Meaning: The quote by Mike Figgis, a renowned director, highlights the often underestimated influence of sound on the psychological state of an audience. Figgis emphasizes the profound impact of music and harmony in creating a specific psychological atmosphere within a film or performance. This notion is particularly relevant in the realm of filmmaking, where the marriage of visuals and sound is essential in eliciting emotional responses and shaping the audience's experience.

Sound has an unparalleled ability to evoke emotions, trigger memories, and guide the audience's perception of a narrative. In the context of film, music and sound effects play a pivotal role in shaping the mood and atmosphere of a scene. Whether it's the suspenseful buildup of a thriller, the poignant melancholy of a drama, or the exhilarating energy of an action sequence, sound is instrumental in eliciting the intended psychological response from the audience.

Figgis' assertion that the power of sound is undervalued underscores the significance of sound design and musical composition in the filmmaking process. When carefully utilized, sound has the capacity to transport the audience into the world of the story, heightening their emotional engagement and immersion in the narrative. It has the potential to captivate, unsettle, or uplift, thereby influencing the audience's psychological state in a profound manner.

Furthermore, Figgis' emphasis on the impact of music and harmony speaks to the intricate relationship between sound and psychological resonance. Music, with its ability to convey a wide spectrum of emotions and moods, serves as a potent tool for directors and composers to sculpt the psychological landscape of a film. The interplay of melodies, rhythms, and tonalities can effectively shape the audience's emotional journey, creating an indelible impression that lingers long after the film has ended.

In the realm of live performances, such as theater or musical concerts, the power of sound to influence the psychological state of the audience is equally significant. The sonic elements contribute to the overall ambiance, guiding the audience's emotional responses and enriching their experience. From the subtle use of ambient sounds to the grandeur of a symphonic score, sound has the capacity to transport the audience into the heart of the performance, eliciting a range of psychological states from contemplation to exhilaration.

Understanding the nuances of music and harmony empowers creators to harness the full potential of sound in shaping psychological states. Composers, sound designers, and directors who possess a deep knowledge of musical principles can intricately weave sonic elements into the fabric of their work, leveraging the emotive power of sound to amplify the intended psychological impact on the audience.

In conclusion, Mike Figgis' quote serves as a poignant reminder of the profound influence of sound on the psychological state of an audience. Whether in the context of filmmaking or live performances, the strategic use of music, sound effects, and harmony can deeply resonate with the audience, eliciting a spectrum of emotions and psychological responses. By recognizing and leveraging the power of sound, creators have the opportunity to craft experiences that transcend the visual realm, leaving a lasting imprint on the audience's psyche.