Structure of the Cue
Example Structure Flow:
Intro (4 bars)
Hook 1
Verse 1a (Breather, minimal elements)
Verse 1b (Reintroduce elements, build energy)
Pre-Hook (Breather, anticipation)
Hook 1 (or Hook 2 with added elements)
Stinger (Ramp-up leading to resolution)
Video Walkthrough:
· Gilde's Cue/Structure Broken Down Step by Step (Video): Structure Walkthrough
(The key section for understanding this structure is between 50 seconds and 1:32)
To ensure your cues are up to standard and more likely to be accepted, it’s crucial to follow the proper structure and arrangement that editors look for in visual media cues. Below is a breakdown of the required structure, including the key components that make a cue visually appealing and editable, referred to as “Peaks and Valleys” and “Edit Points”
Required Structure for Visual Cues:
Intro -- (4 bars, you can do a bit more IF concise and not repetitive):
The intro should be short, typically 4 bars, to avoid a repetitive or looped feel. It sets the tone for the cue but doesn’t linger unnecessarily.
note: Keep it fresh and don’t overstay its welcome.
Hook 1:
This is the first full section of the cue, and it should introduce the main theme or hook.
It can have a strong melodic element or rhythm that can anchor the cue and make it easy to identify.
Verse 1a (works as a Breather):
A contrasting section that should feel empty or lighter. This is where the cue “breathes” and offers space.
note: Create some contrast to the previous Hook, leaving room for the cue to build back up.
Verse 1b (Bring an element back in):
After the breather (Verse 1a), this section should reintroduce some elements from the hook or verse, adding more energy.
note: This is not just a repeat but should evolve the cue with added instrumentation or dynamics
---- Use some sort of “start Stop” here to cause a quick break into the next section
Pre-Hook (Another Breather):
A brief section that should feel empty again to build tension leading into the final hook. This acts as a moment of anticipation.
note: Use it as a transition or moment of buildup.
*** Use some sort of “start Stop” here to cause a quick break into the next section **
Hook 1 (and/or Hook 2 with added elements):
Return to the main theme but add new elements to keep it fresh. It’s important to not just repeat the first hook but to evolve it slightly.
note: Editors look for added elements or changes, not just repetition.
Stinger (Build-up into the Stinger):
The final section where the cue ramps up, leading into the stinger. This provides a solid end and wraps up the cue with a clear resolution.
note: Ensure there’s a smooth build-up into the stinger for a strong and conclusive ending.
Important Notes on Transitions and Techniques:
Start Stops (Quick pauses during transitions):
Include quick pauses or breaks when transitioning between sections (e.g., from Hook 1 into Verse 1a, or from Verse 1b into the Pre-Hook).
These transitions help create excitement and make the cue more dynamic, adding life to the piece.
note: Experiment with placement of these "Start Stops" to add energy and variety.
Ramp-Up to Stinger:
The cue should build up gradually, especially leading into the final stinger. The ramp up to the stinger creates anticipation, making the ending more impactful.
note: Make it a habit to always include a build-up, especially before the stinger. This is crucial for increasing the cue’s potential for use in visual media, as it sets up a more dynamic finish.
Ensure that your cue builds toward the final stinger to provide a conclusive ending. This is essential for a strong resolution that signifies the end of the cue.
note: The ramp-up should feel organic and gradual, leading into a powerful conclusion.
Examples of Ramp Ups into a Resolve/Stinger
Please only pay attention to the "ramp ups"... The Quality HERE is also top notch and they (Extreme Music – Hans Zimmer's company) are one of the Top in the Reality TV game as far as providing blanket licenses to a lot of major TV production companies... SO do listen to the Quality
Start the Cue around 1:44 - Listen how it Develops into a "Ramp Up" into a Stinger – (this "ramp up" start at 1:53)
Start the Cue around 2:03 - Listen how it Develops into a "Ramp Up" into a Stinger – (this "ramp up" start at 2:09)
Start the Cue around 1:49 - Listen how it Develops into a "Ramp Up" into a Stinger – (this "ramp up" start at 1:59)