piece, with not a lot going on in tandem, but that seemed to sound better than harmonising. Maybe I'm just not good at harmonising, I don't know.
I'd originally gone for a more traditionally menacing tone, but it somehow seemed too small scale for such a threat, so I changed it to this more funereal tone, which I think fits a lot better - after all, the Snarl means the literal end of the world. The more melancholy style seemed to suit that more.
Anyway, tell me what you think.

[Vesth]

...wow. The first time I heard it, it was "0.o....Kinda nice, i guess, but kinda abrupt, and can use more minor chords."

The second time I heard it, it somehow sounded way better :smalleek:

Great job there! Maybe on page 2, where the right hand of piano comes in, bar 27, do you think it'll be better to extend the final right hand note to a minum?

[jidasfire]

Really enjoying this thread. As someone who likes the idea of character themes but has no musical talent, it's nice to see others who do.

Also, I'm kinda surprised no one's suggested this yet, but what about an O-Chul theme? Something that starts off peaceful, but has this understated wellspring of power that roars to the surface by the end? I don't know, again, not a musician, but that seems like it would work for him.

[Othesemo]

Also, I'm kinda surprised no one's suggested this yet, but what about an O-Chul theme?

Imma gonna take that, if nobody minds.

How did I not think of that?

[Vesth]

Ooooo. Sounds interesting to compose...I guess the beginning will be more oriental, with a tint of pride.

[Rodney]

In 2007 when comic 445 (http://www.giantitp.com/comics/oots0445.html) was posted, a guy recorded a version of 'O Buddy Roy'. It seems to be available on his web page (http://www.snowcrest.net/pengdahl/). I think it would fit in with the original compositions made now. Although, even it is available on his page, it might be a good idea to ask his permission to link to it, just to be sure he doesn't mind.

His rendition of the song was received very well on the forum, so by request he recorded two other Elan's songs, 'Won't you come leave the inn with me' (http://www.giantitp.com/comics/oots0238.html) and 'Bluff the stupid ogre' (http://www.giantitp.com/comics/oots0004.html). Unfortunately those are not available on his web page.

[Vesth]

In 2007 when comic 445 (http://www.giantitp.com/comics/oots0445.html) was posted, a guy recorded a version of 'O Buddy Roy'. It seems to be available on his web page (http://www.snowcrest.net/pengdahl/). I think it would fit in with the original compositions made now. Although, even it is available on his page, it might be a good idea to ask his permission to link to it, just to be sure he doesn't mind.

His rendition of the song was received very well on the forum, so by request he recorded two other Elan's songs, 'Won't you come leave the inn with me' (http://www.giantitp.com/comics/oots0238.html) and 'Bluff the stupid ogre' (http://www.giantitp.com/comics/oots0004.html). Unfortunately those are not available on his web page.

Oooo! Fantastic! Let's all ask him together :smalltongue:

[Howler Dagger]

Well, I've finished my theme for the Snarl (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/4e6c5dc6fb34da83e37cc38eb2c96962cb6281c7). It's quite a simple piece, with not a lot going on in tandem, but that seemed to sound better than harmonising. Maybe I'm just not good at harmonising, I don't know.
I'd originally gone for a more traditionally menacing tone, but it somehow seemed too small scale for such a threat, so I changed it to this more funereal tone, which I think fits a lot better - after all, the Snarl means the literal end of the world. The more melancholy style seemed to suit that more.
Anyway, tell me what you think.

You are aware the will NOT sound like it does in noteflight if you were to play in in real-life, due to two things:

1.If you intend on only having 1 cellist and 1 violin, the chords would have to be played in broken style. Otherwise, you will need 3 cellists and three violinists
2. It would be very difficult to play those ties/slurs, and would most likely be ignored. In addition, at measure 44 you have a half note followed by 2 quarter notes, all the same notes, so it would be played as a whole notes, when I presume you want them to be played separately.

Working on Spell-to-Spell, and I think I may grab Roy's theme. I am thinking guitar and maybe a bass guitar for Roy.

[Jzadek]

I am. But this was written to sound like I wanted it in noteflight, rather than real life. The cello part would be played on an organ, while the violin would be on bagpipes. However, those instruments do not exist on noteflight, so I used what sounded most like them. After all, the noteflight cello and violin sound very much unlike they would in real life.

[Othesemo]

Yeah, I did that in Thor with the horns. Perhaps you could change the name of the instrument on the first line? It won't change the sound, but it should alleviate confusion.

[Jzadek]

Ah, good point. I should have done that. Doing so now.

[Vesth]

Hey! Good news! Our friend has replied!
Hi Vesth,
* *I just skimmed the thread about oots soundtracks. *I think
it's a great idea. *I haven't had time to listen to any of them yet,
though. *Please feel free to link to my recording. *All I ask is that
you give me attribution for it.
* *By the way, I removed the other recordings I made because
they weren't very good. *Even 'O Buddy Roy' is just me singing into
a cheap mike with no accompaniment and very little rehearsal.
I can do much better. *If there is interest, I might be able to
put something else together.
* * * * * * * *-Philip Engdahl
Can Quarion put his song on the front page? With credits, of course :P
Also, may as well, Quarion, can you put my 'The Playground Dream' too? Or 'Lawful Good Heaven', but no one seems interested enough to comment :S

[Quarion Nailo]

There's no way I'm letting this thread die this easily :smallwink:

I've finished my next song, The Empire of Blood (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/7d404f0353de08003dd03ab3de166f512879af5e). In retrospect, it's probably more fitting for Tarquin.

Now, the transitions are pretty abrupt and the time signatures are a bit funky, so I probably will still do some improving on this one.

Let me know what you think!

[Othesemo]

Sweet. Definitely my favorite of your pieces. If we may record only one piece live, it needs to be that one.

[[TS] Shadow]

The Empire of Blood piece is really good. I've been listening to that a lot today.

[Vesth]

Well, I guess it's my turn :smallbiggrin:

I present to you: Actually, I don't know what the heck this is (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/4cf89b809203bef993b4a3d8f536c043da9189e5)...

You see, when I heard there was a request for the O-chul theme, I experimented a bit, and 2 things happened.

1) Someone else officially took it.
2) The music went in a completely different direction.

So as of now, I have no idea what to name this song, or what it represents.
A little help would be appreciated :smallbiggrin:

[avakeiya]

Well, I guess it's my turn :smallbiggrin:
So as of now, I have no idea what to name this song, or what it represents.
A little help would be appreciated :smallbiggrin:

First off, this is now my favorite song of the batch. I love the multiple instruments, the way they blend and compliment each other, and the way the song just made me feel good after listening.

This song clearly represents a good character or theme, but i feel it's not right for a warrior's theme, or a character's theme at all. It feels more like setting's music, the only one that immediately came to mind being the Celestial Plane when Roy is getting judged and then ascends the mountain to be with his family. Its not too serious or lighthearted, and the choice of instruments feels right for a good aligned afterlife.

The A Playground's Dream comes close but seems a bit solemn for a heavenly theme and in my opinion fits better as the Secret Lore of the Sapphire Guard's music. I can just imagine Shojo's narration and still-image montage accompanied by the song.

[Alagaesian]

Ooh, I love the idea of this thread. I can't believe I never saw this before. As someone with a lot of musical experience who isn't going to music as a career, I could have a lot of fun with this. Thank you for pointing me towards Noteflight, by the way! I've been looking for a software that lets me arrange music so I could try writing some stuff for fun, and now I can.

Due to the awesome inspiration that comes from finding something new and exciting, I've quickly cobbled this (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/1e61b89af2733e4c00d1c72f3a5ab79421f5146c) together. It's nowhere near a final product, but it essentially outlines what I imagine Nale's Leitmotif to be and, consequently, Elan's Leitmotif, which is that second bit after the key change. Clever musicians should be able to figure out how the two are related.

If no one's already grabbed Elan's Theme, I would like to expand on this quite a bit - perhaps by writing something about one of Elan and Nale's conflicts, like the Cliffport arc.

