HarmonyKeen Generates Harmony Parts from Your Melody

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Malsah Labs has released HarmonyKeen, a new application and plugin that automatically writes harmony parts around a given melody. The tool is available for macOS and Windows, with the Mac version released on September 8 and the Windows version following on September 14. HarmonyKeen runs as a standalone app as well as a VST3 and Audio Unit plugin, making it a flexible addition to any DAW-based workflow.

How HarmonyKeen Works

Unlike many generative tools that rely on neural networks, HarmonyKeen uses a rule-based engine grounded in music theory. It first analyzes the entire melody, identifying phrases and cadences, then picks a chord progression and writes additional voices according to standard voice-leading rules. The same melody with the same settings always produces the same result, which gives musicians a predictable and editable starting point.

Users can input melodies via MIDI files, piano roll drawing, a connected keyboard, or directly from a DAW track when using the plugin. The tool supports one to three added voices, placed above, below, or both sides of the melody. It offers a range of styles, from a single companion line to four-part SATB writing, close harmony, jazz voicings, and more.

Features and Integration

Every generated note can be edited, and the output can be dragged directly into a DAW as separate MIDI tracks. HarmonyKeen also generates sheet music with PDF and MusicXML export, compatible with MuseScore, Dorico, Sibelius, and Finale. Automatic key detection is included, with a manual override for fine-tuning.

Features

  • Standalone app and VST3/AU plugin
  • One to three added voices
  • Rule-based, deterministic engine
  • MIDI import, piano roll, keyboard input
  • Sheet music export with PDF and MusicXML
  • Automatic key detection
  • Works with Logic Pro, GarageBand, Ableton Live, Cubase, FL Studio, Reaper

Pricing and Availability

HarmonyKeen is available now at an introductory price of $59, which lasts until the next major engine update. It is a one-time purchase, includes all 1.x updates, and one license covers both platforms. A 7-day free trial is available without a credit card, and a 14-day refund policy applies.

The software requires macOS 11 or later on Apple Silicon, or 64-bit Windows 10 version 2004 or later. For more details and audio examples, visit the official HarmonyKeen website.

Pros

  • Deterministic output based on music theory
  • Exports to DAW as separate MIDI tracks and sheet music
  • Supports multiple harmony styles and voice arrangements

Cons

  • Limited to three added voices
  • No Intel Mac support (requires Apple Silicon)

More info: Malsah Labs | HarmonyKeen