What is a Harmony?

Harmony refers to the combination of different musical notes played or sung at the same time to support and enrich a melody. When two or more pitches sound together, they create a harmonic relationship that adds depth and fullness to the music. Harmony often appears in the form of chords that accompany the main melodic line.

In many types of music, harmony works alongside the melody to create a richer sound. For example, a singer may perform the melody while instruments such as a piano or guitar play chords underneath it. Multiple singers can also create harmony by singing different notes that blend together to support the main vocal line.

Harmony plays a key role in shaping the emotional character of a piece of music. Different combinations of notes can create feelings of tension, resolution, brightness, or sadness. By arranging chords and harmonies in particular ways, composers and songwriters give music its structure, color, and expressive quality.