[avakeiya]

I like it Alagaesian. It shows great potential feels appropriate for Nale and Elan.:smallsmile:

I can't wait to hear the completed version.:smallbiggrin:

[Vesth]

...darn it. I was secretly working on Elan's theme. Oh well, I see whether it'll be able to fit Giggles :smalltongue:

Thanks Avakeiya!
I'll rename the songs when I'm able!

[Howler Dagger]

I'm giving up on spell-to-spell. I cant figure out what this is supposed (http://filesmelt.com/dl/Order.mid) to be.

[avakeiya]

I'm giving up on spell-to-spell. I cant figure out what this is supposed (http://filesmelt.com/dl/Order.mid) to be.

Its nice. I feel that it's too slow paced for an intense battle theme, but i like the dark and serious tone.

It sounds to me like a good theme for Elan and V's argument after he/she zaps Kubota. Or just crackle-skinned/trance-deprived Varsuvius's theme.

Add in a few more string instrumnts, a deep drum beat, quicken the pace a bit, and throw in some fake-Latin chanting and it could become Darth V's theme. Look at FF7's One Winged Angle or Vader's Imperial March for inspiration if you go that rout.

Hope that helps:smalltongue:

[Jzadek]

Really? To me, this really speaks of V in her current state - horrified at her past actions, and trying to atone for them. Amidst the darkness in it, there is a faint element of hope in those chords. Either way, it's unmistakeably V.

[Vesth]

Sorry- as much as I want to open that file and listen to it, my anitvirus claims it's a virus, and thus prevents me from opening it :smallfrown:

Anyway, Quarion, can you add Celestial Melody (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/4cf89b809203bef993b4a3d8f536c043da9189e5) and change "Lawful Good Heaven" to "Shojo's Sanctum"?

[Howler Dagger]

I'm curious on how many string instruments you think there are, because while I composed it in musescore, it almost sounds like I wrote it in noteflight. Current tempo is eight note=144, and trying to speed it up doesnt fit very well. Right now I am trying 166. I did intentionally write it in e minor for a more discordant tone (that eight not pattern you keep hearing? E minor arpeggios), and looking at it I can see how it could be a V piece.

Also, Miko's Theme should be in the OP.

[avakeiya]

I'm no music expert SheepInDisguise, just a random comic fan tossing out my 2 cents. You CLEARLY have more expertise on the subject, and the piece sounds really good as it is, so go with what works for you. Like I said it works as a perfect V's Descent theme (I suck at naming stuff :smalltongue:).

Also, kudos on the names Vesth, glad my ramblings helped:smallsmile:

[Elemental]

I didn't realise this thread existed until today.
Finally an excuse to try out music composition again!

Anyway, after messing around with Noteflight for a brief duration, this is what I came up with:
http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/8ed27ec29396448942506b909597416b1986f131
It's supposed to be inspired by the last couple of panels in the latest strip, but it doesn't really live up to my original expectations.

[Vesth]

I'm no music expert SheepInDisguise, just a random comic fan tossing out my 2 cents. You CLEARLY have more expertise on the subject, and the piece sounds really good as it is, so go with what works for you. Like I said it works as a perfect V's Descent theme (I suck at naming stuff :smalltongue:).

Also, kudos on the names Vesth, glad my ramblings helped:smallsmile:

And thank you for the ideas :smallsmile:

[Vesth]

Ok! My score is up! I present to you: Mirth! (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/bb30ba8f01bf7ec8cf105469b92a0dc5dec5d1b6) for Giggles!


I didn't realise this thread existed until today.
Finally an excuse to try out music composition again!

Anyway, after messing around with Noteflight for a brief duration, this is what I came up with:
http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/8ed27ec29396448942506b909597416b1986f131
It's supposed to be inspired by the last couple of panels in the latest strip, but it doesn't really live up to my original expectations.

Hey, this has a lot of potential! Keep it up!

If you're stuck though, I can offer some inspiration. DON'T look if you rather not taint your music with mine :smallsmile:
This (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/116607532ef3ab2ba0b71b706968d8b838f98b03) is an expansion of your current song. I would add more, but it's your music :smallbiggrin:

[curtis]

Going to take a stab at the whole Darth V saga. Vesth, would you mind if I borrowed the triplets from Arcane Foray? I kinda want to use this to link a few different themes together.

[Vesth]

Going to take a stab at the whole Darth V saga. Vesth, would you mind if I borrowed the triplets from Arcane Foray? I kinda want to use this to link a few different themes together.

Sure thing :smallbiggrin:

[curtis]

Done for the day. It's not great, but here's what I have of I Must Succeed (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/8be2777b59530fb275a4e0969760b7b1d614f06b). Not sure what I think of it yet, though it's turned out more triplet-oriented than I expected... (Hopefully this will cover all the V-related bits from #635 to #661. Right now I've only reached #638.)

[avakeiya]

Done for the day. It's not great, but here's what I have of I Must Succeed (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/8be2777b59530fb275a4e0969760b7b1d614f06b). Not sure what I think of it yet, though it's turned out more triplet-oriented than I expected... (Hopefully this will cover all the V-related bits from #635 to #661. Right now I've only reached #638.)

I like the idea of each soulsplice having a component to Darth V's theme, but as it is now it sounds to cluttered, like you have 4 or 5 different songs going on at the same time. All of them just hit you at once without letting the listener get used to how they blend and compliment each other.

I'm don't know all the music terminology, so please bare with me here. I feel like each of there parts is too...complicated, has too much going on. I see the sheet music for each part and it looks too cluttered, and when i listen its like each one is trying to have a full theme instead of part of a whole, like they're all playing the same notes at the same speed with different instruments.

Maybe you should keep each soulsplice section simple. Have one be a slow base/drum beat, another just be a slightly quicker string or wind instrument, and the third be that quick piano(?) section that's already there.

I would suggest just starting off with just V's theme, slow it down, simplify it, and lower the tone to represent when he's struggling to decide what to do after hearing plan-b from comic 634, then slowly add one soul's part as he comes to a decision. This adds some buildup to when all parts are playing and represents the splash image of his transformation in 635.

Other than that it shows some good potential. Hope that helps:smallsmile:

[Alagaesian]

I kind of have to disagree with Avakeiva on this. Some of your themes/characters, Inkyrius most notably during that last part, might get lost in everything that's going on, but your syncopation helps me keep track of everything somehow. As for the three Soul Splices and V's theme playing at once, they all have the same rhythm, so it doesn't feel particularly cluttered - just that there's a lot of instruments playing similar things at the same time. I guess you could start with a bare V's theme at the beginning and build the texture up from there, but it's all about musical taste.

If anyone wants a check-up on how my Elan/Nale project (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/1e61b89af2733e4c00d1c72f3a5ab79421f5146c) is going, I've basically put together two and a half sections of the Cliffport arc - the CPPD Blues, Setting Up the Board, and the first part to The Trees Be Attackin'. I'll probably add more after a few days of catching up on homework.

[avakeiya]

I kind of have to disagree with Avakeiva on this. Some of your themes/characters, Inkyrius most notably during that last part, might get lost in everything that's going on, but your syncopation helps me keep track of everything somehow. As for the three Soul Splices and V's theme playing at once, they all have the same rhythm, so it doesn't feel particularly cluttered - just that there's a lot of instruments playing similar things at the same time. I guess you could start with a bare V's theme at the beginning and build the texture up from there, but it's all about musical taste.

Just to clarify, my only real concern was the Soulsplice section, and because so many instruments were playing similar things. The tune and rhythm works for me, but it would sound better to me with more variation that blend instead of echo each other.


If anyone wants a check-up on how my Elan/Nale project (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/1e61b89af2733e4c00d1c72f3a5ab79421f5146c) is going, I've basically put together two and a half sections of the Cliffport arc - the CPPD Blues, Setting Up the Board, and the first part to The Trees Be Attackin'. I'll probably add more after a few days of catching up on homework.

I love what you have so far. The CPPD Blues is perfect, the whole 20's(?) cop drama noire feel is a fitting tribute to the late chief, may he rest in peace with an endless supply of pixie dust.

