Operation Harold Hill

INSIDE: Harold Hill is back! • Woodshedding: 0% arrangements, 100% fun • 2011 Hall of Fame Class

November/December 2011

November/ December 2011 VOLUME LXXI NUMBER 6

For many years, woodshedding has been relegated to a room up the stairs, down the hallway and around the corner. While it’s definitely no spectator sport, there’s a movement afoot to re-enshrine woodshedding as the ultimate participant sport—the only kind of barbershop that deliv- ers “instant gratification”! Features Harold Hill to the rescue! He writes the songs 10 The last time the Society did Operation Harold 14 Norm Starks is the man who wrote “Sweet and Hill, Society membership shot up. Now’s the time Lovely,” but have you heard the story about the to do the same thing in your chapter! anti-climactic way he was invited to write it? Becca Box, Manager of Membership Services “Montana Jack” Fitzpatrick 13 Welcome new members 2011 Society Hall of Famers We have a lot of new members and a lot of great 22 Earl Moon may have been one of the finest teachers recruiters in our midst. How are you going to get the barbershop world has ever known, but Jerry your name and other’s name on the next list? Orloff is without doubt the best recruiter of all time

On the Cover Portland Skyline Departments Photo: Brent Bradley, Travel Portland

2 8 THE PRESIDENT’S PAGE HARMONY HOW-TO Do one more thing and watch your chapter grow Learn how to interpret barbershop songs 3 23 LETTERS STAY TUNED Reactions to Kansas City Coverage, and Chutzpah! Da Capo in a presidential Christmas performance 4 Man gives right arm in dedication to barbershop STRAIGHT TALK 26 My resolution for 2012: A new Man of Note! MEMBER SERVICE DIRECTORY 5 Where to find answers TEMPO 28 Now you can learn music theory online THE TAG Act fast to get Harmony University scholarships “I can’t See the Good in Goodbye”

November/December 2011 • The HARMONIZER 1 THE PRESIDENT’S PAGE Alan Lamson, Society President • [email protected] Do one more thing and watch your chapter grow

hen I was first selected as your president in mid- a realization among the membership that together 2010, one of the guys in my chapter asked me how we can help ourselves to membership growth rather I was going to find something to write about for than reduction, to better singing rather than The Harmonizer every two months for two years. I accepting the status quo, and of extending W remember saying, “No problem. There is so much the hand of friendship to so many more good stuff going on out there, how could I not find people by sharing our love of music something?” So here it was the beginning of year two with them. As guys in the classes at and I had writer’s block. How could that possibly the Leadership Academy started to happen? realize what we can all do together to improve our membership issues, you Barbershoppers find it easy to could just feel the electricity and the stay busy with worthwhile activities spirit in that room grow. Item# 204523, $1.79 each at I took a deep breath and thought about everything www.harmonymarketplace.com swirling around me. We barbershoppers can be very Realistic New Year’s resolutions busy. As I write this, my own chapter is busy prepar- We all make New Year’s resolutions that are usually ing for its annual show, which, like in most chapters, discarded within a month or two as we settle back is one of the highlights of our year. Polishing notes into our comfort zone, our regular routine, or friend and words so that we can make them into music, and family circles. That is why health club member- selling advertising, selling tickets to our family and ships and attendance soar in January and decline friends (old friends and friends we haven’t met yet), for the remaining 11 months. How much like the and putting those final touches on our uni- health clubs are we individually and as chapters? forms for the show keep us busy and happy as We have an opportunity to do something differ- we contemplate the pending opportunity to ent in the coming year. Make the decision to do entertain so many people. one more thing for you as a barbershopper, for your I just came back from a district Leadership chapter, or for the Society than you did last year, to Academy where spirits were soaring, tags do something different this year than you did last were sung, concepts of chapter leadership year, to make one more new friend than you did were presented and shared, and momentum last year, to recruit one more new member than you grew as men (and women) pre- did last year, to learn one more new song than you Do one more thing, pared to be the best leaders ever did last year and with one less word/note error. Your make one more in 2012. I am not sure what we choice—but isn’t it always? Make the right choice. all enjoyed the most—sharing So I decided that the daylight is getting longer friend, recruit one thoughts and concepts of being now (a sure sign of spring coming) making better more member, or better leaders (I learn so much days, we are having fun learning new music and from being a faculty member at singing for people, we are enjoying the camaraderie learn one more these weekends), singing songs, in our chapters, we are working hard on a new com- song than you did eating plentiful, if not always mittee/committees, we are leading our chapters, we healthful, meals, or tagging until are attending conventions with new vigor, we are last year. You will be 3 a.m. Guys came away so excited telling everyone what we do with our spare time in more satisfied with about the possibilities that lie be- this most enjoyable avocation, we are inviting more fore us in the coming year that I people to join us, and we are more satisfied with your participation. only hope the excitement lasts for our own participation than we have been in years. I the entire 12 months until we do also decided not to write another sentence that long it again. Thoughts of providing a mid-year refresher again. Above all, do what brings you happiness and at the district level—not only for knowledge but to fulfillment: Be a barbershopper. reinforce the enthusiasm—flit through my mind as the art of the possible.

Operation Harold Hill: Many are starting to see that we can really make this work! As we roll out the programs and potential that a focused and concentrated membership effort under the flag of Operation Harold Hill will provide, I see [email protected]

