Sound elements

EDUCATE  

informative soundtracks aim to expand the listener’s understanding of topics they might not know much about. A perfect example is BBC Radio 4’s In Our Time episode titled “Isaac Newton” (originally broadcast on 12 January 2006). Around 12:32–12:50, Melvyn Bragg quotes Newton’s famous line, “If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants,” then explains how this encapsulates Newton’s scientific legacy. Accompanied by expert commentary, this moment turns a single quote into a lesson in scientific inquiry and intellectual history making complex ideas clearer and richer for listeners. 
Link : https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006qykl 

ENTERTAIN  

Entertaining sounds keep audiences engaged by using humour and personality. A good example is this clip from BBC Radio 2’s "Harry Styles Interview" on The Zoe Ball Breakfast Show (aired on February 14, 2020). Around 00:05:12–00:05:25, Harry jokes, “I can’t whistle on key it sounds like a duck with a cough!” The light laughter and playful interaction with the presenter create a fun, relaxed atmosphere that makes listeners smile and want to tune in again. 
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GKtrzvSECq4  

INFORM 

This type of sound provides listeners with reliable, authoritative information about significant issues. A vivid example comes from the BBC News YouTube video titled “What high inflation means in the UK”, published 1 month ago. Around 00:00–00:15, the presenter states: 

“UK inflation has hit its highest level in 30 years at around 5.4% annually, largely due to rising energy and fuel prices.” 

This clear, data-driven explanation helps viewers understand the causes and impacts of inflation with confidence and clarity. The use of a concise presentation accompanied by on-screen graphics makes the economic context straightforward and easy to comprehend. 

Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MMG7cg5Zjm8 

SELL PRODUCTS 

This type of sound uses persuasive audio and music to motivate listeners to purchase or subscribe. A clear example comes from the Audible UK advertisement for BBC Audiobooks, featured in the Audio GO promo video. Around 00:10–00:20, the narrator says: 

“Enjoy unlimited listening to thousands of BBC audiobooks for just £7.99 a month.” 

This is overlaid with upbeat instrumental music, creating a positive and attractive vibe that positions the subscription as both convenient and high value. 
Link: AudioGO “BBC Audiobooks” promo – YouTube 

WILD TRACKS 

These are on-location ambient sounds recorded separately and later synchronised with visuals or narrative. A perfect example is this video of dark ambient Geiger counter clicks, evoking the haunting atmosphere of an underground vault or post-nuclear environment. 
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l1XQoLvlgpI 
Timestamp: 00:00–00:30 you can hear the repetitive, echoing clicks that create tension and a sense of danger, immersing the listener in the setting. 

This kind of authentic, location-style audio helps transport audiences into the world of the media, whether it's a radio drama, game, or film. It makes environments feel tangible and lived-in, enhancing realism and engagement. 

ATMOSPHERIC SOUNDS  

Ambient audio enriches mood and context by layering natural environmental sounds. A standout example is the BBC podcast Forest 404 specifically its companion “Soundscape” episodes, which immerse listeners in binaural recordings of nature. In Soundscape 1 (Episode 1), you hear distant rain and wind through canopy beginning at about 00:10–00:30, crafting a deeply immersive woodland atmosphere. This audio design enhances narrative immersion and captures listener attention through natural ambience. 
Link: BBC – Forest 404 Soundscape Episode 1 

SOUND EFFECT 

These are crafted sounds that underscore visual action. A perfect example is the iconic TARDIS “vworp-vworp” sound used in Doctor Who. In the original sound effect video “Doctor Who: TARDIS take-off the ORIGINAL sound effect” the well-known dematerialization whoosh plays from 00:00 to 00:10, complete with the distinctive pitch-up effect followed by a resonant “boom.” This sound has become synonymous with the Doctor’s travels and immediately signals excitement, wonder, and narrative transition. 
Link: Doctor Who: “TARDIS take-off — the ORIGINAL sound effect”