Nale's theme is coming along wonderfully, and it illustrates what i pictured for the Soulsplice thing from earlier. For Setting Up the Board you have the main theme on oboe and then cello, base, and violin sections that expanded and complimented the main theme without overpowering it. That is what I pictured for Darth V, a darker Varsuvious theme with soulsplice accents.

Trees Be Attackin' sounds great, kind of like boss music, and Elan's theme is so...Elan.

Keep up the good work.:smallsmile:

[Alagaesian]

As I said before, a lot of this is a matter of musical taste - I personally don't mind the way the Soul Splices line up rhythmically and harmonically, and I don't mind listening through the chords to find V's specific line, but I'm sure there are other people out there who would disagree with me.

By the way, the "music terminology" you were looking for is probably "texture". Something with no texture is a solo melody with no accompaniment. When more parts come in, each doing their own lines, it's called "building texture." Too much texture occurs when there are too many accompanying lines and everything sounds cluttered and confusing, as you have noted. Then again, at least some level texture is usually needed to prevent things from being too simple and boring.

Also, for anyone who hasn't caught onto this yet, Elan and Nale's themes are rhythmically identical, but they are almost harmonic inverses of each other. (They're not exact inverses because I set Elan's melody to a major key.) Whenever Nale's part goes up, Elan's goes down by generally the same amount, and vice versa.

[avakeiya]

By the way, the "music terminology" you were looking for is probably "texture". Something with no texture is a solo melody with no accompaniment. When more parts come in, each doing their own lines, it's called "building texture." Too much texture occurs when there are too many accompanying lines and everything sounds cluttered and confusing, as you have noted. Then again, at least some level texture is usually needed to prevent things from being too simple and boring.

Yes, thank you, thats what I meant:smallbiggrin:


Also, for anyone who hasn't caught onto this yet, Elan and Nale's themes are rhythmically identical, but they are almost harmonic inverses of each other. (They're not exact inverses because I set Elan's melody to a major key.) Whenever Nale's part goes up, Elan's goes down by generally the same amount, and vice versa.

I did notice that, and that's what makes their theme work. They sound similar but not exactly like each other and fit the tone of each twin's personality. Perfect fit for the two :smallamused:

[Vesth]

Personally, I find "I Must Succeed" a little too messy for my taste. Maybe, I dunno, let the melody stand out more? Let the music grow as you move, adding individual parts as it goes down the line?

Oh, and apparently, everyone has forgotten about 'Mirth!' :smallfrown:

[Vesth]

If no one minds, I'm taking over Spell-to-Spell :smallbiggrin:

[AsteriskAmp]

Cleaned up the volume, deleted the accordion line and some weird things which shouldn't have been there at the end and replaced the trumpet for a violin on the opening line. Noteflight however is unable to properly load the midi, so I've uploaded it to a file sharing site.

"Desert Trawl and Windy Canyon [Paso doble on the Sand]"
(http://www.4shared.com/music/aCCEyYFu/Sandstorm.html?)

I'm also taking over Belkar's theme if no one minds.

[Alagaesian]

It sounds very Latin, by which I mean Latin-American Jazz rather than epic Latin chanting. However, bits of it feel out of sync to me, like the guitar and piano parts aren't on the same page. This might just be my media player, and it's fine if the guitar part is supposed to sound detached from its accompaniment, but super-exact rhythms and steady tempo are general staples of this form of music. It'll probably help to tweak the accompaniment so listeners can identify exactly where the downbeats are so there is a frame of reference the rest of the rhythms can build off of.

[Elemental]

Damnation... I was going to expand upon the flute melody in the short piece I did, but Noteflight's down, my staff paper is probably on the Moon and it's much to late at night to use the piano...
I really need to get Sibelius...

[lonely_cubone]

Wow, there's a lot of music here now! And it's all pretty good! I still have to say Head to Head is my favourite, though.

If nobody else wants to, I think I'll take a shot at Durkon's theme.

[wzeller]

I present to you: Actually, I don't know what the heck this is (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/4cf89b809203bef993b4a3d8f536c043da9189e5)...

...

So as of now, I have no idea what to name this song, or what it represents.
A little help would be appreciated :smallbiggrin:

Actually, it very much puts Celia on my mind. So much so that I would have guessed you wrote it for her.

[Vesth]

Well, it's called 'Celestial Melody' now, so technically, it can refer to her :smalltongue:

[AsteriskAmp]

It sounds very Latin, by which I mean Latin-American Jazz rather than epic Latin chanting. However, bits of it feel out of sync to me, like the guitar and piano parts aren't on the same page. This might just be my media player, and it's fine if the guitar part is supposed to sound detached from its accompaniment, but super-exact rhythms and steady tempo are general staples of this form of music. It'll probably help to tweak the accompaniment so listeners can identify exactly where the downbeats are so there is a frame of reference the rest of the rhythms can build off of.

I tried to make it sound like a traditional spanish song (building of the Am/G/F/E - F/E (bis) progression) but the bare melody sounded a bit empty, and my idea of the OoTS adventuring the desert was somewhat more noisy with the concept of some independent movement but still tied to the central part. When I reworked the main melody into including the piano instead of just the strings (which didn't translate well into midi) I got a bit carried away and added some jump-y chord accompaniment which pushed the harmony more towards a Salsa beat, but I'm overall happy that it got into the realm of "Latin Jazz"-y.

Then, when adding the trumpet (which was later on changed to a violin) into the sheet, I wrote it into a different sheet since I figured I could tie its end into the end of a measure (which I couldn't, which I could only see in Notation Composer afterwards when all the chord changes where an eighth note away from the measure changes).

I've gone over the whole piece in a more "imperfect note timing"-friendly editor (FL Studio 9) and tried to fix the mismatches which were too close for Notation Composer to identify (or for me to edit without hours of ligating and adding sixteenth notes), changed the strings section to a choir (merely because ironically enough the choir sounds more like a proper string section than the strings I had previously), changed the piano part in four measures to match the scale over which the guitar drifted briefly, and lowered the piano and the choir volume and panned them into the left a bit and panned the guitar to the right and tried to find a way to make it a bit more metallic (without having to resort to graphical editing in Notation Composer).

The problem with the tempo is also that the percussion sounds my clavinova has are not recognized by midi programs, so I have to either slap a loop (which due to the tempo change on the part that goes along with the harmony change to a jump around 4ths would mean I'd have to have at least two of those and tinker with them extensively and the end result would sound more like an electronic music beat than a proper flamenco-latin percussion) or find a way to make them work (which is much more preferable since the base file already has the castañuelas and the claps, it just doesn't sound for some reason, or worse, sounds but is off time, if I get them to work it's just copy pasting them over to the latest edit) with the option of no percussion being the temporary solution.

If the dissconect is still rather severe though, I'll try go over the piano part and try to tweak it into something more subtle and closer to the guitar movement.

Second Revision. (http://www.4shared.com/music/gIcbEi11/Sandstorm_2.html)

[Othesemo]

...

I feel thoroughly outclassed.

I absolutely love Sandstorm. I'm not sure I would call it latin, but it's close, and I like the feel. I actually like the disconnect- the syncopation is just obvious enough to give that wonderful feeling of... involvement. It's one of those songs I subconsciously dance to without realizing it. In the way of improvements, nothing much comes to mind. The beginning sounds a bit weird synthesized, but it would be fine on a real violin. Apart from that, all I can say is that you're very, very good at composition.

[Alagaesian]

Much better. There's still a few places were it doesn't appear to line up perfectly, but now it sounds almost intentional rather than mildly annoying. I'm sure musicians playing it would cause it to line up much more nicely, but for now, computerized music-playing software doesn't know which parts are supposed to play on the front of the beat, which ones play a little farther back, and when these two might swap places.

Adding your percussion into this might easily fix those iffy areas, though, by making it extremely clear where the beat is. If there's still problems after doing that, however, I'd maybe tweak the piano part just a little bit to make sure that there is no disagreement on where the piano suggests the downbeats are and where rest of the instruments think they are. You wouldn't need a complete overhaul - you'd just need to make sure the piano doesn't accidentally flip the beat, which I think might be the problem here.