2 The HARMONIZER • November/December 2011 TEMPO Timely news Now you can learn music theory online for free f you’ve always wished 2-4 becoming avail- you had a better under- able in the future. standing of music the- A free Google ac- Iory, now you can learn count is required at your own pace for to view the docu- free at www.barbershop. ments, which are org! Even basic music in Google Docs theory can help any format. barbershopper improve The online course follows the Harmony Univer- sity format of four years theory spaced over six days with a test at the end of each “year.” The courses were created by Society Music Educator his overall Adam Scott with input from other Society staff musicianship, and from more than a dozen barbershoppers run- sight-singing ning the spectrum from beginning to expert music skills, and for theory skill sets. Society Webmaster Eddie Holt aspiring di- has also worked overtime incorporating Ricci rectors, get you closer to your director certification. Adams’ piano widgets and custom aural training. Designed specifically for barbershoppers, the new Try it and start being a better musician and more online course adapts the proven Harmony Univer- skilled barbershopper. sity curriculum to self-paced learning, including Go to www.barbershop.org and click on the edu- worksheets, aurual training exercises, and articles. cation tab, or go to www.barbershop.org/education/ The theory 1 course is already online, with theory music-theory.html Barbershoppers around the world join together in first “virtual chorus” If you’ve been to an international convention, you know what it’s like to combine your voice with barbershoppers from around the world— but have you ever done so from your own home? Dozens of barbershoppers did it in a “virtual chorus,” singing a David Harrington arrangment of “If I Had My Way” under the baton of British barbershopper and organizer Peter Nugent. Each barbershopper recorded an audio/video version to Peter’s visual track then uploaded it to a shared drive for mixing. See the result at http://tinyurl.com/ vchorus. Get details about the next virtual chorus at www.virtual-chorus.com.

November/December 2011 • The HARMONIZER 5 TEMPO

Dozens of Harmony University scholarships available for 2012 The following scholarships are available for Harmony University, all thanks to your generous support of Harmony Foundation. All scholarships include full tuition and board; none include travel costs. To those interested in applying, please first read the full rules for each scholarship athttp://tinyurl.com/HUscholars .

Director’s College. For front-line directors, assistant alaires.org. By May 1, 2012, submit your application directors or aspiring directors who have not received to Jeff Pulice, 9938 Mina Ave., Whittier, CA 90605 a Society/Harmony Foundation Scholarship within or [email protected]. the last five years. Applications must be post-marked no earlier than March 1, 2012 and no later than Larry Ajer. For a successful, active, competing quartet April 1. Download applications at www.barbershop. that wants to reach the next level. Get rules and ap- org and send to Education Department, Attn. Di- plications at http://tinyurl.com/HUscholars. Mail com- rector’s College Scholarship, 110 7th N, Nashville, pleted applications to the Education Department, TN 37203. (Please do not e-mail.) For more info, Attn. Larry Ajer Scholarship, 110 7th N., Nashville, contact Mike O’Neill at [email protected] TN 37203. For more information, contact 800- or 800-876-SING x4126. 876-SING x4122 or [email protected].

Bring your baritone free. If you sign up for the Lou Perry. Goes to the creator of the quartet track at Harmony U, it’s four for the best original arrangement, as evaluated price of three courtesy of Harmony Founda- by eminent arrangers. Songs from any tion and the Larry Ajer endowment. Scholar- era qualify as long as they are arranged ships are limited. Contact slewis@barbershop. in the barbershop style, something that org or 800-876-SING x4122. might be heard on a chapter show. Young arranging talent especially welcome to apply. Dead- Earl Moon. Sponsored by the Whittier, Calif. Chap- line: March 15, 2012. Send electronic files by e- ter, pays tuition for first-time barbershopper attend- mail (preferred, Finale or PDF) to RobCampbell@ ees who might not otherwise have the opportunity aya.yale.edu or by regular mail to Dr. Rob Camp- to attend. Download an application at www.chor- bell, PO Box 9335, San Diego, CA 92169.

Society briefs Online video training for directors. Wanna be a better implemented a $5 annual dues increase per member effec- director? Want better Barberpole Cat singing in your tive Jan. 1, 2012. chapter? Check out four videos on directing technique at www.barbershop.org and participate in the discus- Barbershop on Comcast. Watch some of the best barber- sion. (Hint: Some are intentionally “off”!) Then check shop videos from International Conventions at home out all the other great director resources on the page at through Comcast Xfinity’s On Demand service. Comcast http://barbershop.org/pole-cat-directing-techniques.html. subscribers: just go to the Music Folder, click on Music Picks, and choose the Barbershop Harmony category. New ASCAP form and payments. ASCAP has issued a new Tell your friends, family and fans about this exciting reporting form for 2012, now on the Society’s website at viewing opportunity and let your local Comcast office http://tinyurl.com/ascapbbs. For chapters grossing less than know you appreciate this offering. Watch your e-mail for $51,111.11 for shows performed in 2012, the new mini- LiveWire updates regarding playlist offerings. mum payment will be $230. Send questions about ASCAP or other licensing agreements to [email protected]. World Choir Games adjudicators announced. In its first- ever event on American soil, the World Choir Games Learn Barberpole Cats from Tim Waurick. Learn the Barber- will be held pole Cats via learning tracks by Vocal Spectrum tenor July 4-14, and learning track king Tim Waurick. Individual parts CDs 2012 in are $5, and all four parts cost $18. Get yours at www.har- Cincinna- monymarketplace.com ti—shortly after our international contest. Choruses from around $5 dues increase has begun. Facing ever-increasing costs to the world—including Society groups in the first-ever do business, in order to balance its budget, the Society has “barbershop” category—will be adjudicated by promi-

6 The HARMONIZER • November/December 2011 HARMONY HOW-TO Learn how to interpret barbershop songs nterpretation: “A particular adaptation or version of a trust the arranger’s harmonic choices to turn an old work, method, or style.” chestnut into a feast for the ears. – Webster’s Dictionary Rhythm. This is perhaps the easiest of all elements to identify—it occurs in virtually all of our uptunes, I “Interpretation.” We bandy the word about and especially those arranged by Greg Volk or Aaron think we know what it means, but when it comes Dale. Listen to the Masters of Harmony sing “Ala- time to interpret a song, most of us are lost. We re- bama Jubilee” at the 2011 International Contest. sort to copying what we heard off of a champ’s CD, Even when they slow it down, the underlying rhythm whether or not it highlights our own ensemble’s is foremost in director Mark Hale’s mind as he guides strengths or fills our needs. the chorus through this wonderful Aaron Dale chart. For barbershoppers, “interpretation” denotes the techniques we use to guide The author (right) in the impressive in- the listener on a specific musical journey. ternational debut of GQ in Kansas City We make music, and the listener is moved on an emotional and sometimes physical level. So, how do we accomplish this when tasked with interpreting an arrangement?

