A harmony is that part in the song that, most likely, stood out among all the other vocal techniques. The three parts sung are dancing around in your head, or maybe even giving you chills. I can personally say that as a singer, I love to harmonize to my favorite songs, sometimes even to hip hop music.
What exactly is going on when this magnificent technique called harmony is materializing?
Harmony is when constant notes are sung simultaneously and create a main melody. If you understand music theory then you will see harmonies written as multiple notes to make a single chord. Harmonies are also typically sung in thirds or sixths.
When you hear harmony in a song, there are two ways it can be done. One way is creating harmony with multiple singers like in a capella groups or bands such as Destiny’s Child.
Another way is to have a lead singer use back-up singers. These two harmony solutions are the most common in today’s popular music.
Harmonies are used for special parts of the song so think of sections like the bridge and chorus. The same lyrics may be sung in a harmony or it may be used as an echo. Both styles are intriguing. If you’re a songwriter you should consider adding this technique to your music.
The benefits of singing in harmony
Depth, texture, and emotion are factors you take in from the song. You can feel how the singer is feeling through each note. Deep notes in the harmony suggest seriousness and perhaps even pain. You may even hear the buzzing that tends to take place when various notes are in perfect harmony. It’s like a subtle vibration that wraps you in a cocoon of good feels.
Here are some examples of harmony:
Do you think you will need some assistance in singing harmonies? Give us a call and we will be happy to help. Singing harmonies may come naturally to some but whether you are a natural or not, you still need to practice!
If you play an instrument at home you have a great chance of figuring this out on your own. Knowledge of music theory will help immensely throughout your journey to harmonize.
Let us know if this blog post has helped you. We want to hear you harmonizing!
