The quality that makes barbershop harmony different from other choral music is the blend of the four parts in a cone-shaped sound:

• TENOR - is the highest part and is harmony sung above the melody.  The tenor sings with sufficient maturity of sound to compliment the lower voices.
• LEAD - is responsible for conveying the interpretation, emotion, and inflection of the song, with the other parts supporting with inflection, artistry, and finesse.  Since the lead generally carries the melody, the part is sung with authority, clarity, and consistency.
• BARITONE - is sung sometimes above and sometimes below the melody.  Although singing with the same vocal range as the lead, the baritone must sing with depth of tone in order to fill the gap between lead and bass.
• BASS - is the lowest part and is the foundation for the cord.  This part is sung primarily in the lower register with a mellow and melodic quality.  The tone produced should be rich, full and broad with clarity and focus.