Sustained by Harmony How a Barbershop Community Helped the Reen Family Through Tragedy

BRINGING BARBERSHOP HARMONY TO LIFE • JULY/AUGUST 2020

SUSTAINED BY HARMONY HOW A BARBERSHOP COMMUNITY HELPED THE REEN FAMILY THROUGH TRAGEDY

NOTEWORTHY SPOTLIGHT TIP SHEET HARMONIZING WITH EACH OTHER THE DEADPAN QUARTET THAT’S HOW TO DECIDE WHEN FROM OUR KITCHEN TABLES GOTTEN LAUGHS FOR 77 YEARS TO LISTEN ... OR NOT LISTEN barbershop.org | July/August 2020 | The Harmonizer | 1 In This Issue JULY/AUGUST 2020 • VOLUME LXXX • NUMBER 4

28 In Every Issue 4 Starting Pitch + Letters Flexibility + Resolve = Barbershop Happiness Acaville Radio, “Poor taste” rules

8 Noteworthy Quartetting from a world apart Harmony Brigade’s top ambassadors

33 Chapter Eternal Schools and colleges can now have official Members reported as deceased between BHS barbershop clubs. Patrick Blaha talks March 15 and May 15, 2020 about the club at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, while Dr. Jacob Bartlett discusses how to make chapter 34 Member Services Directory membership more attractive to students. How to contact your leaders, where to get answers

36 The Tag Features Departments “When There’s Love At Home” 16 Virtual HU–all throughout July 12 Tip Sheet All the great instruction you’ve heard about, and Your chorus or quartet will receive an endless for a quarter the cost of attending in person. supply of advice from coaches, friends, family members, judges, directors–a variety of well- 18 Harmonizing through tragedy intentioned voices. But should you always listen? Four-part harmony help the Reens cope during their father’s cancer diagnosis, as well as after. 14 Spotlight A quartet since 1943 and registered since 1950, 24 Legacy Quartet Championship The Gay Nineties Quartet has been making Join us online in August to choose the best BHS audiences laugh ever since–all while the quartet quartet that never won International gold. members never crack a smile.

On the cover: The Reen Family Quartet in 2011 Photo by Cindy Wagner 24

Connect with us YouTube: BarbershopHarmony38 Twitter: @barbershopnews barbershop.org Facebook: barbershopharmonysociety Instagram: @barbershopharmonysociety HOPE DAVIDSON

2 | The Harmonizer | July/August 2020 | barbershop.org GENERAL CORRESPONDENCE/EDITORIAL [email protected]

EDITOR Lorin May

OUR VISION Everyone in Harmony

OUR MISSION To bring people together in harmony and fellowship to enrich lives through singing.

OUR PURPOSES To perpetuate the old American institution: the barbershop quartet and barbershop harmony

To promote appreciation of barbershop harmony

To initiate and maintain a broad program of musical education, contests, and appreciation in support of barbershop harmony and the allied arts

To establish and maintain foundations that support our vision

To initiate, promote and participate in charitable projects that support our vision

The Society for the Preservation and Encouragement of Barber Shop Quartet Singing in America, Inc. (DBA Barbershop Harmony Society) is a non-profit organization operating in the United States and Canada.

July/August 2020 Volume LXXX Number 4 Complete contact info: pages 34-35

The Harmonizer (ISSN 0017-7849) (USPS 577700) is published bimonthly by the Barbershop Harmony Society, 110 7th Ave N, Nashville TN 37203-3704. Periodicals Postage Paid at Nashville TN and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Harmonizer, 110 7th Ave N, Nashville TN 37203-3704.

