John Williams' Secret Ingredient: Suspensions
Discover how John Williams uses suspensions to create life and energy in his iconic film scores.
Understanding Suspensions
Suspensions are a common musical technique where a chord tone is held over while other parts change, creating a momentary dissonance before resolving. In John Williams' music, this technique is used extensively, particularly in background parts. It adds a constant push and pull of tension, making the music pulse and vibrate, never quite at rest.
1
Preparation
The suspended note starts as a consonant chord tone.
2
Suspension
The note is held while other parts change, creating dissonance.
3
Resolution
The suspended note resolves by step, often downward.
Suspensions in "Hook"
In the score for "Hook," Williams employs suspensions extensively. The string section frequently features 9-1 suspensions, creating a continuous ebb and flow of tension. Even as chords change, suspensions persist, such as using Bb7sus4 instead of a simple Bb7. This technique is not limited to strings; it's also present in clarinet and harp parts.
String Suspensions
9-1 suspensions in the string section of "Hook".
Clarinet and Harp
Suspensions in clarinet and harp parts from "Hook".
Variations on Suspensions
Williams employs various types of suspensions and suspension-like figures. These include traditional 4-3 and 9-1 suspensions, as well as 7-1 suspensions. He also uses a technique where he alternates between a chord extension (like the 9th) and the chord tone, creating a similar effect to a suspension. This pulsing between non-chord tones and chord tones adds richness and sophistication to the texture.
4-3 Suspension
Common suspension resolving from the 4th to 3rd scale degree.
9-1 Suspension
Suspension resolving from the 9th to root of the chord.
7-1 Suspension
Less common suspension resolving from the 7th to root.
Pulsing Extension
Alternating between chord extension and chord tone.
Suspensions Across Williams' Repertoire
The use of suspensions is not limited to "Hook." It's a technique Williams employs across his vast repertoire of film scores. Examples can be found in "Harry Potter," "Raiders of the Lost Ark," "Star Wars: The Force Awakens," and "Jurassic Park." This consistent use of suspensions spans decades of Williams' work, contributing to his distinctive sound.
Harry Potter
Oboe part in "Harry's Wondrous World" features suspensions.
Raiders of the Lost Ark
Woodwinds in "Marion's Theme" employ suspensions.
Star Wars: The Force Awakens
Trombones in "Rey's Theme" feature suspension-like figures.
The Effect of Suspensions
While suspensions are a basic technique, Williams' frequent use of them creates a unique effect. They add a constant underlying energy to the music, creating a push and pull of tension even in diatonic and major harmonies. This prevents the music from feeling fully settled, keeping listeners engaged. The suspensions often appear in background parts, subtly enhancing the overall texture and emotional impact of the score.
1
Constant Energy
Suspensions create a continuous ebb and flow of tension in the music.
2
Subtle Enhancement
Often used in background parts, suspensions add depth without overpowering melodies.
3
Emotional Impact
The push and pull of suspensions contribute to the overall emotional resonance of the score.
Applying Williams' Technique
To demonstrate the effect of Williams' suspension technique, an experiment was conducted using the Rito Village theme from "Breath of the Wild." Three versions were created: a plain version without suspensions, one with added movement in the strings (particularly violin II and viola), and one with pulsing woodwind triplets similar to those in Harry Potter. The versions with suspensions and suspension-like figures added subtle richness and energy to the texture.
Plain Version
The original Rito Village theme without added suspensions.
String Suspensions
Added movement in the strings, particularly violin II and viola, creating subtle tension and release.
Pulsing Woodwinds
Triplet figures in woodwinds alternating between chord extensions and chord tones, similar to Harry Potter scores.
When Suspensions Are Less Common
While suspensions are a hallmark of Williams' style, they are not used universally across all his works. The technique is less common in atonal or octatonic cues, such as those for chase scenes or space battles. Suspensions appear to be more prevalent in tonal, relatively diatonic themes, particularly those featuring lyrical melodies with accompaniment. This selective use highlights Williams' ability to adapt his compositional techniques to suit the mood and context of different scenes.
The Subtlety of Suspensions
The use of suspensions in Williams' work is not about drastically changing the music, but rather about adding subtle sophistication. These small dissonances and resolutions keep the texture rich and interesting. While not earth-shattering on their own, they contribute to the overall quality and depth of Williams' compositions. The technique adds a layer of complexity that may not be immediately noticeable but enhances the listening experience.
1
Subtle Addition
Suspensions add a layer of complexity without overpowering the main melody.
2
Rich Texture
The technique creates a richer harmonic texture in the background parts.
3
Enhanced Listening
While not always obvious, suspensions contribute to a more engaging listening experience.
Conclusion: The Power of Consistent Technique
John Williams' consistent use of suspensions across his body of work demonstrates the power of mastering and frequently employing a simple technique. While suspensions are a basic musical concept, Williams' liberal and thoughtful application of them contributes significantly to his distinctive sound. This approach serves as a valuable lesson for composers: sometimes, it's not about inventing new techniques, but about finding creative and consistent ways to use existing ones.
Mastery of Basics
Williams shows how mastering a simple technique can lead to a distinctive style.
Consistency is Key
The frequent use of suspensions across various works creates a recognizable sound.
Creative Application
Williams applies suspensions in innovative ways, enhancing their impact.
Lesson for Composers
Sometimes, the most effective techniques are the ones used consistently and creatively.