Acoustic instrument simulation in film music contexts

The purpose of this study is to investigate virtual acoustic instrument simulation in a film music context and to identify critical factors that impact the believability of music composed for the purposes of film scoring. The research aims to uncover what factors may influence the sudience's recognition of real or virtual instruments, in order to call attention to methods that may be required for improving the believability of virtual instruments in digital film scoring in the future. The study implemented a mixed method approach consisting of practice-led research, aimed at gathering data on the use of composition production resources in the creation phase, and qualitative research methods, aimed at gathering data from listeners and viewers. Based on collected data and the broad range of possible variables tested, the study showed a number of elements that affected the perception of believability. As the music making process continues to shift and change, morphing into a continuous stream of activities that are enhanced by computer technology, this research will contribute to the diverse community of educators, researchers and practitioners who are working closely with new technologies in the fields of music and music technology education, music composition and the film industry.