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barbershop.org | July/August 2020 | The Harmonizer | 3 STARTING PITCH A conversation with our President and CEO

Flexibility + Resolve = Barbershop Dick Happiness Marty

We’re seeing it already: Barbershoppers will always find ways to barbershop

BRIAN LYNCH: Usually these Starting They’re trying to find ways, even when we’re coming for the fellowship, and Pitch conversations are “evergreen,” it may not be a perfect solution. We sometimes squeeze in some harmony. not tied to specific times or events. have built-in opportunistic energy and Meanwhile, as you said, chapters are But the pandemic and quarantine are entrepreneurial spirit. figuring out for themselves how to right here in our face, changing daily. DICK: When you have a group of peo- deliver the singing part while isolated. Anything we predict today could be ple who share a vision and an under- DICK: Roxanne and I started a far outdated by the time this magazine standing of the values they stand for, mixed harmony chorus a couple of reaches readers, right? when the unexpected event occurs, years ago and we specifically sought MARTY: Not completely. We have the people don’t wait for a phone call. out people who had never sung a cap- to compartmentalize what’s in our They look at what’s going on, and they pella and had never sung barbershop. control versus what isn’t. Although our choose actions that make sense to We now have 16 members, men and business is challenged operationally, them. Across the Society, women and women, and they’ve been asking for our core —our reason for existence, men are looking at their local situa- help learning more barbershop craft. who we are as Barbershoppers and as tions, and making intelligent choices Katie Taylor agreed to do a remote a Society—is definitely the same. We so that they can continue to enjoy session, but five minutes before we can predict that and know that with harmony and fellowship. started, she had a massive power fail- absolute certainty. MARTY: Strange as it sounds, this ure in her area. She plunged ahead, Our business has already started situation is creating opportunity for delivering the course from her cell pivoting. We didn’t need to issue any the Society and the choral ecosys- phone, hoping like heck the power edict down the organization. People tem in general to validate the mental didn’t run out. We had 15 of the 16 are already taking the reins. That’s the health benefits of singing together. members of our chorus online. The beauty of our organization: our mem- We’ve always taken for granted that next morning, members of the chap- bers understand where their souls fit people come for the singing and stay ter were asking “When’s the next one into creating harmony and singing. for the fellowship. Well, these days, going to be?” MARTY: That wouldn’t have hap- pened before. Now we’ve got people begging for more classes and using the Get in Touch resources we have. We’re seeing more Dick Powell, Society President [email protected] cross pollination among chapters, more coaches scheduling time with Marty Monson, CEO/Executive Director [email protected] more choruses—sometimes three or four in a single night! People are getting around even more now than they

4 | The Harmonizer | July/August 2020 | barbershop.org used to because of necessity. WE MIGHT EMERGE FROM THIS When a caterpillar goes into a chrys- alis, it doesn’t slowly grow wings onto LOOKING VERY DIFFERENT; BUILT its existing body. It actually melts down FROM THE SAME HERITAGE to a soup of DNA and nutrients, and DNA, BUT WITH MANY NEW AND basically grows a new organism from BHS Board of Directors scratch. BHS might be doing that right COLORFUL WAYS OF LIVING OUR June 22 Board candidate now. We might emerge from this look- BARBERSHOP LIVES TOGETHER. interviews; July 11-12, ing very different; built from the same heritage DNA, with the same values and Summer Meeting and same bonds, but many new and color- elections (virtual) ful ways of living our barbershop lives together. feeling is totally getting replicated. Peo- Marty is attending Imagine the next time we all stand on ple go in with a smile and come out with Weekly virtual chorus the risers together. We’ve been working a gut laugh and cheeks hurting because rehearsals, meetings, and really hard individually, taking private they’re feeling fed. We’re getting that vocal instruction, learning music at heartfelt mental need satisfied. happy hours home. By the time we get together, the In fact, many chapters are saying that value of being together is going to be so they’re getting better attendance now Dick is attending high that everyone is going to want to than they ever have before, because June 2, Arlingtones’ virtual be great that first time back. they’re seeing members who aren’t even rehearsal/BHS Q&A session DICK: You can’t say too much about in town anymore, but heard there’s a the emotional value and the bonding video feed, so they’re hopping on. Full Circle Mixed Harmony value of finally seeing people up close DICK: One chapter I attended had been (bass sectional Tuesdays, and personal. I remember attending planning a Disney package and hadn’t yet chorus rehearsal Wednesdays) my chapter meeting after six weeks of selected costumes. Do you have any idea bed rest following major surgery. We what it’s like to watch guys on a Zoom Patapsco Valley BHS virtual arrived about 30 minutes into the meet- call going online to the Disney Store and rehearsal (every other Tuesday) ing, and I took about four steps into the picking out costume pieces? room, and suddenly, everyone stopped MARTY: We’re seeing some chapters Marty is learning singing, turned toward me, and broke getting fed more now because they’re into “You’ve Got A Friend In Me.” I was getting more resources than they ever “It’s the Music that Brings Us in tears. Roxanne said it was one of the have had. We’re reconnecting. We’re Together” (Clay Hine) most amazing emotional experiences infusing people and resources that aren’t she’d ever shared with me. being limited by geographical boundaries Dick is learning MARTY: This important aspect of male or travel expense. We are definitely going “It’s the Music that Brings emotion doesn’t get told enough. It’s our to see in the future an expectation that Us Together” (Clay Hine) golden opportunity as an organization there’s going to be a lot more technol- to justify why we exist. ogy in weekly face-to-face rehearsal, Beach Boys Medley BRIAN: You’ve been attending a lot too. Every chapter will be accustomed I Love Rock ’n’ Roll Medley of online chapter meetings. Have you to walking into the hall and saying, “All Hallelujah seen that same experience that feels like right, set up the big screen over there— being down in the church basement? get the Internet hooked up—we’re having Marty is watching MARTY: Our older members have a coach in tonight.” It will feel automatic, Some Good News (YouTube) jumped over the technology hurdle like and nobody’s going to feel funny about you wouldn’t believe. They totally get it because we’ve already been living in it it, are feeling at home with it. They’re so long. It will feel absolutely natural and Marty is reading goofing around with their display commonplace to have virtual coaches all Tribes: We Need You to Lead Us, names, and the funny green screen over this Society every week when we Seth Godin backgrounds. Their personalities are are face-to-face. coming out, so that “church basement” DICK: The cost of providing it is going

