Alto: The second-highest vocal part, typically sung by women.
Tenor: The third-highest vocal part, typically sung by men.
Bass: The lowest vocal part, typically sung by men.
In addition to these four main parts, some choirs also include a fifth part called the baritone, which sits between the tenor and bass parts.
Each vocal part has its own unique range, timbre, and function. The soprano part provides the melody and is often the most prominent voice in a choir. The alto part provides harmonic support for the soprano and tenor parts. The tenor part adds depth to the overall sound of the choir and often sings the counterpoint to the soprano melody. The bass part provides the foundation for the choir and often sings the lowest notes in a given piece.
Choirs are often divided into sections based on vocal part:
- Soprano 1 and Soprano 2
- Alto 1 and Alto 2
- Tenor 1 and Tenor 2
- Bass 1 and Bass 2
This allows for greater control over the balance and blend of the choir.
Choir seating
The seating of a choir is also important for achieving the best possible sound. The soprano section is typically seated at the front of the choir, followed by the alto section, then the tenor section, and finally the bass section. This arrangement helps to project the sound of the choir and creates a more cohesive blend of voices.