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Dark Classical Tunes featured in Wednesday Season 2's Episodes

Jenna Ortega resurfaces with the cello once more, infusing her trademark mysterious ambiance into her playing.

Dark Classical Music Shines in Season 2 of Wednesday
Dark Classical Music Shines in Season 2 of Wednesday

In the second season of Netflix's "Wednesday," classical music takes centre stage, adding a layer of depth and eeriness to the horror-comedy series. The show's music supervisor, Nicole Weisberg, has carefully curated a selection of pieces that perfectly complement the gothic setting of Nevermore Academy.

The season features works by Mozart, Wagner, Verdi, and Prokofiev, amongst others. "Voi che sapete" from Mozart's The Marriage of Figaro adds an old-world, academic feel consistent with the elite, gothic school setting. The Dies Irae sequence from Verdi, traditionally evoking themes of death and judgment, fits the show's supernatural suspense. Compositions by Wagner and Prokofiev contribute to the dark, tension-filled orchestral score alongside Danny Elfman and Chris Bacon’s original music.

These classical pieces are not just background music; they play a crucial role in enhancing the show's atmosphere and emphasising narrative beats. For instance, the strings and choir textures heighten horror scenes, blending seamlessly with the supernatural and dark themes of the series. A cello score scene, highlighting Wednesday's introspective moments, is a prime example of this.

The use of classical music extends beyond the academic setting, too. In one episode, students go to war against a troop of 'normies,' with Richard Wagner's The Ride of the Valkyries playing in the background, signifying on-screen battles.

Interestingly, Jenna Ortega's cello performances in the show are not her actual performances. They are credited to Hungarian cellist Ölveti Mátyás. Ortega spent two months learning to play the cello before filming Season 1 of "Wednesday."

The second season also welcomes new characters, including Lady Gaga as a teacher named Rosaline Rotwood in Part 2, and Billie Piper as the new music teacher. Joanna Lumley and Billie Piper join the cast as Grandmama Hester and Isadora Capri, respectively.

With the first part of Season 2 of "Wednesday" now streaming on Netflix, fans are eagerly awaiting Part 2, set to release on 3 September 2025. The use of classical music in this series is undoubtedly one of its standout features, adding a touch of sophistication and a dose of chills to this gothic, horror-comedy masterpiece.

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