barbershop.org | July/August 2020 | The Harmonizer | 5 STARTING PITCH A conversation with our President and CEO

WE’RE SEEING SOME CHAPTERS GETTING MORE RESOURCES THAN THEY EVER HAVE HAD. WE’RE Reader Feedback RECONNECTING. WE’RE INFUSING Let us know what’s on your mind: [email protected] PEOPLE AND RESOURCES THAT Even more great barbershop on Acaville radio AREN’T BEING LIMITED BY I was pleased to see Jeremy Gover’s wonderful “Barbershop 7th” on Acaville featured. GEOGRAPHICAL BOUNDARIES OR Another barbershop program on Acaville, “Shop Talk,” has been hosted by Ed Howard TRAVEL EXPENSE. and me for the past four years. It airs Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Eastern and again Sundays at 3 a.m. and 3 p.m. Eastern. Acaville plays a considerable amount of barbershop even outside these two barbershop programs.

Mark Holdeman to drop amazingly. It’s going to be easy Host, ShopTalk, Acaville Radio, Acaville.com for just your average chapter to join with three or four more chapters for a gig and “Poor taste” rules need more clarity start singing together. The training hurdle Regarding the amended Performance Category rules that allow for a specific is going to be so different because now, ev- scoring penalty for “poor taste” (May/June, page 11): I have seen contest eryone can have access to the same caliber performances in recent years that I found meaningful, respectful, and thought-provoking, of music instruction. It’s going to be very, but which others saw to be discomfiting or even offensive.Good art does not always make very transforming. us comfortable. For example, some themes related to tolerance, diversity, and respect for MARTY: In the webinar we hosted with heroes and martyrs may make a few listeners uncomfortable. That should be okay. The mere choral organization leaders, one medical professional said she had seen her neigh- existence of penalties of “poor taste,” even if they are never imposed, may have a chilling effect bors singing in a barbershop quartet—out- on the artistic expression of some themes. doors, at safe social distances. It looks like The new rules deserve more explanation and nuance regarding what might deserve a quartet singing might be the safest singing label of “poor taste.” Not all audiences are the same. It is not at all clear that there is universal we can do! understanding of what may “be offensive to today’s audience or society in general.” DICK: Our strategic plan calls for a re- dedication to the value of quartets. I don’t David M. Epstein think we could have possibly imagined Wilmington, Del. this would be the reason why! Look, I’m not omniscient. One thing I do know for Performance Category Specialist Mark Kettner: Transparency has improved, but the underlying sure: There’s no challenge we can face standard has not changed. Performances that contain elements of bad taste (lyrics, staging, or that the Barbershop Harmony Society gestures) are not common in barbershop performances. Performance judges assess whether a can’t overcome. performance impacts contemporary society’s standards of taste and sensitivity, being objective vs. MARTY: Just like every other part of our biased, and conferencing with their fellow judges to make the best determination. Our performers lives, things are going to be different, so are exploring new subject matter and performance styles that may highlight current events or everything we do to connect and cele- topics that are not reflective of past barbershop performances. While this subject matter may brate and succeed is to the benefit. Facing contain more mature themes, many will likely be determined to be in good taste. reality means we mourn the experiences that we can’t do, but then we move on. We still have to stand up and get dressed every morning and decide that we’re going to live a happy life. That’s the flexibility and the resolve that we are finding. 110 7th Ave N. Harmonizer@ Barbershop.org Facebook.com/ We’re always going to find new ways to Nashville, TN, 37203 barbershop.org barbershopharmonysociety be happy. n