Also, speaking of the strange synth-computery sounds that come from writing/sharing music this way, the part near the end where the piano goes up into its higher voice gives an interesting effect. The synthesized-piano sound almost makes this sound like funk for half a second.

[AsteriskAmp]

...

I feel thoroughly outclassed.

I absolutely love Sandstorm. I'm not sure I would call it latin, but it's close, and I like the feel. I actually like the disconnect- the syncopation is just obvious enough to give that wonderful feeling of... involvement. It's one of those songs I subconsciously dance to without realizing it. In the way of improvements, nothing much comes to mind. The beginning sounds a bit weird synthesized, but it would be fine on a real violin. Apart from that, all I can say is that you're very, very good at composition.
Thanks.

As for the start, it's normally called "Llamado" or "Call" which is the invitation for the start, normally used before bullfighting matches, I did a minor corruption of one of the usual ones. As one would expect it's normally done with a trumpet, I however had to change it because winds suffer badly in midi. It sounds rather synth-y because the line is done alone, and even with the backing choir, instruments cannot solo in midi without it sounding absolutely obvious it's a midi (subtle ligatures and slurring from note to note are extremely laborious to get done and microtonallities are lost due to midi's note precision).

Also, I'm not that good in composition, I mainly just build from harmonies and use some templates and sample from other places (I wonder who will find the inappropriately sampled phrase in Sandstorm) and corrupt those lines a bit. It just happens that I have access to a midi controller clavinova, so I can grab an undeveloped harmony and record myself, print what I've played and build from there and merely add accompanying lines.

Much better. There's still a few places were it doesn't appear to line up perfectly, but now it sounds almost intentional rather than mildly annoying. I'm sure musicians playing it would cause it to line up much more nicely, but for now, computerized music-playing software doesn't know which parts are supposed to play on the front of the beat, which ones play a little farther back, and when these two might swap places.
I'm glad using FL worked, it's a lot better for fine tuning little tempo edits.


Adding your percussion into this might easily fix those iffy areas, though, by making it extremely clear where the beat is. If there's still problems after doing that, however, I'd maybe tweak the piano part just a little bit to make sure that there is no disagreement on where the piano suggests the downbeats are and where rest of the instruments think they are. You wouldn't need a complete overhaul - you'd just need to make sure the piano doesn't accidentally flip the beat, which I think might be the problem here.
When I'm absolutely happy with the sheet music I may get it into mp3, convince my sister to grab the percussion kit and merge both recordings to get actual percussion and decent sound quality.


Also, speaking of the strange synth-computery sounds that come from writing/sharing music this way, the part near the end where the piano goes up into its higher voice gives an interesting effect. The synthesized-piano sound almost makes this sound like funk for half a second.
That may be partially my fault, the piano backing dips into complex chords from time to time, which may be more noticeable when it goes into higher notes due to it being less muddy and the sixths and ninths being more clear.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _
I've partially started with Belkar's theme, decided to do what I've never done before and go full concerto on it. I've been meaning to make the opening chord and first measures sampling of a famous piano concerto/etude... transcribed to the piccolo (either C or Db, leaning more towards the first). Right now, Chopin Revolutionary and Grieg Concerto in A minor are my prime choices, both have a strong opening chord and feature a fast and hard descent that while meant for a piano could also be used for a wind instrument solo.

One leads to a more mobile piece and would force the presence of a number of instruments to at least ease the transition into something less violently moving while the other one leads into a more chord based performance, regardless, both invite the presence of an organ, which was the other instrument I absolutely wanted in to go along Belkar's duality.

Finally, I should be able to have the leitmotif ready to be abused in the melody, played subtly by the backing at times and used in a different key at the end sometime soon.

[Vesth]

Othesemo, don't worry. You're not the only one that feels outclassed. I just realized I can't comment on a score in front of araveugnitsuga without sounding like a simpleton :smallfrown:

[Elemental]

I'm working on expanding upon the flute melody I had previously, but it's going to take me a while because of a lack of inspiration.

[Vesth]

Spell-To-Spell (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/c1fba5a8694b1bf885c29d1c91d9d4e858fbdd28) is done! Comments will be greatly appreciated! (For both this, and Mirth! (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/bb30ba8f01bf7ec8cf105469b92a0dc5dec5d1b6)) :smallbiggrin:

[Howler Dagger]

I added a timpani (only because drumsets are a pain) and bumped up the tempo to my mystery song, but I'm having a dilemma on uploading. Saving as MIDI makes it sound like noteflight, but saving as .wav or as a FLAC file (but gives it musescore sound) increases the size of the music to >5 megabytes, as opposed to the MIDI/original which was ~2.4 KB.

[Elemental]

Spell-To-Spell (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/c1fba5a8694b1bf885c29d1c91d9d4e858fbdd28) is done! Comments will be greatly appreciated! (For both this, and Mirth! (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/bb30ba8f01bf7ec8cf105469b92a0dc5dec5d1b6)) :smallbiggrin:

Mirth is good for the God of Slapstick. And it's catchy too.

Spell-To-Spell is very dramatic, which I do believe was your intention when writing it.

Apart from describing the mood of the pieces as appropriate, there's not much else I can say.

[avakeiya]

Mirth sounds like a good circus clown feel, perfect for a god of slapstick. Nice base beat and the trumpet fits blends well and has a catchy tune.

Spell-to-spell is awesome. Clearly defined V and Z sections that harmonize and compliment one another. And the piano section reinforces the other section and gives the song a more dramatic feel. None of the instruments overwhelms the others, and the i like how you presented the violin and flute separately at first.

Nice, memorable tune, great feel. Good job.:smallbiggrin:

[AsteriskAmp]

Spell-To-Spell (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/c1fba5a8694b1bf885c29d1c91d9d4e858fbdd28) is done! Comments will be greatly appreciated! (For both this, and Mirth! (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/bb30ba8f01bf7ec8cf105469b92a0dc5dec5d1b6)) :smallbiggrin:

Spell-to-Spell sounds spot on. The opening reminds me of One Winged Angel, which is probably intentional. The use of dissonants gives it a characteristic tension which furthers the piece's theme. The alternation between the flute and the violin, and their play on minor and major harmony were also a nice touch in relation to the the same duality between V and Z.

Mirth does sound like Giggles theme. Two things however did pop-up.
The first one is that it's structure resembles more that of a piano's two hands than that of a trumpet+accompaniment, the bass movement, while independent seem to lack the usual bass lines like a preference for movement by chromaticism instead of by leaps. You could split the bass into several instruments, the jumping over root and 5th could be sent to the midi instrument pizzicato strings to achieve an effect similar to that in The Lonely Goatherd and use an oboe (if you have Crescendo with some volume modifications) for the independent lines.

The other one is that in some measures, like #10, the bass seems to go counter to harmonic rules, in #10 for example, the bass usually would go either in the opposite direction (C-G-E), or simultaneous to it (E-G-C) not jump around the chord (which for the bass instrument is also rare when there are other options).

[Alagaesian]

Both Mirth and Spell-to-Spell are pretty good. I especially find it interesting how you contrast Z's triplets with V's sixteenths. I would suggest harmonizing the violin and flute a few of the times when they share a solo line, though, to make it a little more interesting.

In my opinion, it feels as if Mirth isn't really suited for a god of slapstick. It definitely feels happy and jovial, but it sounds too...sane. It doesn't feel goofy enough, mostly because it lacks syncopation. That's not to say that it couldn't easily be adapted to someone/something else, I just don't think it fits a god that settles disputes with pie-eating contests and hits things with a magical thwacking stick. I know Mirth was originally intended as Elan's theme, but frankly, I don't think it would quite fit him either.

[Vesth]

Thanks!

@Araveugnitsuga: unfortunately, I don't have Cresendo. I'll try to edit bar ten when I have time though :)

@Alagaesian: in that case, I'll keep that name until someone suggests a better one :smallbiggrin:

[Howler Dagger]

So here is A New Vaarsuvius (http://filesmelt.com/dl/A_New_Vaarsuvius.flac), in musescore style. Changes include a title, a timpani, and increased tempo.

