How to Write a Guitar Harmony

Crafting guitar harmonies can transform a simple riff into a majestic wall of sound that captivates listeners. Whether you're aiming for a soaring melody or a haunting undertone, understanding the art of harmonizing can elevate your compositions to new heights. We'll explore how to create compelling guitar harmonies, with tips that cater to beginners and seasoned players alike, and provide practical examples to get you started.

Building Blocks of Harmony

Before you dive into writing harmonies, it's essential to grasp the basic elements that form the backbone of harmony. At its core, harmony involves two or more notes played simultaneously, creating a sound that's richer than a single note. Think of harmony as the seasoning in a dish—it enhances and complements the main melody.

When you're working with guitar harmonies, start by familiarizing yourself with intervals. Intervals are the distance between two notes, and understanding them is crucial for creating harmonies that resonate. Common intervals used in harmonies are:

• Thirds: Often used in rock and metal for a consonant, pleasing sound.
• Fifths: Create a powerful and open sound, frequently used in power chords.
• Sixths: Offer a smoother and more melodic harmony.

Experimenting with these intervals can help you find the right flavor for your harmony. For instance, playing a harmony in thirds can give your music a classic, uplifting feel, while fifths can add a sense of strength and power.

Choosing the Right Scales

Scales are your best friends when it comes to harmonizing. They provide a framework within which you can explore different harmonic possibilities. In metal and its subgenres like djent or progressive metal, you'll often encounter modes and exotic scales that add unique textures to your harmonies.

Some scales to consider include:

• Major and Minor Scales: These are the bread and butter of harmony. Major scales offer a bright sound, while minor scales provide a darker, more introspective tone.
• Harmonic Minor: Popular in metal for its dramatic and tension-filled sound.
• Phrygian Mode: A staple in metal, known for its dark and mysterious quality.

Once you've chosen a scale, try harmonizing a melody by playing the same melody a third or fifth above or below the original. This technique is called parallel harmony and is a straightforward way to start crafting harmonies.

Layering for Depth

Layering harmonies can add a lush, full-bodied sound to your guitar tracks. By stacking different harmonies, you create a tapestry of sound that can be both complex and beautiful. However, it's essential to be intentional with your layers to avoid a muddy mix.

Here are some tips for effective layering:

• Vary the Intervals: Mix up the intervals in each layer to create contrast and interest. For example, use thirds for the first layer and sixths for the second.
• Use Different Octaves: Spread your harmonies across octaves to add depth without overcrowding the frequency spectrum.
• Consider Instrumentation: Sometimes adding a different instrument, like a keyboard or synth, can complement the guitar harmonies and enhance the overall sound.

Layering requires a bit of experimentation to get just right. Don’t hesitate to tweak and adjust until you find the perfect balance.

Writing Harmonies with Counterpoint

Counterpoint is a more advanced technique that involves writing independent melodies that complement each other. This approach can result in rich, intricate harmonies that add a layer of sophistication to your music.

In counterpoint:

• Each Melody Stands Alone: Ensure that each line can be a melody on its own, while still sounding harmonious when played together.
• Focus on Movement: Create interest by having your melodies move in different directions (one ascending while the other descends).
• Pay Attention to Rhythm: Vary the rhythm in each line to add complexity and intrigue.

Writing counterpoint requires practice and patience, but it can be incredibly rewarding. If you're new to this technique, start with simple two-part counterpoint and gradually work up to more complex arrangements.

Exploring Harmony in Metal

Metal music offers a vast playground for guitar harmonies. The genre's emphasis on intensity and emotion makes it a perfect canvas for experimenting with different harmonic ideas.

Here are some metal-specific harmony techniques:

• Harmonized Leads: A staple in bands like Iron Maiden and Avenged Sevenfold, harmonized leads can create epic and memorable guitar solos.
• Dissonant Intervals: Experiment with tritones and minor seconds for a tense and unsettling effect, often used in black and death metal.
• Dual Guitar Harmonies: Many metal bands feature two guitarists harmonizing riffs and solos, allowing for a dynamic interplay between the instruments.

Metal harmonies can be as simple or complex as you like. The key is to experiment and find what resonates with your style and musical goals.

Practical Exercises for Crafting Harmonies

Now that we've covered some theory, let’s put it into practice with a few exercises designed to improve your harmony-writing skills.

• Harmonize a Simple Melody: Take a melody you know well, like a nursery rhyme or a simple riff, and write a harmony in thirds or fifths.
• Play with Modes: Choose a mode like Dorian or Phrygian and write a short melody. Then, harmonize it using different intervals.
• Record Layered Harmonies: Use recording software to lay down multiple guitar tracks. Experiment with different harmonies and layers to see what sounds best.

These exercises are a great way to get a feel for harmony and start incorporating it into your songwriting process. Remember, practice is key!

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Writing harmonies can be challenging, especially when you're trying to avoid common mistakes that can detract from your music's impact.

Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcrowding: Too many layers or complex harmonies can overwhelm the listener. Keep it simple and ensure each part has its own space.
• Lack of Focus: Ensure that the harmony supports the main melody rather than overshadowing it. The melody should remain the focal point.
• Ignoring the Bass Line: The bass line is an integral part of the harmony. Make sure it complements the guitar harmonies rather than clashing with them.

Being aware of these pitfalls can help you create more effective and compelling harmonies. It’s all about balance and making sure each element of your music serves the song as a whole.

Resources for Learning and Inspiration

If you're looking to expand your harmony-writing skills, there are plenty of resources available to help you along the way. While books and online tutorials are valuable, nothing beats learning from the pros.

That's where Riffhard comes in. Our platform features lessons from some of the world's best metal guitarists, offering insights into their approach to harmonies and songwriting. With over 150 video lessons covering everything from rhythm guitar to complex harmonies, you'll have a wealth of knowledge at your fingertips. Plus, our custom metronome and interactive player make practicing more efficient and enjoyable.

Final Thoughts

Creating guitar harmonies is a journey that blends creativity with technical skill. By understanding intervals, scales, and layering techniques, you'll be well-equipped to write harmonies that enhance your music. And, with resources like Riffhard, you can learn from the best and refine your skills further. Dive into the world of harmonies and let your music soar.