DISTANCE BARBERSHOP Quartetting from a world apart

hey have thousands of Facebook tracks if we like something the later Tviews for each of eight songs (so parts added, and re-record as neces- far) in their repertoire. Global Ring bass sary until we get a sound we’re happy Adam LeFebvre discusses their formula. with. Our “Livin’ in the Sunlight, Lo- vin’ in the Moonlight” had about seven How did you find each other? On the versions before we were happy! “Barbershop Tags” Facebook group Michael Mylvaganam (T) – New Zealand in 2019, where Michael, Miguel, and What’s it like to know you were IT professional who sings with Manawatunes Wyatt were all prolific posters of tags distance quartetting before it was in Palmerston North, Vocal FX and MixedFX and videos in which they sang all four cool? We’re all a bunch of introverts, in Wellington, NZ. parts themselves. After enjoying virtual so social distancing is just par for the learning with my local quartet, I looked Wyatt Robinson (L) – Georgia course! for singers with similar skills and “audi- Tenor and bari in college pickup quartets. tioned” the other three. Music Education student and arranger What have you learned that could help established quartets that can’t Miguel Carvalho (Br) – Portugal Any plans to sing together in per- get together in person right now? Composer, arranger, and professional choir son? Anything is possible! Before the Most important: Nothing can get in singer. Bari in mixed quartet pandemic, Michael and I had planned Contratempo the way of making harmony if you put (2019 SABS silver medalist) to meet up at Pan-Pacific in New Zea- your minds to it. Nothing beats ringing land, and we fantasize about rocking Adam LeFebvre (Bs) – Hawaii chords with your buddies in person, the afterglows at an International Sings with father and brother in Sounds but the second best way to do it is from Convention some day! of Aloha Chorus; bass section leader. IT a distance. Not singing isn’t an option. professional, developed Flerb’s Robo Quartet I’m going to come out of lockdown a What’s the process for posting a for making virtual learning tracks better singer, with new skills and with performance? We choose songs via some great new friends. email, video chat, or group chat. We rehearse on our own through learn- to lay down the final tracks one part at Looking to start your own quartet? ing tracks and sheet music until we’re a time on the Acapella phone app. Usu- Make it official! Visitbarbershop.org/ ready to record. Then one of us makes ally bass first, then lead, then harmony quartets to explore all of our package an “interpretation track,” which we use parts. Sometimes we revise earlier offerings.

COVID-19 AMONG SOME DARK CLOUDS OF THE PANDEMIC, THERE ARE SILVER LININGS, TOO SAD NEWS. COVID-19 academic/professional achievements or COVID-19. He reports: “I caught the virus in has unfortunately claimed his extensive world travel. His passing was March and am just now [mid-May] recov- the lives of a few BHS widely covered by major media, including a ered enough to begin singing. It’s a brutal members. One was Brian lengthy Washington Post story that is linked at bug–don’t catch it! I strongly believe I caught Miller, 52, a member of barbershop.org/harmonizer. it from a gas pump handle. Two days later, the Alexandria Harmonizers symptoms began. Now that I am a COVID-19 who had been in excellent health before GREAT NEWS. Fortunately, survivor, I have donated plasma twice to first showing symptoms while traveling Kent Vanderkolk, lead help other people infected. I learned that my in Jordan. Internationally-famous for his of current 2020 Interna- plasma was used on a man in Indiana who is advocacy on behalf of disabled students, tional Seniors Champion now off the ventilator and going home. There he did not allow blindness to impede his Hearsay, recently overcame is always a reason ...”

