The Name and Implications of the Suspenseful Music TUN TUTUTUN...
A Touch of Suspense in Classical Music
Many people are familiar with the ominous, suspenseful tunersquo;s introduction: ldquo;tun tututun... tutututu tuuuuun tututun tututu tun tun.rdquo; This melodic phrase, often used to denote suspense in various media, has a rich history in classical music. If yoursquo;ve ever wished you could hear someone enunciate it perfectly—perhaps even in a funny video—this article is for you.
Watch examples of this tune here.
Identifying the Music
The quote you provided has sparked a fascinating discussion about the origins of this suspenseful melody. While some initial answers pointed to Ludwig van Beethovenrsquo;s **5th Symphony**, others suggest that it might be from Gustav Holstrsquo;s **Mars, from The Planets** suite. Interestingly, it has even been compared to Maurice Ravelrsquo;s **Bolero**, which, however, is not as suspenseful or interesting for this context.
Another interesting suggestion is the New Hope Star Wars movie score by John Williams, though its passages are more modern and copyrighted.
Classical Techniques: String Tremolos
The phrase ldquo;tun tututun...rdquo; is reminiscent of a classic technique in classical music called string tremolos. This technique involves quickly alternating between two closely spaced notes, creating a pulsing effect that can evoke a sense of tension and suspense in the listener. Composers often use this technique to build suspense, enhance drama, and create a feeling of foreboding or urgency in the music.
H1: Beethovenrsquo;s 5th Symphony
Perhaps the most famous use of quarter notes is the first movement of Ludwig van Beethovenrsquo;s 5th Symphony. The ldquo;tun tun tun tubrdquo; motif (also known as the ldquo;da-da-da-dumrdquo;) is perhaps the most recognizable example of this technique in classical music. This motif is not only used to denote suspense but also as a driving force for the entire symphony.
H1: Mars from Planets by Gustav Holst
Another example that comes to mind is Mars, the Bringer of War from Gustav Holstrsquo;s symphonic suite The Planets. While the tune might sound familiar in terms of its pulsing effect, it serves to represent Marsrsquo; assertive and warlike character. The piece opens with a relentless, driving rhythm that builds to an impressive climax, capturing the essence of Marsrsquo; ferocity. Nevertheless, it can indeed sound suspenseful in context.
H1: John Williamsrsquo; theme from Star Wars: A New Hope
However, if yoursquo;re thinking of the specific lsquo;tun ; sound, you might be referring to the iconic theme from Star Wars: A New Hope. John Williams crafted a theme that, in its minimal yet powerful construction, effectively conveys a sense of suspense and excitement. The opening, which features a series of chromatic notes played by the horns, has become inseparable from the feeling of adventure and intrigue in the film.
H1: String Tremolos and Their Usage
String tremolos, while not exclusive to any particular piece, have been extensively used in classical music to denote suspense. Composers like Bach, Chopin, and Tchaikovsky have employed this technique to create tense and dramatic music. For instance, Tchaikovskyrsquo;s Dance of the Hours from The Livre d'Or uses tremolo passages to build a sense of anticipation and excitement.
Itrsquo;s not just in the film or classical music world that this technique is used; itrsquo;s also evident in video games, advertisements, and even in everyday life. Think of how an ominous soundtrack manipulates your emotions and builds anticipation for whatrsquo;s to come. Thatrsquo;s the power of the humble string tremolo.
So, the ldquo;tun tututun...rdquo; might indeed be a reference to the string tremolos technique, but it could also point to specific works by Beethoven, Holst, and Williams, each contributing to the rich tapestry of classical music that evokes suspense and drama.
Feel free to share your thoughts or perhaps even record a funny version of this melody. Send me a link! It could make for an entertaining video!