In barbershop harmony the four voice parts have different names and functions than they do in other choral and vocal styles. The TENOR sings the highest note in a chord, the BASS sings the lowest, the LEAD sings the melody, and the BARITONE sings the all important missing note to complete the chord. To select a voice part, use the following descriptions and ranges. 

Another way to look at these voice parts is by thinking of a car. The BASS is the wheel base and drive shaft. She is the foundation of the musical vehicle. The LEAD is the steering wheel and driver's seat. She sings the message and is the GPS of the group. The BARITONE is the engine and interior space. She blends the other voices together and provides the power. The TENOR is the glitz and sun roof. She provides sparkle to the sound.

The Lead carries the melody in her mid-range.  It is most closely related to strong altos and 2nd sopranos.  The lead must sing with authority and clarity consistently throughout her range.  Note range:  middle C to D or E above middle C.

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The Bass is the lowest harmony part providing the foundation for the chord. It is most closely related to low alto. The bass must be able to sing with authority.  Note range:  F below middle C to G above middle C.

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The Tenor is the highest harmony part in the chord.  It is most closely related to 1st soprano, however, a tenor must be able to lighten the voice quality producing a clear, light tone primarily in head voice.  Note range: F above middle C to G above the staff.

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The Baritone sings the all important missing note to complete the chord.  A mid-range harmony part, the baritone adapts her voice quality to sing above and below the lead. It is most closely related to high alto.  Note range:  B below middle C to C an octave above.

Click here to get to the sheet music and the Baritone learning trax.