Step 1: Identify the song’s most important element In my “Interpretation Demystified” class at Harmony University, we cover in detail how to identify the four major elements of a barbershop song: lyrics, melody, harmony and Combination. Of course, some songs don’t have just rhythm. While all four elements may be found in a one defining element, but rather a combination of given song, in most arrangements and most interpre- the above. In fact, many of our most powerful bar- tive plans, one element will be dominant. bershop performances occur when all the elements Lyric. Barbershop ballads are renowned for be- are combined by the arranger in a magical way. Folks ing lyric songs, and 2011 International Champ Old in Kansas got to hear GQ singing a smoky version of School does nothing to dispel that notion in their “My Foolish Heart.” (Purchase it from nakedvoice- gold medal performance of “Little Town in the Old records.com.) It has a glorious Victor Young melody; County Down.” Of course, being the romantic saps strong, emotional lyrics by Ned Washington; some we are, we barbershoppers tend to think of lyrics— thrilling harmonies created by yours truly; and a “the message”—as always being the most important rhythmic setting reminiscent of the 1950s. Put it all element, but “it ain’t necessarily so.” together with a “mighty awesome” Joe Connelly in- Melody. Some singers—Mike Slamka, Joe Connel- terpretative plan, and the result is memorable! ly, Randy Chisolm, Joe Mazzone—can take a melody and make it soar. For their groups, it’s frequently all Step 2: Let the most important about the shape of the melody! Reigning Sweet Ade- element guide your interpretive decisions lines Queens of Harmony Martini broke onto the You have now identified a chart’s major song scene in 2008 with a stunning performance of a great element(s), but how does that guide decisions? melody song, “All the Way.” The most important element Get your hands on a DVD to Listen to these great performances! Go online to hear some of the examples given in this wins. If you’ve been a barber- Brent hear how they caress this fabu- shopper for long, you have lous Jimmy Van Heusen song. article: Graham • “Little Town in the Old County Down” (tinyurl. performed songs in which you Harmony U Harmony. While this is an caress and emphasize key words faculty, noted element of every barbershop com/OSLittleTown) • “Story of the Rose” (tinyurl.com/ExpRose) and phrases. That’s great for arranger, song, some arrangers—Mike interpreting a lyric song; but in performer, • “Alabama Jubilee” (tinyurl.com/MoHAlabama) judge, bari of Senter and David Wright come a rhythm song, you cannot do GQ quartet to mind—regularly turn harmony on its ear! Listen this at the expense of forward motion. In a melody thegrahams@ to the updated version of “Story of the Rose” by 2011 song, you don’t pause to worship a great chord if do- visi.com fourth-place collegiate quartet Expedition. They ing so interrupts the melodic line. In a harmony song,

8 The HARMONIZER • November/December 2011 Operation Harold Hill When chapters caught the Harold Hill spirit in 1996, we grew by thousands. He’s back.

You are at your first middle school dance, the boys that is the dance floor. You finally make it across. are all lined up on one side and the girls on the other. You reach out your hand to her and say, “Will you Nobody is dancing yet. You begin to gather your dance with me?” courage and scan the line-up. And then… There she is ... the one. Your fragile middle-school What does all of this have to do with barbershop? soul tries to muster the courage to talk to her. Will You have probably already heard, but for all of she laugh in your face? What if she has a boyfriend, 2012 we will have a membership campaign called and he beats you up in front of everybody? Maybe “Operation Harold Hill.” Essentially, we are asking she’ll hate your shoes. You decide she’ll probably just every member to pledge to bring in at least one new say no, and you stay by your friends. member into the Society in 2012. One of your friends has been watching your face. Sounds easy, right? YHe punches you in the arm and issues a challenge: The middle-schooler inside of us knows otherwise. “Just go ask her!” Sometimes it’s hard to start a conversation with You throw caution to the wind. As you walk toward someone you don’t know and ask if he likes to sing. her, you hear the Star Wars main theme playing in What if he says no? Oh, the shame! your head, giving you strength to cross the vast desert Not really. www.operationharoldhill.com

10 The HARMONIZER • November/December 2011 What’s the worst he can do? Say no? If brought in 2,880 new members. Not someone doesn’t like to sing, it’s not like only did they do it, they surpassed your ego was on the line in the first place. their goal! This is no middle school dance. And the more people you ask, the better chance you How does this apply today? are of having someone say yes! Win! Operation Harold Hill 2.0 will follow the We’ll come back to this; first let’s same successful approach as the program in answer some questions. 1996. We are still asking chapters to opt into this program. We are still What is Operation Harold Hill? asking members to dedicate the year Let’s start with a little bit of his- to membership growth for their own tory. Operation Harold Hill is already chapter, however “uncomfortable” it known for its success in 1996, when member- may be to ask strangers if they like to ship numbers headed upwards. The idea was sing. for specific volunteers (“Harold Hills,” like One of the great things about 2012 is that the motivational “professor” in The Music we have revolutionized communication since 1996. Man) to communicate with chapters who had This time, we have www.operationharoldhill.com, opted into the program. Once the chapters were the Operation Harold Hill Facebook group, info in committed to the program, the chapter members LiveWire, and, of course, nearly every member now signed a pledge vowing to bring in at least one new has e-mail. member. One thing that won’t change: Today’s Harold (Can you imagine if we actually did that today? Hills will still be communicating the old-fashioned 25,000 new men in one year! Am I the only one way. They will be assigned chapters who opt in to that gets a rush of excitement from that statement?) the program and will call their leaders on the phone Their goal was to bring in 2,880 new members in to get updates about how the chapter is doing, what the first six months. It took effort on everyone’s part programs they have been following, what troubles to take on the challenge. Effort from the members. they have encountered, etc. Personal communication Becca Box Manager of Effort from the chapters. Effort from the districts. Ef- is key to Operation Harold Hill, so each chapter who Membership fort from the volunteers. Everyone had to have equal elects to be in the program will get a call at least once Services commitment to reach the goal placed before them. a month. Each call will be designed to help the chapter bbox@ Guess what? They did it! In six months, they overcome obstacles and motivate chapter members to barbershop.org