8 | The Harmonizer | July/August 2020 | barbershop.org WHEN GIVEN LEMONS ...

Society resources to help your chapter or quartet Staff members have joined dozens of chapters’ virtual rehearsals to provide presentations, inspiration, and coaching. Hundreds of chapter leaders and quartetters have participated in weekly conference calls for info on finance, marketing, and virtual rehearsals. Chapter to chapter and quartet to quartet advice has also been crucial. Go to barbershop.org/harmonizer to link to and view captured video of: • Funding opportunities during COVID-19 SWEET IRONY: FROM THEIR KITCHEN CHAIRS, SOME • Virtual Chapter Visits GROUPS ARE ENJOYING THEIR BIGGEST AUDIENCES EVER • Chapter Q&A sessions with Nate Ogg • Quartet Q&A sessions with Danny Becker The singers recorded at various times and the audience viewed at various times–but it was an audience of close to 30,000! Sounds of Aloha is one of many choruses and quartets using How to use Zoom technology to record and stitch together group performances. From the chapter: “Like everyone Still haven’t joined or hosted a virtual else, we can’t gather and rehearse or perform, but we still wanted to make a difference in chapter meeting? Zoom has caught on people’s lives through music. Thus was born the Sounds of Aloha Virtual Chorus Project. We largely because even non-techies can had our guys record themselves singing a chorus song at home and we stitched it together into do it, and it requires only a desktop a video. We sent this out to our email list, plus to other family, friends and acquaintances with computer, laptop, tablet, or smart a message of peace, love, hope and encouragement for a return to better times. Its been well phone. Learn how to host or join Zoom received–even has over 29,000 YouTube views so far (non-monetized, so we’re okay)!” meetings at barbershop.org/zoom.

BHS Award nominees ASSOCIATION OF INTERNATIONAL CHAMPIONS The inaugural Barbershop Harmony Society Awards, initially part of the now-canceled 2020 International Con- AIC outreach continues vention, were to celebrate excellence Every champion singer knows the moment when barbershop grabbed his heart and service in the barbershop world. and never let go. For many of us, it was at a young age: growing up in a barbershop Link to the video series that recognizes family, or encountering barbershop in a school setting, or even on YouTube, or by these outstanding individuals and hearing an incredible quartet that sang straight into our souls and set us on a path groups at barbershop.org/harmonizer. we still walk today. The AIC has a long tradition of service to young singers. Our recent support of Virtual Barbershop Convention Next Generation singers has included sponsorship of festivals and free seating at BABS Live! The British Association of our shows, and many AIC quartets provide direct face- Barbershop Singers (BABS) staged its to-face instruction for harmony camps and workshops convention in late May with thousands annually. participating via interactive Livestream. Although the unique circumstances of 2020 have Hosts James Gower-Smith and Chris postponed these, but we remain committed to our Langworthy of Tagline featured perfor- charge. Soon, we’ll give districts and youth access to mances and interviews from a range of AIC quartets like never before. The AIC mainly focuses interesting Barbershoppers. on preserving the men’s singing experience, but all sing- babslive.co.uk. ing communities will be reached in partnership with Harmony Foundation and Sweet Adelines champions.

barbershop.org | July/August 2020 | The Harmonizer | 9 NOTEWORTHY The latest in the world of Barbershop.

ASK A CUSTOMER SERVICE REP

Society co-presents “Science, Data, Missing years and the Future of Singing” webinar In early May, the Society co-presented a webinar with the National Association of Teachers of of service? Singing, ACDA, Chorus America, and Performing Arts Medical Association regarding the near-term I HAVE SOME YEARS MISSING FROM MY MEMBER- future of singing, including extensive discussion SHIP RECORD. IS THERE A WAY FOR ME TO GET THOSE of safety issues particular to singers. Link to video, ADDED BACK? summary notes and a word from BHS Board Absolutely. If you were actually a dues paying Member Blair Brown at barbershop.org/harmonizer. member during those years, you can fill out a form to get them added back at no charge. Or, if you had a lapse in membership but would like to have a continuous tenure, you can retroactively pay Society dues for the missing years. Just contact [email protected] and we can give you details. – Caki Gray, Director of Membership

