From Piano to Screen: Harnessing GarageBand to Reimagine and Arrange 'Clair de Lune' for Film Scores
Document Type
Paper presentation
School Name
De La Salle University Integrated School
School Code
ARCH00072
Abstract / Executive Summary
This study presents a learning plan for Grade 10 students that integrates impressionistic music, digital technology, and film composition. The project explores how students can reinterpret Claude Debussy’s Clair de Lune using GarageBand to create background scores for selected movie scenes. The objective is to examine how modern technology can be used to reimagine impressionistic music in cinematic contexts, encouraging students to engage creatively with both music and film. Implemented over one school term, the methodology involves collaborative group work beginning with piano- based learning of Clair de Lune, followed by performance on iPads and advanced music arrangement using GarageBand. Students manipulate tempo, instrumentation, and sound layering to align the music with specific cinematic moods and narratives. Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education, the project emphasizes creativity, innovation, and technical proficiency in digital music production. Expected outcomes include students gaining a deeper understanding of impressionistic music, developing stronger skills in music arrangement and digital production, and cultivating an appreciation for the role of music in film. This learning plan highlights the potential of integrating classical or impressionistic music education with modern technology to enhance the artistic expression and storytelling abilities of students.
Keywords:
impressionistic music; GarageBand; film composition; Clair de Lune; digital music
From Piano to Screen: Harnessing GarageBand to Reimagine and Arrange 'Clair de Lune' for Film Scores
This study presents a learning plan for Grade 10 students that integrates impressionistic music, digital technology, and film composition. The project explores how students can reinterpret Claude Debussy’s Clair de Lune using GarageBand to create background scores for selected movie scenes. The objective is to examine how modern technology can be used to reimagine impressionistic music in cinematic contexts, encouraging students to engage creatively with both music and film. Implemented over one school term, the methodology involves collaborative group work beginning with piano- based learning of Clair de Lune, followed by performance on iPads and advanced music arrangement using GarageBand. Students manipulate tempo, instrumentation, and sound layering to align the music with specific cinematic moods and narratives. Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education, the project emphasizes creativity, innovation, and technical proficiency in digital music production. Expected outcomes include students gaining a deeper understanding of impressionistic music, developing stronger skills in music arrangement and digital production, and cultivating an appreciation for the role of music in film. This learning plan highlights the potential of integrating classical or impressionistic music education with modern technology to enhance the artistic expression and storytelling abilities of students.