CARTOON BY EDDIE HOLT

November/December 2011 • The HARMONIZER 11 continue on their path to membership growth. Now comes the hard part. Are you ready? Click the link. Type your member number in the What’s in it for me? spot marked “Member Number.” Click “enroll.” The biggest incentive is a healthier, happier chapter. YOU DID IT! Your chapter is now enrolled in Your chapter will have constant communication from Operation Harold Hill! Now look around the website your volunteer “Harold Hill.” There is a website with for ideas other chapters have used to successfully grow a tremendous amount of educational material dedi- membership in their chapters! cated to helping your chapter grow in 2012. If membership growth isn’t enough for you, various prizes I’ve enrolled in Operation will be given to successful chapters and members. Harold Hill, now what? The biggest prize is a trip for two to the 2013 Inter- Shortly after you enroll, you will be contacted by your national Contest in Toronto, six nights of 75th An- Harold Hill to get a feel for your chapter. Be prepared niversary barbershop bliss. Who could ask for more? to answer a bunch of questions regarding chapter health. For example, “What past membership growth How does my chapter opt programs has your chapter been involved in? What in to Operation Harold Hill? are your chapter goals? What are the demographics The first thing to do is assign one person as the “Opera- for your city or town? tion Harold Hill Chairman.” He should already be a What’s the next step for your chapter, you ask? chapter officer, and he will then be the point of contact Go out there are tell people about the hobby that for the volunteers. The next step will be for him to go to you love. Talk to them about your chapter. Ask them www.operationharoldhill.com and sign the chapter up. to come. What’s the worst that could happen? A link to enroll the chapter will be on the front page. Well? What are you waiting for? n www.operationharoldhill.com

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12 The HARMONIZER • November/December 2011 PORTLAND CVB JEFF KRAUSSE

You won’t have to climb Mount Hood to get a high in Portland! The chorus and quartet contests, the tagging and the pure joy of singing will keep you in the clouds all week! What highs are in store in the chorus con- carts, clustered around outdoor seating areas. Unique test this year? What’ll be the big buzz? restaurants, including many varieties of Asian, Italian, Whether drama or comedy, the artistry is always and Mexican, offer a different taste sensation for every inspired! Great Northern Union (LOL) was oh-so-close day of the week. And, if it’s beer you want, Portland to the gold in 2011, coming in a wispy .2 of a point has more microbreweries and brewpubs per capita below Masters of Harmony (FWD) to win the Silver. than any other city in the nation. Note for dining or Now that they have earned a place among the elite, shopping: Oregon is one of those rare states that has GNU will be taking on Ambassadors of Harmony NO SALES TAX! (CSD)—what will AoH do to top their 2009 “76 Trom- bones” routine? After a year off, what will Midwest Another record-setter in the quartet Vocal Express (LOL)—who gave us the “Fish” and competition? Just Might Be! Both Ringmasters “Male Olympic Synchronized Swimming”—come up (SNOBS) and Musical Island Boys (NZABS) will be with next? Who knows what will happen? making a long trip across different ponds in hopes of striking gold in the American West this year. They were Forget flying seafood in from the coast. only .3 of a point apart in 2010, so it’s anybody’s You’re practically on the coast! Sure, this is guess which way that will go. They’ll be seriously chal- salmon country, and you can really load up on the lenged by other contenders, but it’s quite possible we Omega3s here. But if seafood’s not your thing, you could have an overseas champion for the first time! can get great locally-raised steaks too. Portland’s signature cuisine is called “Northwest” because, along Portland is a terrific convention city! with the abundance of seafood, they have beef, buf- Take a beautiful convention center, add an acoustical- falo and free range chicken farms nearby, so dining ly excellent Rose Garden Arena, mix in plenty of great “from farm to table” is a daily treat. Portland is also food and some of the most gorgeous natural scenery known for its plethora of high-quality downtown food in the USA, and you’ll have to say, Portland has it all!

Getting around Portland is a snap—the city is so Registration Pricing walkable, Portland has been named the “Best Walk- Great family packages! ing Town in America” by Prevention Magazine. But Member/Associate/Affiliate Pricing (up to two registrations you don’t have to walk—the MAX Light Rail system is allowed per member at the discounted price): $175 FREE within the convention district! Non-Member Pricing: $189 Youth Pricing (25 & Under): Early Bird $99 Family Four Pack (two adults and two youth from same household): $409

Enter promo code “familypackage” to receive discount. Additional Youth: $25

BRUCE FORSTER The Portland Convention Center

Reserve your room at www.barbershop.org/portland or call 800-650-6835

PORTLAND CVB

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S 5 Crowne Plaza Convention Center Hotel . Hotel 6 Courtyard by Marriott – Lloyd Center togetherCITY atMAP 12:15 to share the joy of singing with the city of Portland. & Johns For current information on MAX lines and other 7 Red Lion Convention Center Hotel Landing transit options, see www.trimet.org. Wednesday:8 Doubletree Hotel FromPortland a 10 a.m. start to a 9:30 p.m. or so (with sever- Harmony Foundation Presents at 1:30 will feature Old School and 9 Embassy Suites Portland Downtown 10 The Benson Hotel al extended breaks TBD), the Quartet Quarterfinalsis theLan eevent Ave. these Masters of Harmony, plus Four Voices, 139 Street Quartet and a host 11 Marriott City Center Hotel guys12 haveHotel Monaco rehearsed for all year. Plenty of time afterward for listening of past collegiate champs in a tribute to the 20th Anniversary of the to the Dixieland Band and tagging with friends old and new. Collegiate Quartet Contest.

