1.3 Tessitura

Since 4-part harmony is a “strict” compositional style, the writing of all exercises should be arranged using the classical four choir voices. from highest to lowest, here are the names of the voices:

Soprano
Alto
Tenor
Bass

Tessitura (Vocal Ranges)

Here’s a reference guide for the minimum and maximum vocal range for each voice:

Vocal range of the 4 choir voices

Staves & Stems

Four-part harmony exercises should be written on the grand staff, where the Soprano and Alto are written on the Treble Clef, while the Tenor and Bass are on the Bass Clef.

When needed, the Soprano and Tenor’s stems will be pointing up, while the Alto and Bass should be pointing down.