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How loud are strings harmonics?

Discussion in 'Template Balancing' started by Marko Dvojkovic, Mar 22, 2021.

  1. #1 Marko Dvojkovic, Mar 22, 2021
    If I remember correctly Mike mentions in the class that strings sordinos are even quieter than pizzes (wow!) but how loud are harmonics approximately compared to other strings articulations?

    Thanks!
     
  2. #2 Doug Gibson, Mar 23, 2021
    Not all harmonics produce the same amount of volume.

    The harmonics at the octave, 5th, and 4th are the loudest. Yes, those are usually mp or softer.

    These types of questions are not only impossible to answer but can confuse as they are too general.

    For example, you did not mention which instrument.
    The Cello and ContraBass will produce a louder harmonic than the violins.

    Probably the grand piano produces the loudest harmonics, but they are a pain to get to.

    The same with your first statement

    That is simply NOT true as a rule, and it must have applied to a specific context/situation.
    Strings can get very loud with mutes. There are many varieties of mutes, and are used for color NOT volume.

    FYI the opening credits of Pyscho have mutes across all strings.

     
    Dillon DeRosa and Rohann van Rensburg like this.
  3. #3 Rohann van Rensburg, Mar 23, 2021
    Thanks Doug, I have no idea. Always wondered why this piece had the timbre it did. The whole string section/piece has mutes?
     
  4. #4 Marko Dvojkovic, Mar 23, 2021
    Thank you very much Doug and sorry I know my question is kind of lazy, I just wanted to balance that articulation in my template xD. I am sometimes not sure how to learn best about playing techniques of some instruments and how to use them in our music. Sometimes I find nice video lessons on youtube made for actual musicians but showcasing the matter in a way that is also very useful to us. Other than that and analyzing scores I am not sure how one would learn about maybe a bit more unusual playing techniques.
     
  5. #5 Dillon DeRosa, Mar 23, 2021
    Herrmann was famous for using close/spot mics and riding different levels. Mixing and doing stuff he knew he couldn't achieve on the concert stage. Just wanted to point that out that what were hearing may/may not be an exact picture-perfect example. Also, depends on which recording we're listening to as well.

    Please forgive me, Doug, I'm not trying to discredit your example because I do agree. Just trying to add a warning and enlighten those who don't about Herrman's recording/orchestration techniques for his film scores. Hope that makes sense? I'll go back into hiding now...

    Cheers,
    Dillon
     
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