Thursday: As the quartet field gets narrower for the Quartet Semi- Saturday night: Great expectations abound this evening as the finals, the suspense gets higher, starting at 11 a.m. Afterward, you’re final ten quartets make their bids for medals. Get warmed up with sure to enjoy the World Harmony Jamboree Dinner Show at 4:15; performances from the new Chorus and Collegiate champs at 6:00, then we’ll cap the day off with the champions at the AIC Show. followed by the Quartet Finals at 7:30. Then by 9:30 or so, you’ll be out on the street or in a lobby somewhere tagging your heart out! Friday: After two sessions of pure entertainment with the cho-

Punchbowl Falls Outdoor eateries Japanese Garden Rose Garden Chinese Garden

Rose Garden Reserve your room at www.barbershop.org/portland or call 800-650-6835 BASIL CHILDERS PORTLAND CVB JEFF KRAUSSE BRUCE FORSTER LARRY GEDDIS

He writes the songs—Norm Starks Attend any barbershop function and work at www.etsy.com/shop/nstarks1.) one song you are certain to hear being Inspirations for songs come from his sung over and over—in hotel lobbies, observations of life around him and on sidewalks, in hospitality rooms—is “deadlines”—like calls from Mac and the song, “Sweet and Lovely” by com- by looking for “what would speak well poser Norm Starks. Beginning in 1965, of people’s experiences in life.” His over the years Norm has written more advice to aspiring songwriters: “Write than a dozen good, square, easy-to-sing from your heart, be yourself and don’t barbershop songs, most arranged by try to imitate others.” He usually writes former Evansville, Ind. Song Fellows the words first; sometimes the words and musical director (and later Society staff music come together. Some of his other field representative) Mac Huff. Norm songs: “Strolling down Harmony Lane,” remembers Mac as the “quintessential “Sleeping Child,” “Southern Lullaby” arranger.” and “Gee, What a Wonderful Day” and In fact, “Sweet and Lovely” was about a dozen others. “inspired” in 1969 by a call from Mac The press of ministry kept him away needing a simple 16- or 32-bar song to from barbershop for many years. In just use in working with chapters to get the 10 years, his congregation in Beloit in- best sound, as he traveled for the Society. Who can forget the Regents, with creased from 250 to 2,000 as he battled As Norm recalls, the conversation was: lead singer Joe Mazzone down on one a heart attack and cancer surgery. After “Write me a song.” In 1971, after the knee singing “Little Girl,” on the way to many years away from composing bar- addition of a verse, (after another phone becoming the 1974 International quar- bershop songs, Norm has recently found call from Mac: “Write me a verse”) the tet champion? Years later, when Norm renewed inspiration and has two new song was published by the Society. was walking Trisha down the aisle at her songs in the works. During those years, Called early in life, Norm spent more wedding, he managed to slip a quartet Norm continued to write gospel songs, than 40 years as a minister, including for into the church to sing the song for her. including “Walkin’ on the Heaven two and a half years after he had retired. After spending 25 years ministering Road,” which is sung all over the world. His first song came to him on the way in Evansville (15 as music minister), He also writes songs for vacation Bible to a ministry conference in St. Louis in Norm transferred to Beloit, Wis., where schools. 1965. After she had tearfully plead with he continues to live. Norm and his wife, For those days when everything goes him not to go away, he looked back Phyllis, have a total of five children wrong, Norm says: “There is always at the end of the driveway to see his and eight grandchildren. In retirement, tomorrow” and looks for the good that daughter, Trisha, standing in the front Norm has become an award-winning God is working through the experience. window, smiling and waving goodbye. painter of landscapes and pets. This year, About life, Norm’s credo is: “Honor Over the next three hours, driving to his painting of an old barn, tired with the God, be your best, never give up.” Great St. Louis, with that picture in his mind, years and leaning over, won a regional and timeless advice from one of our Norm composed “Little Girl,” which he award and is headed for the Wisconsin favorite song writers, Norm Starks. recorded on some napkins. state competition. (View some of his art- – “Montana Jack” Fitzpatrick

Rob Wareham Michael Moulds Chris Casey Dana Martin Matt Moody James Covey Donald Duperon Illinois Andrew O’Haver Johnny Robert Thompson Kevin Harrison Kevin DeVolld Ashton Wingate Fred Watson Caleb Betczynski Al Terry Appleseed David Clendinning Robert Thompson Bob Potts Fred Schmidt Steve Shurtliff Mark Betczynski Ronald Peake Tyler Allen John L Fuller Marty Hibbard Morton Katz Walter Witham Ralph Wickwire John Bradley Leon Snow Tom Raab Trey Coburn Robert Udeck Ryan Praetzel Bari Courts Richard Kellam John Jeide Chuck Sanders Stanley Allenby Randy Baughman Royce Huston Robert Praetzel Scott Wycuff Jim Wilkerson Eric Brucker Gary Cook Richard Hills Bob Coffey Robert Huston Jonathan Ramsey Robert Thompson Don Tew Denny Thomas Michael Siesenop Mike Alverson Gordon Knecht Del Johnson John Power Matt Wilkerson Bradley Davis George Fishbein Robert Udeck Larry Curl Bobby Knisley Jacob Schlichting Land O’ Bill Weiser Kevin Deets Charles Smith Keith Apelgren David Johnson Stephen Kersey Neil Miller Lakes Harry Williams Stephen Dinkins Robert Vokal Stanley Kleja Nicholas Denino Gary Lewis Sam Schlievert Greg Berry Lamar Parrish Lee Sanders Mark Styczynski Robert Bistor Stephen Denino Mark Kirschner Matthew Hopper James Trainor William William- Charles Heinz Kevin Deets Bryce Simmons Doug Denzer John Duker Alex Siracki James Butler son, Jr. Wayne Wirth Dwight Tell Gary Bivins Donald Wolbert Eric Koeller Robert Thompson Larry Daby Bill Kamper Dan Hurst Tom Woodall John Duker Nathaniel Fessler Doug Foulkes Fred Szabo Alan Ciesielczyk Ryan Wisniewski Jerry Strode Tom Thompson, Jr Ben Blaney Donald Dressler John Lynch Gerald Arnold Dennis Jacobson Ed Cotton Patrick Kelley Greg Caetano James Ramsey Adam Funk Joseph Novelly Arthur Thomas Sean Ciske Al Woods John Bobell Ronald Tulley Ryan Block Matthew Cook Steve Matkovich John Martin Kenneth Felton Keith Eckhardt Dan Lutter Hank King Keegan Gillilan Dennis Geibel James Sams Ted Thomas Kirk Douglas Andrew Wright Robert Scheible Dennis Vala David Boor Edward Leech Wade Meyer Larry McCloskey Paul Martz Jordan Johnson Justin Masten Tom Stelte Wallace Wright Keegan Gillilan James Klinksick Anthony Vrana Joel Fischer Danny Young Danny Hicks Jack Wine Harrisen Carney Joseph Fraley John Mihai William Sutherland John Curtis Marshall Woodward Ben Mollet Ronald Schulz Zachary Coleman Jonathan Grodi Keegan Gillilan Ryan Wells Billy Fonseth