DISTANCE BARBERSHOP

Download free music/tracks for “It’s the Music that Brings Us Together” Download free music and learning tracks to “It’s the Music That Brings Us Together,” written by Clay Hine shortly after “shelter in place” for COVID-19 started. “My chorus had just started virtual rehearsals, and it was inspiring to see how many barbershoppers still wanted to find ways to rehearse, learn more, talk about music, and most importantly, stay connected to all of our barbershop friends,” he said. “We need opportunities to remember why barbershop is so important in our lives. Sharing a song or a great tag with friends is one thing that made us all go nuts for barbershop in the first place.” Get the free music, along with COVID-19 MEDIA COVERAGE CLEVERLY CAPTURES free learning tracks by Tony De Rosa and Michaela Johnston, at shop.barbershop.org. WHY BARBERSHOPPERS KEEP ON MEETING

hat does a “service chicken” have to do with barbershop har- Wmony? It’s still not entirely clear even after viewing the WSMV clip, but this segment featuring B-List quartet and bass Nate Usher’s fowl friend addresses how interesting people are dealing with physical isolation. The quartet members belong to Music City Chorus, which was covered in another segment from Nashville station WTVF.

WATCH ONLINE Link to this news story as well as links to virtual choirs, and COVID-19 resources at barbershop.org/harmonizer.

10 | The Harmonizer | July/August 2020 | barbershop.org EXTREME QUARTETTING Harmony Brigade’s top ambassadors The most coveted award in Extreme Quartetting isn’t winning the quartet contest

f you haven’t experienced a Har- I mony Brigade first hand, Extreme Quartetting is getting together with 80 to 120 other singers who have honed their performance of 10-12 championship-level arrangements. You can sing in unlimited combina- tions with random quartets, know- ing that every singer knows their music cold and can sing it well. To make things more interesting, you are randomly assigned to a quartet, and with about an hour’s practice you take the stage in a judged quartet contest. While placing in the quartet contest is great, it’s even better that there’s so much time to randomly switch quartet partners, potentially singing with every other person in attendance. So, what is the award that humbles even the most accom- plished Brigade singer? (Top) William and Bernie Reen, who are featured in this issue’s cover story, were voted with top EXTREME QUARTETTING AMBASSADOR: honors at last fall’s Indiana Harmony Brigade, SINGERS YOU MOST LOVED TO SING WITH which took place a few weeks after their interviews. In 2019, attendees at all 11 Brigades (Bottom): Brigade members show up as strangers were asked to pick one person that with a 12-song repertoire memorized and leave as was extremely well prepared, the friends–and sometimes, as formal quartets! most fun to sing with, and true to the Extreme Quartetting spirit. The winners were: • North Carolina – Kevin Jones • European – Faye Hall • United Kingdom – Tom Adams • New England – Simon Landless • Northern Pines – Joe Gurreri • Indiana – Bernie and William Reen • Lone Star – Gary Holmes We congratulate these giants of • Mixed Brigade of New England – Extreme Quartetting. You make each Faye Hall brigade a special experience for all • Great Lakes – Joe Gurreri its participants! n • Atlantic – Tamara Hitchcock –Bill Van Emburg • High Sierra – Mark Andromidas harmonybrigade.org

barbershop.org | July/August 2020 | The Harmonizer | 11 TIP SHEET Kevin Keller: coach, arranger, Music judge [email protected]

The “voices” in your world: when should you listen ... or not?

It’s natural that we aim to please those who seem to know a lot or have our best interests at heart. But there’s an art to discerning which voices and which suggestions will best help move you and your group forward.

often joke with quartets that the I best you ever sound is when you first sing together, and two years after you break up! Anyone who has been in more than one quartet knows the truth behind this joke. Voices: They come from everywhere. Everywhere we go and sing, there are voices. As human beings, we want to do our best; we aim to please and make every correction those voices ask of us. Unchecked, this can lead to frustration. Quartets often disband; singers often leave choruses.

