What is Barbershop?

1. It has four parts - no more, no less.

Tenor: This is a harmony part, usually above the lead. The range is from F above middle C to G, an octave above. Although tenor is the "high" voice in barbershop harmony, it should not be confused with soprano. A clear, sweet tone which will complement and not overpower the lead is needed.

Lead: This part has the melody most of the time. The range is between A below middle C to C above middle C. The lead sings with authority, with a strong but pleasant quality.

Baritone: This part is basically the same range as the lead, with the harmony sometimes above and sometimes below the melody. This part is said to be the "glue" between the lead and bass parts.

Bass: Although this is the "low" part, it should not be confused with alto. The range is C below middle C, and as high as the F or G above middle C. A rich mellow quality is needed to produce the characteristic, strong bass sound inherent to barbershop harmony.

2. It has melodies that are easily remembered.

3. Barbershop harmonic structure is characterized by:

  • A strong bass line
  • Melody in an internal part
  • Complete chords without any non-chord tones
  • Mostly major triads, dominant 7th chords and dominant 9th chords with other chords used in passing as demanded by the implied harmony.
  • Traditional harmonic movement and resolutions

4. It has rhythmic interest as an important and vital part of an uptune

5. It has clear, recognizable form.

6. It has lyrics that are clear and understandable.

7. It is difficult to perform because:

  • It requires great vocal skill and is usually sung by amateur singers
  • All chords must be heard with clarity requiring singers to sing precise intervals.

8. Properly tuned barbershop chords are congruent with the physics of sound

9. Energy and physical involvement are required from the singer in a degree of intensity not usually found in other choral forms.

10. The artistic potential is unlimited since we are not bound by the printed page.

11. It is emotionally satisfying to both the listener and the performer.

12. You can't do it alone.