Close Harmony: A musical technique where notes are sung or played in a tight interval range, typically within an octave, creating a rich, blended sound.

Context and Significance

Close harmony is significant in music for its ability to create a unified, blended sound that can evoke emotional responses. It is commonly used in vocal ensembles, such as barbershop quartets and a cappella groups, where singers perform parts that are closely spaced in pitch. This technique is also prevalent in jazz and pop music, adding depth and texture to vocal and instrumental arrangements.

Historical Background

The tradition of close harmony can be traced back to the early 20th century with the rise of barbershop quartets. It gained popularity through the influence of African American gospel and jazz music. As radio and recording technology advanced, close harmony became a staple in popular music, influencing groups like The Andrews Sisters and The Beach Boys, who utilized it to great effect.

Examples

Classic examples of close harmony can be found in The Ink Spots’ recordings, where the close-knit vocal arrangements create a warm and cohesive sound. The Beach Boys’ “Good Vibrations” showcases intricate harmonies that demonstrate the technique’s complexity and beauty. Modern a cappella groups, like Pentatonix, continue to innovate with close harmony, blending tight vocal arrangements with contemporary music styles.

Related Terms

Barbershop Harmony: A style characterized by four-part close harmony.

Chord Voicing: The arrangement of notes in a chord, crucial in harmony.

Counterpoint: The relationship between voices that are harmonically interdependent yet independent in rhythm and contour.

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