Harmonize in Two-Part Harmony

MusicIntermediateHome

90 minutes

5 steps

·Intermediate

After 90 min: You can sing a harmony line that complements a melody while someone sings the lead.

What you need

Backing track or another personRecording device

The 90-Minute Plan

Understand harmony intervals0–15 min

Harmony usually uses thirds or fifths above the melody. Play a note on an instrument, then sing a note a third (4 semitones) above it. Sing it 20 times to internalize the sound. Do this for melody notes in your song.

Map out harmony notes for your song15–38 min

Write out the melody notes. For each, identify the harmony note (usually a third above). Test each on an instrument if possible. Create a simple sheet or list. This takes thinking but removes live improvisation.

Sing harmony against a backing track38–62 min

Play the backing track softly. Sing the harmony line slowly while tracking the melody in your head. Record this attempt. Listen back. You're building the ear-voice connection.

Sing both parts with a partner (or split recording)62–78 min

If with a partner: one sings melody, one sings harmony. Hold the harmony note steady even if theirs wavers. If alone: record melody, play back, sing harmony over it.

Blend and blend again78–90 min

Focus on matching your partner's volume and timbre. The goal is that both parts sound like they belong together. Do 3 complete passes. By the third, it should feel organic.

Pro Tip

Harmony is hardest when you can hear the melody—many singers naturally pull toward the melody instead of the harmony. Think 'support' not 'separate'.