Please Help!

[Sarcasmo]

Hi folks,
Im trying to hunt down some information on a musical effect often used in the thriller and horror genres. Its a kind of random discorderd pizzicato strings effect used to signify madness. It suggests scurrying rats or something.. Does anyone know what im talking about??!? if anyone does or can think of an example or indeed know what its called, id be very grateful...

[Frederik Magle]

I think I have an idea about the effect you are talking about. I just browsed quickly through some of my soundtrack CDs and (possibly) found the effect you are looking for on the "Aliens" soundtrack (by James Horner) at the end of the "Atmosphere Station" track. Though in this case somewhat in the subdued the fast pizzicato effect is still quite distinct invoking a sense of "creepiness" (here it's not rats but aliens, but the idea is the same).

Hope this helps.

[Sarcasmo]

Thats excellent..I'll check it out immediately, thank you for the help sir!

[methodistgirl]

Ever listened to pink floyd's the wall? There is some wierd stuff in that
album and movie. Try it out! The move along with the soundtrack is
I can say is kinda skitso. If you want to use classical music for the same
effect, sometimes toccata & fugue is used for some unknown reason.
judy tooley