Motto theme

A motto theme, defined by Richards,¹ is a kind of film theme that has 2 key characteristics:

1. Its structure consists of:
   1. a single motive;
   2. a few motives combined into a short idea;
   3. 2 or more ideas combined into a larger unit
2. It does not develop in any significant way. That is, there is no implication of a "second half" at any point.

Often, an ostinato is used.²

Examples:

• Rebel Fanfare – Star Wars