Haley Marie
THE P WORD
The P Word is not complete yet, but here is the process work that I've done so far. My scoring process includes a lot of preparation work, which usually consists of composing "sketches:" short pieces that are based on different character themes or scenes throughout the film. The sketches are usually created after I've read the script, or after I've watched an animatic if it's ready early enough. Composing a sketch allows me to dive into whatever motif I'm working on at the time by changing the tempo, rhythm, or key of it, just to see how it behaves and what kinds of feelings it could give off. The P Word is a coming-of-age film about a young girl and her single father, so it has been fun to create music that reflects both of their situations.
BLAKE'S THEME
I began by composing a sketch for the main character, Blake, a ten-year-old girl who experiences the confusion and surprises of puberty. I aimed to make her theme positive and curious, while throwing in a section of uncertainty and change, but following that with a stronger and more confident melody. The ending is my favorite part because it symbolizes growth and progress despite all the challenges that accompany growing up. I chose the key of C because it is very innocent sounding, while also leaving room for interesting combinations of notes within the composition, especially towards the end.
MARK'S THEME
Mark is Blake's father, who has had to raise Blake on his own. His motif is more complex and a bit darker than Blake's, seeing as he has to deal with more adult challenges while concealing his underlying sadness and fear of making mistakes as a single father. In contrast to Blake's ascending motif, I gave Mark a motif that spirals downward, then works its way back up. This is meant to reflect his struggle with Blake's mother and raising Blake on his own, while also showing his tenacity while assisting Blake in her struggles. I also composed Mark's theme in the key of C, but I focused more on the chords of A minor, G, and F to add some interest in contrast with Blake's theme.
MARK'S THEME - ORCHESTRAL
I liked Mark's motif so much that I wanted to see what happened if it took a trip through some sort of winter wonderland. These sketches were written and produced in winter of 2021, so I was inspired to turn it into something that felt cozy and matched the season. Another aspect I really like about creating sketches is how loose they can be. Their main purpose is to explore themes and develop the score before any piece of the final version is written, so it is evident in this sketch that I was just messing around with the melody towards the end.