Barbershop is a style of a capella harmony characterized by a “cone-shaped” sound, specific chord structures (arrangement), delivery and interpretation. These integral factors contribute to the “lock and ring” sound in which a perfectly sung chord creates unsung harmonic overtones. There are no soloists in barbershop harmony, so blending is the name of the game!

Barbershop harmony is vocal harmony produced by four parts: tenor, lead, baritone, and bass. It is different from any other kind of choral or group singing.
TENOR: is a harmony part sung consistently above the lead. It should not be confused with soprano of traditional singing. The tenor should have a light, sweet, pure tone that will compliment but not overpower the lead voice.

LEAD: is the melody and is sung in the range below A below middle C and C above middle C.

BARITONE: covers approximately the same range as the lead. The baritone harmony notes are sung mostly below and sometimes above the lead. Baritones must consistently adjust their balance to accommodate their position in the chord.

BASS: singers should have a rich mellow voice and be able to sing the E flat below middle C easily. Basses should not be confused with the alto of conventional groups. Many altos can sing the bass part, but others are much better suited to lead or baritone, depending on range and vocal quality.

 

© 2010 Brazos Crossing Chorus