14 The HARMONIZER • November/December 2011 THE WAY THEY NEVER USED TO SING BARBERSHOP. Tulsa’s 1941 international champ Chord Busters behaved nothing like the men who had harmonized on a Tulsa rooftop in 1938. They won the international contest on their first try after practicing in- cessantly, taking professional voice lessons (above) and doing something no prior competitor had seemingly ever done: They used written arrangements. Some observers were scandalized, although within a year many other quartets were following suit. In hindsight, the Chord Busters may have marked the end of an era in which barbershop singing was primarily associated with “ear harmonies.” Today, there is a movement among some barbershoppers to bring woodshedding back into the barbershop mainstream—both to preserve the art of ear singing and to encourage more singing for the pure fun of singing. 0% arrangements, 100% fun AHSOW seeks to help barbershoppers rediscover the joy of creating harmonies out of thin air—the way everybody sang barbershop during the early, explosive Society years

On the Roof Garden of the Tulsa Club on April 11, As of late, woodshedding, for the most part, has been 1938, O.C. Cash and Rupert Hall hosted a songfest. relegated to a room down the hall, around the corner, It was a night filled with wonderful song and har- through the doors and up the stairwell. That is where mony without the assistance of sheet music or the you will find three men harmonizing to the melody four-part arrangements with which we are familiar. sung by a fourth man. This is where woodshedding has Making up the harmonies as they went wasn’t just been for many years. As the next generation discovers one way to experience barbershop—for these men the barbershop art form, there is a movement afoot to and countless others in the years before 1938, this re-establish woodshedding as an essential skill within was the only way to sing barbershop. The birth of our craft. our great Society can, in part, be attributed to an Founded by Charles Nichols at the 1977 interna- Oinvitation to join in woodshedding. For many men tional convention, the Ancient Harmonious Society during the explosive early years of the Society, the of Woodshedders (AHSOW) has embarked on a terms “barbershop harmony” and “woodshedding” new initiative to help barbershoppers at the chapter, were nearly synonymous. district and international level experience the way our

November/December 2011 • The HARMONIZER 17 Singing written arrangements can be like riding a pony in a circle at a fair. Woodshedding is Woodshedding—when you want like being put on a horse, to study your part, no such thing instant barbershop gratification having somebody slap as wrong notes, no tweaking the What is it like to woodshed? “It is same phrase again and again until unlike any other barbershop ex- its rump, and off you go, you get it right. If it sounds right, perience you will encounter,” says unencumbered by halters it is right, because you’re making Erik Deland, Corporate Secretary it up as you go. of AHSOW. “The magic comes or restraints. “It’s like crafting your own ar- when you hear chords for the very rangement of that song every time first time. It’s off the scale on the goosebump factor.” you sing it,” Deland explains. Woodshedding is instant gratification—the thrill The purpose of woodshedding is more to ring chords of harmonizing minus the work of sight-reading sheet than it is to sing songs. Experienced woodshedders music or replaying a learning track over and over. Be- tend to use melodies for which the harmony part cause you are harmonizing from the other side of your singers have never heard a written arrangement. brain, it’s all the reward without all the work. No need (AHSOW’s “Woodshedding Folio” is filled with such Preserving the type of fun that originally drew men into the Society Our original (and still official) Society name very essence of who we are, as a Society, would included the word “preservation.” For decades, suffer a severe blow. We could lose this connection Barbershoppers have argued about the technical to singing for one’s own enjoyment. We would definitions of “true barbershop,” but we have al- lose the thrill that comes when average singers ways agreed that we are trying to preserve the thing can, instead of sorting through arrangements and that attracted many men to the Society in its early trying to learn them, simply find a quiet corner years. In 1947, then Society president Charles M. where they make up their own arrangement by ear. Merrill discussed concerns with the movement We’d lose the connection to a time when not only away from the “true barbershop” that had attracted songs by talented arrangers are heard, but the best many men to the Society in its early days: of the “arranged by ear” works also get standing ovations. (Boston Common, anyone?) Four years ago, I wrote long and argumenta- While woodshedding provides one of the key tive letters to Carroll and Phil Embury to the links to who we were as a Society; the art form has effect that as far as I could see the Society was virtually remained the same. It encourages partici- doing nothing to preserve and encourage that pation to any caliber of singer to express himself in “true” barbershopping. It was encouraging a fun and free harmonizing style, unencumbered and preserving perfected quartetting for the by notes on a paper. audience. Free harmonizing or “woodshedding” Conversely, many of us know what it is like to was being ignored because, comparatively, it attend a three-hour chapter meeting where the had little audience appeal. Yet barbershop had sole purpose is to make sure every vowel and every become popular originally because it was fun to note of a particular arrangement is spot on. Setting sing that way. The source of its popularity—the aside questions of what it takes for a group to prog- reason for its revival by O.C. Cash—was its ap- ress, what percentage of directors or singers can peal as participation music, not audience music. honestly state that such a grueling evening is fun? – President’s column, The Harmonizer, One simple way to make an evening a little bit Nov/Dec 1947 issue, page 6 more palatable is to regularly switch gears com- Preparing to sing for an audience is one thing, pletely. Give singers the chance to have some fun but sometimes you need to sing for singing’s sake developing another part of their musical minds. because it is fun! Fun is what O.C. Cash was Give them the opportunity to break out and promoting that first night on the Tulsa rooftop in woodshed a song or two. There is nothing more 1938. For earlier barbershoppers, woodshedding exhilarating than discovery singing, woodshed- was not one way to sing barbershop harmony, it ding through a song, hearing a cluster of notes was the only way. Woodshedding was pure fun, un- create a chord you’ve never heard before. This is Chris Scappatura limited by anything but the imagination. It still is. barbershop, this is woodshedding, this is fun and chris@ If the art of woodshedding were to die out, the this is what we need to preserve. contagious enthusiasm.com

