Someone grab the tissues. What is it about a sad song that makes it sound sad?

How to Make a Sad Song Sound Field

Premiered February 14, 2019
How to Make a Sad Song

It only takes a few notes of Sarah MacLachlan’s “Angel” over images of homeless dogs and cats to trigger our tear ducts. Heartbreaking visuals aside, what makes the song itself so sad? What is it musically about a song that makes it sound sad? Hosts Nahre Sol and LA Buckner hear from experts and break down the components of sad-sounding music, creating their own somber composition.

About the Program

Sound Field

Arthur Buckner and Linda Diaz are accomplished musicians and music teachers exploring the music theory, production, history and culture behind our favorite songs and musical styles.

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