Creating Ambiguity Through Metrical, Formal, and Harmonic Disruptions

Accompanying music often needs to be cut short or reconfigured depending on the length of elements of gameplay; how does it do so without being noticeable so as not to create a jarring disruption of the listener’s perception? In fact, the music is already disrupted in an intentional manner in order to pre-empt any sudden perceptual fissures due to cut-offs or odd starting locations. This chapter discusses ways in which this effect is achieved, including metrical and hypermetrical idiosyncrasies, formal ambiguity, and harmonic disorientation. Shows featured in this chapter include Card Sharks, I’ve Got a Secret, Jeopardy!, Match Game, Password Plus, Press Your Luck, The Price Is Right, and Wheel of Fortune.