November/December 2011 • The HARMONIZER 19 The Four Rascals are considered one of the best quartets in Society history, despite never having won an international gold medal. Like the Boston Common (see next page), they had a unique and powerful sound that made them stand apart from their contemporaries. And like the Bos- ton Common, they were prolific woodshedders who created many of their most popular songs by ear. For both quartets, the woodshedding was essential to the development of a sound and a repertoire that no other four voices could match.

melodies.) If harmony part singers are sound can learn to woodshed a song. not familiar with the song, the quartet AHSOW counts members of all might sing the melody once together in ages, and you don’t need to know unison to get a feel for the song. Then any music theory or have extensive it’s just a matter of choosing parts, then barbershop experience. Just “guess” hold on tight and hear what happens! which notes you think your part When woodshedding, you usually should have relative to the melody, sing the song slowly, allowing for each and you’ll be surprised how often chord you have created to lock and ring. those guesses work! It is not an exact science, and that’s • Myth 2: Something that sounds so raw what creates the magic moments. You’re can’t be much fun. Woodshedding moving along singing the song and all of is absolutely not a spectator sport! a sudden a chord will expand and lock. It’s not intended for an audience’s BAM! Your eyebrows lift, eyes light up, ears—it’s for the participants’ enjoy- goosebumps pop and you may even sit ment and musical growth alone. You on the chord a little longer just to enjoy cannot appreciate the fun of wood- it. Instant gratification! shedding by listening to it. Only after you try it yourself will you “get it.” Woodshedding’s image problem: • Myth 3: The risk of embarassment is Debunking three common myths too high. When you’re merely guessing Unfortunately, woodshedding suffers what notes the other harmony singers an image problem among many barber- will sing next, unexpected chords are shoppers. Some assume woodshedding the norm. Some chords will give you is only for old men; some may even sus- goosebumps, while others will be so pect it is only for barbershoppers who awful you’ll laugh out loud. Many bar- don’t appear to sing especially well. In bershoppers have overheard too much such cases, there are typically three of the latter, or have heard snarky major misunderstandings at work: comments from other barbershop- • Myth 1: Woodshedding is only for ex- pers who don’t “get” woodshedding. perts and/or purists. While it is true Don’t let that stop you from trying that “original style” barbershop sing- something you may grow to love. Like ing is particularly popular among our any endeavor, you’ll get better with most experienced barbershoppers, practice. “Of course there are different anyone familiar with the barbershop levels of singing,” says Noah Morrison,

20 The HARMONIZER • November/December 2011 The 2011 class of the Society Hall of Fame The Barbershop Harmony Society Hall of Fame was established to bestow Society recognition and honor to members and quartets—living or dead—for exceptional contributions to the life blood of the Society barbershop experience. There is no maximum or minimum limit on the number of inductees in a given year. The award criteria fall into general categories of music and administration/leadership. For the music criiteria, high importance is given to judging, arranging, composing, chorus directing, coaching and singing. In administration/leadership, consideration is given to service as an officer, advisor, and in planning, writing or editing.

his local chapter in Northern including the California and heavily involved Far Western- in introducing and propagating ers, who placed barbershop music in the commu- in the top 10 at nity high schools. Jerry Orloff is international for unquestionably one of our giants of all 10 years of preservation and encouragement. competing. Earl was one Earl Moon (1928-1996) was a ju- of the most out- nior in high school in Kansas City, standing teach- Mo. when Joe Stern introduced ers the Society has ever known. He was him to barbershop. Earl joined a prolific arranger, master barbershop the Society in 1945. Later that craftsman and coach. When he passed year, he joined the U.S. Navy and away in 1996, the outpouring of love ended up in Long Beach, Calif. in and admiration from fellow barber- 1949. There he met and married shoppers was incredible to behold. n For more than four decades, Jerry Orloff Millye. In 1950 they welcomed has been a major creative spirit behind their daughter, Melanye. some of the Society’s most effective It was in the Far Western District Download and lasting programs in membership where he developed and honed his thousands of your recruitment and in showcasing the skills as one of the greatest barber- favorite contest best in barbershopping throughout the shoppers ever. Over a period of years, world. Largely to his credit, Auditions he sang with the Long Beach, Santa performances from for Admission, the World Harmony Monica and San Fernando choruses www.iTunes.com Jamboree, the World Harmony Ex- and directed the Downey Chorus to Search the online library change, and Sing With the Champs a third-place finish at the 1961 inter- with the keywords are efforts that have made immeasur- national convention. “barbershop contest” able positive impact upon both our From 1970-1995 he directed the existing membership and the viewing Whittier Choralaires and taught tag public. Jerry epitomizes the “Man of singing and woodshedding at Har- Note,” having sponsored over 200 men mony College. During all those years into Society membership—a standing he sang baritone in many quartets, record. Jerry and wife, Kim, have orga- nized and/or participated in numer- ous performing and teaching tours including Mexico, China, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland and Russia. He is also one of the founders of the Mixed Harmony Barbershop Quartet Association, providing assistance and support for those who wish to sing in a mixed gender mode (often with a spouse). Jerry has shared our art form across the globe, where he performed barbershop harmony in Chinese, Maori, and Russian! He remains active in

