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Benjamin Wallfisch: Harmony Explained 101

alexanderproudlock

Updated: Aug 9, 2023

Benjamin Wallfisch is a renowned composer known for his exceptional ability to create captivating and emotionally charged music in film and the classical scene. Composer for the movie Flash, IT and IT Chapter 2, Annabelle: Creation, Blade Runner 2049 and Shazam!

His rich family heritage in music has definitely impacted this incredible composers style which combines classical elements with modern techniques, resulting in compositions that leave a lasting impact on listeners. In this post, we will explore and analyze a chord sequence in the style of Benjamin Wallfisch, delving into the characteristics that define his music and the emotions it evokes. It’s important to note, I will discuss his harmonic choices in this post, but he is also a very skilled orchestrator.


The chord sequence we will examine is inspired by Wallfisch's ability to create tension and release through his harmonic choices. By analyzing his compositions, we can gain insight into the techniques he employs to convey a wide range of emotions, from suspense and fear to hope and triumph.


Tip #1 - Tension-building chords:


One of the defining features of Wallfisch's style is his skill in building tension through his chord progressions, evident in his latest score 'Flash'. He often utilizes dissonant chords, such as diminished or augmented chords, to create an unsettling atmosphere. For instance, let's consider a chord sequence from the cue We Will Fix This from the movie 'Flash'. The introduction of the Abdim chord, with its dissonant and unresolved nature, adds a sense of unease and anticipation.


Tip #2 - Unexpected modulations:


Wallfisch frequently employs unexpected modulations to surprise and engage the listener. By shifting to a different key, he introduces a new tonal center that can evoke various emotions. For example, let's examine a chord sequence below from the theme for 'A Cure For Wellness'. We are in the key of E minor

The final chord ending on an E a sense of brightness and stability to the turning chord progressions heard previously in the music, contrasting with the melancholic nature of the previous chords.


Tip #3 - Dramatic harmonic progressions:


Wallfisch's compositions often feature dramatic harmonic progressions that heighten the emotional impact of the music. He skillfully combines chords with suspensions, inversions, and added notes to create a rich and complex sound. Consider a chord sequence in the key of E major: E - C#m7 - F#m7 - B7sus4. The use of the suspended fourth in the final chord adds a sense of tension and anticipation, leading to a resolution that is both satisfying and emotionally charged.


Another example is from his score for the 2017 film ‘IT’. Ben employs a series of parallel minors, but major 7ths in the melody (shown above) at 6:43 in the video below.



In conclusion, the chord sequence in the style of Benjamin Wallfisch showcases his ability to create tension, surprise, and emotional depth through his harmonic choices. By utilizing dissonant chords, unexpected modulations, and dramatic progressions, Wallfisch's music evokes a wide range of emotions, leaving a lasting impact on listeners. Through the analysis of his compositions, we can gain valuable insights into the techniques that define his unique style and appreciate the power of music to convey complex emotions.


If you've enjoyed this brief view of let me know and I'll continue to make these 😃

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