Create Angelic Harmony

Learning and creating harmonies takes practice, but executing them so they blend seamlessly is another skill entirely. I’m Camille van Niekerk, singer and voice teacher with 30 Day Singer, and I’ve got 6 tips to help you become a better harmonizer.

Listen Louder Than You Sing

Harmonizing is all about being aware of your role within the group. You’re not the star here—it’s a team effort. Sing with confidence, but stay conscious of how your voice fits with the others. If you’re used to singing solos, this might feel challenging, but group singers might find it second nature.

Breathe Together

Unified breathing creates smooth entrances and cutoffs. In a choir, the conductor helps guide this, but in smaller groups, watch each other or assign a leader to signal breaths. This helps you stay in sync and enhances your overall sound.

Modulate Your Dynamic

Matching the group’s volume, or dynamic, is key. Sometimes, you’ll all sing at the same volume; other times, specific lines or notes need emphasis. Mark your music to note where the melody is, how your part interacts, and any volume changes needed.

Unify Your Vowels

Vowel shapes impact tone quality. If one singer’s vowel is bright and another’s is dark, it disrupts the blend. Take time to align your vowel shapes for a more cohesive sound.

Balance Vibrato

Vibrato can affect blend and tuning. If some singers use vibrato while others sing with straight tone, the group’s sound can feel disconnected. Practice controlling vibrato to ensure consistency and decide as a group how to use it.

Clarify Your Cutoffs

Clean cutoffs are essential for a polished sound. Agree on where phrases end so no one drops out too early or holds on too long.

Harmonizing is a rewarding skill, and these tips will help you improve. Happy singing!