This short BBC-style nature documentary by The Cue Tube highlights the hidden wonders of the insect kingdom. I set out to compose a score that aims to evoke beauty and wonder as listeners are taken on a transformative journey.

About the Score:

In the airy opening sequence of the mystical vocals, I set the melodic motif that becomes the anchor for the piece. Using a combination of subtle counterpoint and playful percussive syncopation, I then introduce various feature solo instruments that embody insect-like characteristics such as the ocarina, bansuri, lutes, bassoon, cello, irish harp, oboe, etc. (Just like insects, instruments are small on their own but mighty together.) Broadening the piece with an ethereal chord progression, I expand the piece with celestial textures and orchestral swells to mirror the metamorphosis of the caterpillar. To parallel the journey of the film into the “darker moment”, I keep the rhythm of the melody but shift the key (and tone) of the motif. Using full orchestral swells, hidden braaams, adding some movement, and bringing back the featured instruments–I aim to move the big and final arc from somber... to hopeful, triumphant, and beautiful in the end. To complete the arc, I bookend it with the original melody and feature soloists, completing the “transformation”.