[Othesemo]

So, I've been working on O-Chul. I like what I have so far, but I don't have too much. I've probably scrapped everything I had a few times so far- that sort of quiet strength he seems to characterize is difficult to capture. I should have it ready soon.

On an unrelated note, would anybody be interested in recording any of the pieces? I'm not sure how we'd manage to do it over the internet (perhaps by recording 1 part at a time, each part recorded over all of the previous ones?), but it'd be fun to try. I think a few people have volunteered to play so far- is there a list anywhere?

[Vesth]

If you want, I might be able to fill in some of the instruments for recording - I'm in a band, and I might be able to pull a few favors :smallbiggrin:

[avakeiya]

So, I've been working on O-Chul. I like what I have so far, but I don't have too much. I've probably scrapped everything I had a few times so far- that sort of quiet strength he seems to characterize is difficult to capture. I should have it ready soon.

I'd suggest listening to Frog's Theme (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aOLqO56fiFA) from Chrono Trigger (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fMzkUriqXvs) for inspiration on O-Chul's song. The character is a strong, noble warrior with a theme that isn't too flashy yet regal sounding. When I read about O-Chul in the comics i imagined this song accompanying him and I feel that something similar would fit O-Chul perfectly.

Hope this helps inspire you:smallsmile:

[Howler Dagger]

I could get a violin, viola, cello, bass, electric versions of the previous, a piano, and MAYBE a trombone.

[Quarion Nailo]

I can get a viola, or a violin if I transcribe it in alto clef. Also possibly a cello, piano, or drums.

[jidasfire]

I'd suggest listening to Frog's Theme (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aOLqO56fiFA) from Chrono Trigger (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fMzkUriqXvs) for inspiration on O-Chul's song. The character is a strong, noble warrior with a theme that isn't too flashy yet regal sounding. When I read about O-Chul in the comics i imagined this song accompanying him and I feel that something similar would fit O-Chul perfectly.

Hope this helps inspire you:smallsmile:

Another good choice would be Cyan (http://http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bi_Zex0qILc)from Final Fantasy 6. He has a lot in common with Frog, including the archaic speech patterns, but with a somewhat more Eastern feel to him.

[Quarion Nailo]

I was thinking, why don't we split this into two threads: one for composing (The Soundtrack Project) and one for performing (The Orchestra Project)?

[Alagaesian]

Tuba and trombone player right here, which would be more useful if more people used low brass in their compositions. Oh well. The other problem with me is that it won't be easy for me to get access to decent recording equipment unless a Rockband microphone counts.

[Othesemo]

Well... I did have trombone in Thor. I'm also making O-Chul a low brass ensemble. Though I agree, tubas do need more love.

[Alagaesian]

Ooh, I always imagined O-chul's theme would be heavy in the brass area. I just can't imagine him being represented by the pianos/guitars/violins/basses that a majority of people here like to compose to. That's not so say that pianos/guitars/violins/basses don't each have their strong points, but the Firebird finale wouldn't be the same without a tuba.

Also, I've decided to extend the Nale/Elan project to go up to strip 400. I'm not finished writing out the Cliffport arc yet, but I have started piecing something together for Aboard the Mechane. I planned for it to be a tongue-in-cheek Pirates of the Caribbean homage set to a retooled Elan's theme, but once I started piecing together the brass lines for it, it started sounding less piratey and more regal. Any pointers from the marvelously talented musicians of this thread? I know I'm already fighting an uphill battle because most of PotC music is set to a minor key, while Elan's is set to a major one.

[Purgatorius]

I just want to say a Wow and a Thankyou to all of you who contribute to this project!

[Howler Dagger]

Comments on A New Vaarsuvius please? Alse, I support having separate threads. In the Media, their is a GITP band project going on, we might want to hijack investigate that.

[AsteriskAmp]

Ooh, I always imagined O-chul's theme would be heavy in the brass area. I just can't imagine him being represented by the pianos/guitars/violins/basses that a majority of people here like to compose to. That's not so say that pianos/guitars/violins/basses don't each have their strong points, but the Firebird finale wouldn't be the same without a tuba.
Composing in those instruments is mainly due to two reasons. Tessiture; guitar, piano, violin and bass simply have Tessitura: YES, meaning one does not have to look at the limits, comfort zones or limit to note holding while writing, it's a lot easier (which now that I have to write for an orchestra is hell, since I have to keep checking the piccolo's range and best sounding zone, and I haven't even dwelt on the wholeness of most of the wind section). The other one is midi sound, winds are probably the worst instrument sounds in midi, their sound is unnatural because it lack the usual modulation, varying strength and note transitioning. As such, hearing what you've just written be played out in such a way, may nudge you toward changing the instrument (like I did for Sandstorm, it's supposed to open with a trumpet, but a violin sounds better in midi).


Also, I've decided to extend the Nale/Elan project to go up to strip 400. I'm not finished writing out the Cliffport arc yet, but I have started piecing something together for Aboard the Mechane. I planned for it to be a tongue-in-cheek Pirates of the Caribbean homage set to a retooled Elan's theme, but once I started piecing together the brass lines for it, it started sounding less piratey and more regal. Any pointers from the marvelously talented musicians of this thread? I know I'm already fighting an uphill battle because most of PotC music is set to a minor key, while Elan's is set to a major one.
You could try a modulation to either the relative minor of the key you are using, or using the minor of your root as the new key. Or you could run the minor theme transposed to your root's minor and ignore the key signature's accidentals and use your original root's key signature's instead (with some minor editing so that it doesn't sound rather off since it's not a perfect method [though very useful for some jazz renditions]).

For the regal sound, it's normally the product of the brass being too high above the accompaniment in volume and pitch, if you lower the brass somewhat and heighten the strings volume and pitch (I assume since that's what the Pirates of the Caribbeans accompaniment and melody is made of). Also, percussion has a heavy roll in the sound of it, it has a march-line like cadence and it's what makes it sound less like a string concert and more action movie like. Making it louder could solve some of the issues.

[Vesth]

Tuba and trombone player right here, which would be more useful if more people used low brass in their compositions. Oh well. The other problem with me is that it won't be easy for me to get access to decent recording equipment unless a Rockband microphone counts.

Well, I would be using Tuba if not for the fact that it's Cresendo only :smallfrown:

Hey, what about euphonium, darn it!

[AsteriskAmp]

Well, I would be using Tuba if not for the fact that it's Cresendo only :smallfrown:

Hey, what about euphonium, darn it!

What about the theremin!
In all fairness, the euphonium is not an orchestra instrument (though technically neither is the piano).

[Vesth]

Hey, at least the euphonium is a staple in every symphonic band! I really don't get why do few people know about it even though it's everywhere if you look hard enough. The theremin? Never heard of it. Until I had to google it :smalltongue:

[AsteriskAmp]

Hey, at least the euphonium is a staple in every symphonic band! I really don't get why do few people know about it even though it's everywhere if you look hard enough. The theremin? Never heard of it. Until I had to google it :smalltongue:
It looks like a tuba, so most people won't really bother asking what it is. It's one of those doomed to be forgotten instruments, since it isn't orchestral, but not notable enough elsewhere.

The Theremin on the other hand is a wonderful niche instruments fun for both engineers and musicians alike.

[Dr._Demento]

It looks like a tuba, so most people won't really bother asking what it is. It's one of those doomed to be forgotten instruments, since it isn't orchestral, but not notable enough elsewhere.

The Theremin on the other hand is a wonderful niche instruments fun for both engineers and musicians alike.

The first electronic instrument (That gives you carpal tunnel syndrome playing it). It uses the human body's magnetic properties if I remember correctly.

[Vesth]

...I'm a euphonium player myself...so....

INJUSTICE, I SAY! INJUSTICE!

[Elemental]

Agreed. There are a number of awesome instruments out there that aren't used enough because they aren't part of a standard orchestra.
Prime example being the euphonium.

Also, I play tenor saxophone and piano, but I won't be able to help you with an orchestral project because I completely lack recording equipment.

