Aesthetic Dimensions of Soundtracks within Libyan Documentary Cinema

Abstract

This study aimed to explore, analyze, and interpret the background music used in Libyan documentaries broadcast on Libyan television channels. A descriptive study was conducted involving three Libyan documentaries. The study used media survey methodology and Framing Theory. We also used a content analysis tool to quantify and analyze the meanings, concepts, and relationships of background music used and factual information presented in these documentaries.  The most important finding was as follows: First, some documentaries used well-known or popular Arabic music as background music, while neglecting local music that reflects Libyan identity. Second, music libraries were often used without being related to the meanings and concepts of factual information presented. One of the most important factors for the success of documentaries is composing special music that is appropriate for the image, events, and place. Finally, the budgets for Libyan documentaries remain limited, forcing producers and directors to allocate most of the budget to documents, information, and recording to ensure credibility and reliability, while often neglecting background music.