COURSE OVERVIEW

Welcome to EarthTab Business School. My name is Krishna Reddy and I will be your course preceptor for the course, Singing in Harmony and Backups. Singing in Harmony and Backups is a comprehensive, technique-rich course designed for aspiring and intermediate vocalists who seek to master the art and science of vocal harmony and background singing. This course is not merely about adding "second voices" or being a backup presence, it’s about becoming a well-rounded, musically intelligent vocalist who understands musical structure, vocal layering, emotional expression, and performance dynamics.

Harmony is the foundation of most great music, it adds depth, emotion, color, and professionalism to a vocal performance. Likewise, skilled backup singers are often the unsung heroes of hit songs, live concerts, and studio productions. This course bridges the gap between lead and support roles, ensuring that vocalists can contribute confidently in any setting.

Course Purpose

This program trains you to:

• Understand vocal harmony from basic to advanced levels
  
  

• Develop strong ear training and pitch accuracy
  
  

• Learn the emotional, spiritual, and musical responsibilities of a backup singer
  
  

• Blend seamlessly with lead vocals and other background singers
  
  

• Perform with confidence in live and studio environments
  
  

• Build professional etiquette for group rehearsal, worship teams, recording projects, or band gigs

Course Depth & Scope

This course is intentionally broad and deep, covering the following domains:

1. Theoretical Foundation

• Understanding the intervals that make harmonies (thirds, fifths, sevenths, etc.)
  
  

• Knowing how harmonies function in different genres (Gospel, Pop, R&B, Afrobeat, Classical, etc.)
  
  

• Learning basic music theory: scales, keys, progressions, and chordal movements

2. Ear Training & Pitch Precision

• Daily routines to sharpen ear sensitivity
  
  

• Recognizing key changes and modulations
  
  

• Singing harmonies without relying solely on instruments

3. Performance Techniques

• Proper breathing, posture, and projection
  
  

• How to “find your part” in a live or studio setting
  
  

• Techniques for controlling vocal dynamics and intensity
  
  

• Effective microphone handling and positioning

4. Group Synergy and Etiquette

• Building trust and unity in a vocal team
  
  

• Following the musical direction of a lead singer or director
  
  

• Respecting the sound balance, not overpowering others
  
  

• Avoiding vocal competition and clashes

5. Studio & Live Application

• Multi-layered vocal stacking in recording
  
  

• Using harmonies to build choruses, bridges, intros, and outros
  
  

• How to prepare for professional rehearsals and studio sessions
  
  

• Navigating in-ear monitors, click tracks, and cue signals

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, you will be able to:

• Sing harmony parts confidently in trios, quartets, or full vocal ensembles
  
  

• Identify the correct backup role for different sections of a song
  
  

• Lead vocal rehearsals and support the lead singer effectively
  
  

• Record layered background vocals for professional use
  
  

• Understand harmony placement, timing, and how to avoid clashing

Course Customization & Flexibility

• For Worship Teams: Emphasis on spiritual flow, altar call harmony, and prophetic support vocals
  
  

• For Studio Singers: Focus on vocal stacking, blending across mics, and isolation booths
  
  

• For Bands & Live Groups: Syncing with instruments, group transitions, and crowd engagement
  
  

• For Solo Singers: How to create your own harmonies or work with backup singers for full sound

Global Relevance

This course draws from global vocal styles, from African call-and-response to Western quartet harmonies, from acapella to modern pop layering. Whether you’re singing in a village choir, a megachurch worship team, or a professional studio, the skills you’ll gain will serve you universally.

Accreditation Alignment

The content is developed to align with music performance standards set by:

• Trinity College London (Vocals; Group Performance)
  
  

• ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music)
  
  

• Worship Vocalist Certification Programs
  
  

• Contemporary Music Schools and Academies

The course is also suitable for certificate issuance under your organization, business school, music academy, church school, or creative arts training center.

What You’ll Need:

• A working singing voice
  
  

• Basic music knowledge (optional, but helpful)
  
  

• Recording device (phone is fine)
  
  

• Headphones and microphone (for studio learners)
  
  

• Willingness to rehearse, listen, and grow

I look forward to congratulating you upon completion of this course.