[CloakedDancer]

Composing in those instruments is mainly due to two reasons. Tessiture; guitar, piano, violin and bass simply have Tessitura: YES, meaning one does not have to look at the limits, comfort zones or limit to note holding while writing, it's a lot easier (which now that I have to write for an orchestra is hell, since I have to keep checking the piccolo's range and best sounding zone, and I haven't even dwelt on the wholeness of most of the wind section). The other one is midi sound, winds are probably the worst instrument sounds in midi, their sound is unnatural because it lack the usual modulation, varying strength and note transitioning. As such, hearing what you've just written be played out in such a way, may nudge you toward changing the instrument (like I did for Sandstorm, it's supposed to open with a trumpet, but a violin sounds better in midi).


You could try a modulation to either the relative minor of the key you are using, or using the minor of your root as the new key. Or you could run the minor theme transposed to your root's minor and ignore the key signature's accidentals and use your original root's key signature's instead (with some minor editing so that it doesn't sound rather off since it's not a perfect method [though very useful for some jazz renditions]).

For the regal sound, it's normally the product of the brass being too high above the accompaniment in volume and pitch, if you lower the brass somewhat and heighten the strings volume and pitch (I assume since that's what the Pirates of the Caribbeans accompaniment and melody is made of). Also, percussion has a heavy roll in the sound of it, it has a march-line like cadence and it's what makes it sound less like a string concert and more action movie like. Making it louder could solve some of the issues.

Personally I think brass instruments sound the worst in midi form. Winds are pretty bad too, but the brass instruments sound so cheesy and unnatural. It's hard to get the epic sound you hear in orchestral pieces when midi is playing it out.

[AsteriskAmp]

Personally I think brass instruments sound the worst in midi form. Winds are pretty bad too, but the brass instruments sound so cheesy and unnatural. It's hard to get the epic sound you hear in orchestral pieces when midi is playing it out.
Language misuse of me, all of the wind based instruments, both metal (brass) and wooden ones, sound bad in midi, metal suffer the most though.

[Alagaesian]

I can also play euphonium - it's kind of hard not to when you can play both tuba and trombone - but I just can't get access to one to play for anything. My personal suspicion on why euph's haven't been put in orchestras is because their upper range can be covered by a horn and their lower range can be covered by a tuba, so there really is no use for them there. In a band, there are no cellos, violas, or basses, meaning that there is now a requirement for more middle- and lower-range sound, and as such, the tubas get delegated to playing down low and the euphoniums can come in to make up for the weakness of the middle voices.

Saxophones are also not generally used in orchestras, but considering that they are very common in jazz bands, they at least have somewhere else to play. Euphs, on the other hand, aren't common in jazz bands either.

EDIT: Oh, and I totally agree that wind instruments (any instrument that requires breathing into it to produce sound, as opposed to simply woodwinds) can sound horrible in midi, it's just that I believe strings sound just as bad at times. Just as different bowing techniques, rosin amounts, and other factors contribute to the timbre of a string's sound, different lip and throat positions can change the timbre of a wind's sound. In Noteflight, I can often hear the different instrument samples change sound-production techniques between two consecutive notes, then back again in the next note. It isn't just the oboe or the trombone, it's in the string sections as well! It annoys me a little, but it hasn't driven me completely nuts...yet.

[The Underlord]

So here is A New Vaarsuvius (http://filesmelt.com/dl/A_New_Vaarsuvius.flac), in musescore style. Changes include a title, a timpani, and increased tempo.

Am I the only one that can't listen to .flac files?

[Alagaesian]

You were not the only one. I say "were" because I just downloaded a bit of software that lets me listen to them...darnit, I can't remember where I got it from now!

Anyways, I really have no complaints about a New Vaarsuvius other than that it sounds a bit repetitive. You could revise this by varying up the accompaniment lines between repeats of the melody, throwing a few extra surprises into it, or possibly doing some more extensive theme-and-variation. Other than that, it sounds like a nice fit for the new V: determined, and a somewhat-tragic-but-not-overly-so feel to it. Somehow I imagined that V's themes would feel a tad more complex than this, but this will probably be fixed if you make each repeat of the melody slightly different from the ones before and after.

[Howler Dagger]

Version 1.1 (http://filesmelt.com/dl/A_New_Vaarsuvius1.1_.flac) of ANV! I'm in agreement that the MIDI files are driving me insane, which is why I changed to FLAC.

A few notes on the new version:
I changed the second repetition of the melody to be quite different than before, because it used to be a direct repeat of the first.

I changed the viola part on the third repetition, but I am not quite sure I like it.

[Vesth]

Since nothing's happened for a while, I'm just gonna post An experiment I made (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/30aa8663746e735f2739583f162db36a3235f006) to test out how a guitar would feel :smalltongue:

Any chance of this fitting into OOTS? :smallbiggrin:

[avakeiya]

Since nothing's happened for a while, I'm just gonna post An experiment I made (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/30aa8663746e735f2739583f162db36a3235f006) to test out how a guitar would feel :smalltongue:

Any chance of this fitting into OOTS? :smallbiggrin:

Hmm....:smallconfused:

It feels like an ominous theme, perhaps not suited for a battle but a high tension calm before the storm situation.

At first i thought that it could represent Eugene Greenhilt, but it would have been too elaborate for someone like him.:smallannoyed:

After hearing it a second time it seems like it could work for Mama Black Dragon's theme, for when she first appears then goes into her backstory and reveal of her intent to kill V's kids.

A third hearing made me think of Tarquin's "If I lose I get to be a legend" speech. It has a nice build up to the dramatic reveal and the switch between guitar and piano in the beginning would fit well for a back and forth between him and Elan.

Or maybe it could be the "200ft tall flaming letter" themes. It seems to fit well in that respect as well for the same reason.

My final suggestion would be V's realization theme after witnessing the draketooth massacre. Nice slow beginning, just looking around the room, then BAM!!!-He sees the mural and freaks out, and the rest of the song would fit his explanation of the effects of familicide.

Hope that helps:smallsmile:

[Alagaesian]

It doesn't really sound ominous to me - sure, there's some tension involved, but it's not nearly dark enough for the 200-foot-flaming-letters or Familicide kind of thing in my opinion.

I personally think it would make a nice theme for Shojo - all seems ordinary at first, and then it gets a bit more complicated and tense, but the major, regal-sounding chords at the end are enough to remind everyone that though he's done some questionable things, he's still a good guy in the end.

[Jzadek]

Version 1.1 (http://filesmelt.com/dl/A_New_Vaarsuvius1.1_.flac) of ANV! I'm in agreement that the MIDI files are driving me insane, which is why I changed to FLAC.

A few notes on the new version:
I changed the second repetition of the melody to be quite different than before, because it used to be a direct repeat of the first.

I changed the viola part on the third repetition, but I am not quite sure I like it.

That is genuinely awesome! My favourite so far!

[Quarion Nailo]

I've also been messing around, and I've made some sort of...song, I guess? I have no idea what genre it is.

http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/c30eb32d606f75031abaad28ae8de37098672487

[Jzadek]

Ok, so it's quite messy at the moment, nowhere near finished, but I've been working on a little piece called the Battle for Azure City (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/8f5481f7809289272107de90f1048c6194a84e83), and I'd like some advice to help me tighten it up a little bit please, as right now it's biggest flaw is that it's a bit rambling. Anyone got feedback?

EDIT: Quarion, I've no idea what it could be for, but I know I love it. That's some really phenomenal work!

[The Underlord]

@Jzadek, I feel obligated to inform you that the viola can not play any notes below the space below the first ledger line(AKA open c)

[Alagaesian]

Sounds like an exotic form of jazz fusion. I can sense some heavy funk influence, especially in the drums and electric bass, and a hint of Latin in the trumpet's phrasing and the acoustic bass solo, but other than that, I wouldn't know what to call it. Then again, I play/listen to a lot of jazz, and when all you have is a hammer...Whatever it might end up being, it sounds fantastic and is absolutely addictive. (I've listened to it about four times while composing this post...)

