In the classic film "The Wizard of Oz," the evil witch known as the Wicked Witch of the West has a memorable tune that she performs throughout the story. This tune is often associated with her and is used to portray her wickedness and malevolence. The tune, titled "Miss Gulch's / Witch's Theme," was composed by Herbert Stothart and is prominently heard during the scenes involving the Wicked Witch. It is a haunting melody that adds to the eerie and sinister atmosphere whenever she appears on screen. The theme starts with a slow, ominous introduction, featuring low, orchestral notes that create a sense of foreboding. As the melody develops, it becomes more intense and unsettling, utilizing dissonant chords and chromaticism.
As the melody develops, it becomes more intense and unsettling, utilizing dissonant chords and chromaticism. This musical technique adds a sinister edge to the tune, effectively capturing the essence of the Wicked Witch's character. Throughout the film, the tune is utilized to enhance the dramatic impact of the Wicked Witch's presence.
All the songs in 'Wicked' on Broadway
Discover fun facts about the hit musical's most popular tunes.
Gillian Russo April 5, 2023, 19:56Countless audiences have called Wicked, and all its songs, wonderful for 20 years and counting. Telling the backstory of Elphaba — the Wicked Witch of the West — and the good witch Glinda before the events of The Wizard of Oz, Wicked has defied gravity on Broadway and become one of its most popular long-running shows.
Wicked is one of those musicals with multiple songs even non-theatre fans likely know, "Defying Gravity" and "Popular" among them. Hearing these songs live is some younger fans' first Broadway memory, and Stephen Schwartz's tunes also captured older, longtime Broadway fans with their musical magic and whimsy.
Learn more about all the songs in Wicked, including their significance to the plot and fun facts about them. Light spoilers for Wicked follow.
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It is played whenever she is plotting her schemes, tormenting the main characters, or flying on her broomstick. The repetitive and memorable nature of the theme helps to establish the Wicked Witch as a formidable and fearsome antagonist. Although the tune is associated with the Wicked Witch, it also represents the broader concept of evil in the story. It serves as a musical motif that symbolizes the darkness and danger that the main characters must confront on their journey through Oz. Overall, the tune performed by the evil witch in "The Wizard of Oz" is a memorable and iconic piece of music. Its haunting melody and sinister undertones effectively contribute to the portrayal of the Wicked Witch as a formidable antagonist. By using music to amplify the character's malevolence, the film creates a more immersive and engaging experience for the audience..
Reviews for "The Dark Symphony: Analyzing the Musical Elements of the Evil Witch's Tune in the Wizard of Oz"
1. Samantha - 2/5 stars
I was really disappointed with the tune performed by the evil witch from the Wizard of Oz. It lacked depth and complexity, and felt more like a repetitive jingle rather than a memorable song. The melody didn't captivate me at all, and I found it to be rather dull and forgettable. It didn't showcase the vocal abilities of the actress playing the witch, and I was left wanting more. Overall, I was underwhelmed by this tune and it didn't contribute much to the overall experience of the show.
2. John - 1/5 stars
The tune performed by the evil witch from the Wizard of Oz was absolutely dreadful. It was grating to the ears and lacked any musicality or harmony. The lyrics were repetitive and uninteresting, and I couldn't wait for it to be over. It didn't showcase any talent and felt like a missed opportunity in terms of creating a memorable and haunting melody for such an iconic character. I would not recommend this tune to anyone, as it was one of the weakest aspects of the entire performance.
3. Rachel - 2/5 stars
I was really hoping for something powerful and enchanting from the tune performed by the evil witch in the Wizard of Oz, but it fell flat for me. The melody was lackluster and didn't capture the essence of the witch's character. It didn't leave a lasting impression and I found myself forgetting it shortly after the show ended. I think they could have done so much more with this song and made it more memorable, but unfortunately, it didn't live up to my expectations. It was a missed opportunity to create a stand-out musical number in the production.