Activity

Begin by asking students what they know of the story of Alice in Wonderland. You might want to collect their knowledge and observations about the story, character, films etc. on the board.

In the course of this discussion, it is important to establish that the story of Alice involves her arrival in a fantasy world, populated by a host of extraordinary characters.

What kind of musical elements and devices do students associate with the word 'fantasy' and what kind of music might they expect to find in a film based on the Alice in Wonderland story? Encourage them to talk about textures, tempo, dynamics and tonalities.

Now, ask them to watch one of the two short extracts - Changing Size, or Royal Procession - and note down their initial observations and ideas about what a score would need to take into account. For example, how might the procession be represented in a composition (ie. a marching beat), or how might music be used to emphasise Alice's surprise as she changes size?

Some more ideas

• Encourage students to watch through the newly restored Alice in Wonderland on the BFI Youtube site, with a newly created soundtrack. What do they notice about the music? How would they describe it? Do they think it is effective and affecting?