Anyways, the Battle for Azure City is coming along nicely, and though it does sound a bit rambling, you could easily make what you have work, as long as you make it interesting enough. That is my main critique here - as a musical person, all I see are the chords, but they don't appear to have much movement or direction. As such, people will easily get bored with it. Sure, there are a few interesting parts scattered here and there (most notably measures 15-22 and 31-32) but overall, there isn't enough going on to really grab my interest. Try adding some fast-moving texture to spice things up a bit, or perhaps varying the rhythms to something more interesting than quarter-quarter-quarter-quarter. You could also rework it to give a clearer overall melodic line so everyone will have something to pay attention to besides the chord progression.

Right now, a nonmusical person might say, "Nothing's happening!" and a musical person might say, "Okay, I see your chords and themes, but what are you going to do with them?" This is the theme music for a battle to decide the fate of the world, right? Unless you're still composing the introduction and your full intention is to make the audience itch for something to happen, it doesn't feel like there's enough going on. You have five instruments in this arrangement, and by no means is there a limit to how many of those can be playing different things at once. Don't be afraid to assign complicated or difficult parts to different instruments - we don't have actual players assigned yet, so there's no one to complain about it. :smallbiggrin: (By the way, I would like to say that this song sounds hilarious when played back at 200 bpm.)

ANV sounds MUCH better, by the way. All the problems I mentioned in my last post about it are pretty much fixed now.

[Othesemo]

I've also been messing around, and I've made some sort of...song, I guess? I have no idea what genre it is.

http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/c30eb32d606f75031abaad28ae8de37098672487

One of those wonderful times when the best response to a piece of music is "Awww, yeah." Two things occur to me- firstly, the grace notes in the trumpet are a bit distracting, and I don't see them adding much to the piece. Maybe keep a few for variety's sake, but as is it's just a bit weird. Secondly, just as a comment, I think that this piece would probably sound best if it were synthesized vs. played. Not that it matters, since it's synthesized right now, but this is definitely closer to herbie hancock than miles davis.

[Jzadek]

@Jzadek, I feel obligated to inform you that the viola can not play any notes below the space below the first ledger line(AKA open c)

Again, I'm not composing to be played. I'm composing so that something sounds good in noteflight. If I need to break a few physical laws, so be it. :smalltongue:

Anyway, thanks for the feedback guys! It's very much appreciated.

[Alagaesian]

Does anyone mind if I borrow some bits and pieces from their music, specifically from the character themes? It would help tie the separate pieces together, and considering how long it's already going to take for me to arrange the 40+ comics I have left before finishing the Elan/Nale project, it will save me the time and effort of inventing a bunch of tag melodies for each character for when they enter the scene. I'm not going to blatantly copy-paste anything, but I might end up borrowing a measure or two of the melody, putting it on a different melodic instrument, and grafting it into what I already have.

[Quarion Nailo]

Does anyone mind if I borrow some bits and pieces from their music, specifically from the character themes? It would help tie the separate pieces together, and considering how long it's already going to take for me to arrange the 40+ comics I have left before finishing the Elan/Nale project, it will save me the time and effort of inventing a bunch of tag melodies for each character for when they enter the scene. I'm not going to blatantly copy-paste anything, but I might end up borrowing a measure or two of the melody, putting it on a different melodic instrument, and grafting it into what I already have.

Which pieces specifically are we talking about?

[CloakedDancer]

Does anyone mind if I borrow some bits and pieces from their music, specifically from the character themes? It would help tie the separate pieces together, and considering how long it's already going to take for me to arrange the 40+ comics I have left before finishing the Elan/Nale project, it will save me the time and effort of inventing a bunch of tag melodies for each character for when they enter the scene. I'm not going to blatantly copy-paste anything, but I might end up borrowing a measure or two of the melody, putting it on a different melodic instrument, and grafting it into what I already have.

I wouldn't if I was actually still working on mine through Noteflight. When I was working through Noteflight I thought it would be pretty cool if different themes and sections were used throughout related pieces. I even experimented adding in a few other themes and liked the results. I've always liked soundtracks that do this. It gives the overall work a unified feeling.

[Alagaesian]

Which pieces specifically are we talking about?

My actually-concrete plans were to vaguely reference Roy's Theme a few times in his fight against Sabine and use two measures of Thog's as a sort of joke farther down the road. Also, I was asking this question in advance to any people who might be secretly working on a Haley/Durkon/Belkar's theme. Especially with Haley, I might have to completely invent her musical identity to properly incorporate her into my piece, and I don't want to step on anyone's toes if they're already working on her.

[AsteriskAmp]

My actually-concrete plans were to vaguely reference Roy's Theme a few times in his fight against Sabine and use two measures of Thog's as a sort of joke farther down the road. Also, I was asking this question in advance to any people who might be secretly working on a Haley/Durkon/Belkar's theme. Especially with Haley, I might have to completely invent her musical identity to properly incorporate her into my piece, and I don't want to step on anyone's toes if they're already working on her.
I'm not so subtly working on Belkar's Concerto for Piccolo with Strings, Organ and Brass.

Just finished the first movement, Mortem Incarnatus.
I'll get the leitmotif on midi posted since the theme itself is unhearable in midi format and I'd much rather finish everything before recording it.

[Howler Dagger]

I'm not so subtly working on Belkar's Concerto for Piccolo with Strings, Organ and Brass.

Just finished the first movement, Mortem Incarnatus.
I'll get the leitmotif on midi posted since the theme itself is unhearable in midi format and I'd much rather finish everything before recording it.

Does it end with the Pccolo violently murdering the strings and brass? :smalltongue:

Also, I plan on using parts of head-to-head in Roy's Theme and maybbe p[arts of Thor for Durkon.

We should do songs for Sticktales, like Greenhilt, Prince of Denmark.

[Alagaesian]

...It took me a few moments, but I realized that "Mortem Incarnatus" probably translates to "Death Incarnate." I am a firm believer that any instrument can operate within wide range of styles, but hearing a piccolo concerto of Belkar should still be interesting.

Unfortunately for me, the only Sticktales I will probably ever own is Haleo and Julelan, and even if I do end up with its PDF sometime in the near future and decide to put something together for it, I probably won't get around to doing anything with it until after I finish the Elan/Nale project that doesn't currently have any name because there aren't any definitive arc words/phrases for it.

[Quarion Nailo]

My actually-concrete plans were to vaguely reference Roy's Theme a few times in his fight against Sabine and use two measures of Thog's as a sort of joke farther down the road. Also, I was asking this question in advance to any people who might be secretly working on a Haley/Durkon/Belkar's theme. Especially with Haley, I might have to completely invent her musical identity to properly incorporate her into my piece, and I don't want to step on anyone's toes if they're already working on her.

Fine with me.

Also, for those keeping track, stay tuned for Thog's theme.

[Alagaesian]

Something tells me that Thog's actually theme isn't going to be the jazz fusion you whipped up. It sounds a bit too funky for Thog, even though it's my favorite of all the things composed so far on this thread. Also, after taking a closer look at it, I've discovered that the trumpet part is very playable, almost trumpet-friendly, though I suppose the basses might complain about the number of flats involved in the key signature.

[Mr. Pants]

I think Xykon's theme should be more scary...:smallannoyed:

[Alagaesian]

*listens to jazz fusion thing again because it's awesome*
...
Oh, I see what you did there. :smallwink:

[Othesemo]

*whistles* O-Chul is taking a very, very long time. Who'd a thunk that writing for him would be so hard? I've got it up to... 00:57 so far. Screw it, I'm just going to post my draft here and hope that the comments will give me inspiration.

Here's a WAV file (http://www.4shared.com/music/TEmgrNZH/O-Chul.html)
And, if you'd like to see the score, here's an XML file (http://www.4shared.com/document/84EZh4EV/O-Chul.html?)

As to why I'm not using noteflight... this song sounds terrible on it. If you enter it into noteflight for viewing purposes, I advise against playing it. Also, the instrumentation thus far is Alto Trombone, Tenor Trombone, and Euphonium.

[Vesth]

...euphonium???

What software do you use to get euphonium?!

[Howler Dagger]

I know Musescore has Euphonium, and it's free, so I would hope the good ones that you pay for would have it.

[Elemental]

Sibelius definitely has it, which is yet another reason I need to go get it.
I personally can't play euphonium, but it certainly has a nice sound.