22 The HARMONIZER • November/December 2011 STAY TUNED Success! Readers report what works A presidential performanceq in D.C. for Da Capo n a televised performance attended live by 14,000 the National Park Service and the National Park spectators and 5,000 additikonal dignitaries from Foundation, the official charity of America’s Na- around the world, Da Capo helped kick of the tional Parks. Originally started by President Calvin 2011 Cristmas season with a performance at the Coolidge in 1923, this year’s ceremony marks the I National Tree Lighting Ceremony. In attendance 89th National Christmas Tree Lighting. The annual at the Dec. 1 performance were ongressmen, event has become an American holiday tradition. senators, diplomats, and President Barak Obama and his family. The performance took place at the Ellipse at President’s Park in Washington, D.C. For 2011 In- ternational Semifinalist Da Capo (MAD), the day started with train rides and busy metro systems as they made their way to the park. Upon arriving, the guys were screened, briefed, issued security badges, briefed again, and escorted into a secured area behind the stage. “It was pretty surreal to perform for nearly 20,000 onlookers, with the massive National Christmas tree Ryan Griffith (T), Anthony Colosimo (L), Wayne Adams (Bs) over one shoulder and The White and Joe Sawyer (Br) share the joy with 14,000 spectators and House over the other,” said tenor 5,000 dignitaries from around the world. Ryan Griffith. “We did almost miss the entire event though, as everyone backstage was Wonder how they got the gig? After they were restricted to tents for the arrival of the First Family. announced the winner in the Harmony Sweep- Luckily we were able to sweet talk our way to the stakes regional contest for the D.C. area in May, staging area in time to see the limo pull up and the they did what all good barbershoppers do—they Presidential family arrive. We were truly honored to were greeting people in the lobby. A lady ap- have had this opportunity, and look forward to being proached them and asked if they would be in- called upon to serve for future events.” terested in singing for the Christmas event, and The event was replayed on public television sta- of course they said yes, gave her their card and tions throughout the month of December. The thanked her for coming. Many months later she National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony marks emailed them with the detals. It was a matter of the opening of a four-week event sponsored by right place, right time, right stuff!

Beach Music cuts up as “Quartet in Residence” on the Battleship North Carolina Looks like Kent Atkins of Beach Music (NSC) could get more than just a haircut here, with other members Richard Millard, Lou Leiner and Andre Brillaud coming at him with scissors from all sides (watch out for the ears)! They are in the naval barbershop aboard the Battleship North Carolina, where they have been named official “Barbershop Quartet in Residence.” The same day this photo was taken, they had sung for the Ceremony of Reflection commemorating the 50th anniversary of the day the ship came into Wilmington, and they’ll be singing at least once a month for future events. These guys have more fun—recently they were clowns in an episode of One Tree Hill—what’s next?

November/December 2011 • The HARMONIZER 23 STAY TUNED q

Jim DeBusman leads the AAMBS Harmony College students in their morning vocal warm-up

Highlights from September’s Pan-Pacific Convention Down Under Every three or four years, barbershoppers from competitions. Four Society Judges, Jim DeBusman the Pacific Rim gather together in a five-day con- (Singing), Marty Lovick (Presentation), Rick Spen- vention not unlike the Society’s International cer (Music), and Russ Young (Singing) made the Convention. This year, more than 1,000 barber- special trip over to serve alongside other judging shoppers, including 46 quartets and 26 choruses panel members from AAMBS, Graeme Gainsford from Hawaii, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan (Presentation), Neville Kennedy (Presentation) and all participated in Brisbane, Australia. The con- NZABS, David Brooks (Music). When the dust set- vention is a healthy mix of shows, contests, and tled, Shore Boys won the NZABS quartet contest other convention-related activities, and headliners and Alliance won both the AAMBS and PanPac Storm Front (2010 International Champion). Open contests. Chorus contests were won by Vo- The Young Singers in Harmony A Cappella Festi- cal Evolution (AAMBS and PanPac Open) and val and Competition featured choruses and quartets the City of Sails Barbershop Chorus (NZABS). from across Australia. Top honors went to the Fes- Congratulations to them all! tival Statesmen Youth Chorus Special congratulations and thanks go to the and the Fishbowl Boys! The Brisbane’s River City Clippers for successfully second was an evening show the hosting this fantastic convention in such a beauti- same day featuring the youth ful city. chorus and quartet medalists Following the Pan Pacific Convention, approxi- as well as Storm Front. It was a mately 150 people stayed over to attend the AAMBS great start to an exciting week. Harmony College. Faculty consisted of several folks This year’s competitions fea- from AAMBS, Society Judges Jim DeBusman, Rick tured entries in the “PanPac Spencer, and Russ Young, as well as Storm Front. Open” where all groups were Students selected classes ranging from Directing eligible to compete on the same Techniques to Theory, to Private Vocal instruction. stage as competitors for the For more info on the convention, go to www. AAMBS and NZABS national panpac2011.org.au.

Barbershopper gives his right arm in dedication to the hobby Shaun Ellis of the Calgary Foothills Chapter (NED) has de- voted one arm, at least, to the barbershop hobby. He’s been a member for more than 20 years, and he figured it’s pretty much a permanent fixture in his life, so he decided that a permanent tattoo would reflect his devotion. He printed out the old Soci- ety logo, the new logo, a piece of tag music and a quartet gold medal, drew a sketch of what he wanted, and took it to his tattoo artist. Because of the time involved and his budget, it took about a year to complete the design. Shaun is a member of the Western Hospitality Singers, where he is the tenor section leader and assistant chorus manager. He also does some quartetting and is looking forward to forming a competitive quartet.

24 The HARMONIZER • November/December 2011 THE TAG Joe Liles, Tagmaster!! A new (to you) great one from Joe Liles ack in the late ’60s (during the to do with the act of imbibing! last century), I arranged an old (Although some may think (1919) song/ballad, “I Can’t See it produces the same result. I the Good in Goodbye.” I just wouldn’t know, of course.) Bdiscovered that I had a hand- Notable, too, in this restruc- written copy in my files and stole tured harmonic highway at the the tag from it. After looking it close of the tag, is the move to a over and deciding to resurrect major chord a whole step below it for The Harmonizer, I chose to the tonic that includes a ninth fancy up the last few measures a in the tenor. Didn’t hear much bit and provide the bass with a of this back in those days. It was solo tiddly. considered a no-no. Sure is a joy “Tiddly” is an obscure musical to sing, though, and it fits well term introduced to us by the late into the stack of harmonics. Dave Stevens. It means “a fun Hope you enjoy singing this thing to do”—and has nothing one. n

28 The HARMONIZER • November/December 2011 HarmonyU_2012_full_page_ad.pdf 1 1/12/2012 1:04:10 PM

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