[Othesemo]

Yep, Sibelius 6. I got it a few months after it was released (updated from Sib 4, so it was fairly cheap). I mostly got it for the improved sound, which seems to have been a good deal.

[Howler Dagger]

So, I've been working on Durkon's Theme, but I'm not sure if it is long enough, because its ~30 measures, not including repeats. Also, I am not sure if I like my instrumentation (Trombone, Dulcimer, Bagpipes, Timpani, and Violin)

(Unsubtle nudge)Quarion Nailo, can you put Miko's Theme and a New Vaarsuvius in the OP?

[Quarion Nailo]

Without further ado, I give you Breadcrumbs (Thog's Theme) (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/c30eb32d606f75031abaad28ae8de37098672487).

EDIT: In retrospect, I'm not completely sold on this being Thog's theme. Does anyone else have any better ideas?

[Alagaesian]

For some reason, I can't think of any super-good fits for it. This probably has something to do with the fact that I've never really connected OotS with this style of music before. If anything, I'd say it best fits being a theme for either Sandsedge or the Azure City new year, for some reason.

Also, if this was going to eventually be performed, I would suggest playing the electric bass as a synthesized keyboard part. It would still give the same general feel if you tuned the synth just right, with the added bonus of being playable. (If those super-high notes are playable on an actual electric bass in practice, then forget I said anything.)

[Vesth]

Without further ado, I give you Breadcrumbs (Thog's Theme) (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/c30eb32d606f75031abaad28ae8de37098672487).

EDIT: In retrospect, I'm not completely sold on this being Thog's theme. Does anyone else have any better ideas?

Hmm...makes me think of that thieves' guild Haley left, or that Loki Priest that healed up Belkar. Can't really find that comic page at the moment :smallannoyed:

Great job though!

[ZLotMors]

I've always liked music; I think this project is a great idea. I've even hopped on and did just a tiny bit. Combined, my works are about 20 seconds long. I'd think it a reasonable amount after half an hour of exploration.

"no title" (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/9ab1bf03cc329e2b96d152bebf04f839342b2c24)
"The Wrong Statements" (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/dcc0e77977a283242ca8c4dbb757789af1929f3b)

[Vesth]

After much consideration from the comments (and a little head-scratching), I decided to submit my guitar-piano piece as "Pulling the Strings (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/30aa8663746e735f2739583f162db36a3235f006)", though if anyone can give a better name, I'll be glad to hear it :smallbiggrin:

Also: I've run out of NoteFlight space. I have finally hit the 10 score limit :smallannoyed:

As such, for my 10th score, I decided to come up with something epic*. And, as with my other pieces, I still need deciding where it should go. I was briefly considering the whole deal with the snarl being imprisoned, peaceful for a time, but then the fight begins again, but I'll prefer to hear what you guys think first :smallbiggrin:

Anyway, enough rambling. Here it is! (http://www.noteflight.com/scores/view/d775c5faf80e301b17783bdef6eba36a37d1aa83)

*An attempt at being epic does not mean it is epic.

Also, my score has a bit of a scrolling problem. It doesn't seem to auto-scroll for some of the pages. Anyone else experience this problem?

[Quarion Nailo]

Also, my score has a bit of a scrolling problem. It doesn't seem to auto-scroll for some of the pages. Anyone else experience this problem?

If your score doesn't scroll in page view, try switching it to strip view. It's always worked for me like that.

[Alagaesian]

Your epic piece does indeed sound epic. It does a very good job of passing the melody around different parts and makes good use of counter-melodies and active accompaniment. It sounds like something I might listen to as a video game or movie score - engaging, but not intrusive.

I have two critiques on this, however. The first is to add a few light touches of accompaniment to the piano solo in bars 21-29. You don't even have to do much, just a sprinkle of left-hand piano or something to add a dash of texture to remind the audience where the downbeat is and where the chord progression is going. You wouldn't need it if the solo was less than around 6 bars long, but since it lasts a bit longer than that, the energy you've built up to this point will dissipate somewhat unless you put in a bit of texture to keep the audience engaged.

The second critique is one word: dynamics. Sure, layering different parts together often gives a natural boost to the dynamic level, but I can really see this piece coming alive with the addition of some variation from the standard mezzo-forte. Crescendos and decrescendos would also add quite a bit to this piece, but sadly, the playback on Noteflight likes to ignore them. If you want this piece to eventually be played by humans, however, you should seriously consider putting them in anyways.

EDIT: Also, I have tried watching this in both page view and strip view. Neither scrolls along with the playback properly.
EDIT2: Now that I'm thinking about it, sounds like it could make a good Order of the Scribble theme. The tense and foreboding beginning represents the Snarl starting to come through into the world (in five different instruments places, no less). The Order of the Scribble forms around bar 30, and they have some good times adventuring and making friends with each other. I imagine Soon's theme to be in bars 55-68, and Girard's in 69-80, both displaying some minor chords and tension while displaying different tones and styles that are somewhat incompatible with each other. Then, the Scribble's argument begins in 83 and grows darker and more violent until you reach the point of no return and the piece ends with the Scribbles suddenly breaking up.

[Howler Dagger]

I'm sorry Vesth, but I have to ask: based on the way your wrote the trombone part, it seems to me like you are unaware the bass clef is completely different from treble, so it caused you to write third/sixth off from what you intended. Also, may I ask why you felt it was necessary to write in the G natural at measure 20 in the trombone part, when there are no G sharps/flats it the measure/key signature?

[Vesth]

It's on purpose actually :smallbiggrin:

For chords. But if you think it sounds nicer if it's all the same notes, I'll change it :smalltongue:

And ya, I'll get around to removing that G natural thing.

[ZLotMors]

Vesth, I notice that the flute solo at 30 sounds a lot like the Athletic theme from Super Mario. Just a coincidence?

[Vesth]

...wha? They sound similar? :smalleek:

*searches Athletic theme from Super Mario on google*

It sounds different :O

[Othesemo]

Well, after about a month of arduous composing, and equally arduous forgetting-that-I-should-be-composing-and-instead-doing-something-else-ing, O-Chul has been completed (mostly). Unfortunately, it remains unsupported by Noteflight. So, I'll just upload a WAV file. Now, since this is using Sibelius 6 for sound instead of Noteflight, it naturally sounds a heck of a lot better. So, as long as I'm uploading a higher quality version of O-Chul, why not do the same for my other pieces?

So, here are the high quality recordings of Thor, The Oracle, and O-Chul. (http://www.4shared.com/folder/Dwp3tKoc/Finished_Works.html) I've also included XML files for anyone interested in seeing the score. You should be able to listen to the WAV files without downloading them- just click on the song that you'd like, then play it (note that this requires that you have a 4shared account). If you don't have a 4shared account, or want to look at the score, just click the file you want from the list and download it.

Anyways, I'd love to hear any feedback on O-Chul. It definitely took more effort than the other two, and I'm curious what everyone thinks of it.

[Howler Dagger]

I finally got around to finishing Durkon's Theme. (http://filesmelt.com/dl/Durkons_Theme.wav) You may notice parts of it seem suspiciously similar to Thor, and this is no accident, as I felt it would be cool to have continuity between the priest and his god. Anyway, for those wondering I am using a Trombone, Violin, Bagpipe, Dulcimer, and Timpani.

[Howler Dagger]

It's on purpose actually :smallbiggrin:

For chords. But if you think it sounds nicer if it's all the same notes, I'll change it :smalltongue:

And ya, I'll get around to removing that G natural thing.

In which case, you may want to consider changing it to G#, to keep with the other notes being raised by a half-step.

Anyway, here (http://filesmelt.com/dl/Untitled-OOTS.wav) is the start of a new song I am writing.

[The Underlord]

I give you Fall of the Gods (http://www.4shared.com/file/5003qEEq/Fall_of_the_Gods.html?)!

[Howler Dagger]

Can you please upload Fall of the Gods as .wav? I can't read FLAC files on my new computer, and for whatever reason the official FLAC reader doesn't work.

[Othesemo]

Well, I'm noticing a sudden influx of not having any work, so I can start composing again. If anyone has requests, I'll take 'em.