WHO ARE THESE VOICES? They are judges, coaches, teachers, directors, family members, friends, well-intentioned peers, and audience members. Just about everybody who distract us. It’s that distinction that Author Kevin Keller, a long-time coach and speaks to us is a voice that we hear, you must protect yourself against and HU faculty member, coaches the Alexandria process, and then decide whether or be vigilant. Harmonizers in the chorus track at Harmony not to act upon. Does this sound familiar? “We did University 2017. With my opening joke, why is it everything our coaches asked of us.” true? Because there are no voices. We “This coach said we should do this sing for the pure joy of singing. No and now you’re saying we should do one is there to critique our efforts. just the opposite.” “We’re struggling Without the pressure, we sing freely with the interp that our coach gave and joyfully. And it is glorious. Glori- us.” “The judges said … ” “I was told I ous in our first effort that we decide “THERE ARE A LOT OF was too loud.” Probably at some point to sing together. After we part ways VOICES WHO ARE HIGHLY you have uttered some of these words. and somehow reconnect two years Your job is to filter all of the voices, later, we sing gloriously! “Why did INSIGHTFUL AT ALL LEVELS. figure out which voices resonate with we ever break up?!” BUT YOU MUST EVALUATE you, which voices transform you as a Do we need voices? Of course! singer and performer, and follow that Voices can help us achieve higher lev- EACH AND DECIDE WHETHER path. To all other voices, say “Thank els of performance but they can also OR NOT TO LISTEN.” you,” while you keep on the path! LORIN MAY LORIN MAY

12 | The Harmonizer | July/August 2020 | barbershop.org 4. Ultimately, does this voice sup- “VOICES ARE JUDGES, COACHES, port you and/or your ensemble KEVIN’S BEST COACHING ADVICE EVER in your journeys? If it takes a It was to a very young Vocal Spectrum TEACHERS, DIRECTORS, FAMILY side trip on your journey, just say (2006 champion) at the start of their MEMBERS, FRIENDS, WELL- “Thanks!” journey almost 20 years ago. After they Voices are not bad people. In fact, sang, I said, “Unless their name is Jim INTENTIONED PEERS, AND they are just the opposite. They are Henry, don’t let a soul touch your voic- AUDIENCE MEMBERS.” wonderful people who truly love you es.” On paper you would never combine and want you to be successful. They those voices, but I knew Jim would want to give of themselves on your carefully guide them, honoring who journey. they were as individual singers rather than forcing them to be something they HOW DO YOU DO THIS? EVEN AMONG TOP COACHES AND JUDGES, weren’t or capable of being. Fortunately, Ask yourself a set of simple questions: WATCH WHICH VOICES YOU ACQUIRE they listened to me! 1. Does this change my life as a per- Judges see you in the absolute worst former? Do I hear, see, and/or feel situation for evaluating who you re- a significant positive difference? ally are. It is a pressure-packed situ- Bottom line: Are you noticeably ation. One-and-done pressure can of- better now than one hour ago? If ten interfere with your best you. You not, say “Thank you.” are at the mercy of the current state 2. Does the input maximize my of the voices. Judges don’t know your contribution to the ensemble or journey. They don’t realize what it limit it? If it limits it, say “Thank sounded like on Tuesday (either bet- you.” Ensembles benefit the most ter or worse). All they know is what by bringing out the best in all of us, is in front of them. A great judge will not putting a lid on it. Just because profile and ask you questions about one singer is better than the rest your journey so they can provide right now doesn’t mean that the the best insight. You might find that rest aren’t capable of meeting that annoying, but they have your best in- resonate with your group, have them higher potential in a short time. terests at heart to provide what you periodically join you on your journey. Often, unlocking one voice enables really need. And if you don’t receive They will reinforce the positive steps others to follow. Build the indi- what you need for your journey, you are taking and steadily unlock vidual; the ensemble follows. We smile and say “Thanks!” more potential. It’s also fine to seek often react to voices telling us we Quartets and choruses often come out new voices. New voices may be are off when we haven’t finished to schools to get coached. Often, the able to unlock things that other voic- that skill journey yet or our quartet school recruits top-flight coaching, es have not been able to achieve, us- mates haven’t finished their skill and the lion’s share of these coaching the filter of the questions above. journey. es understand the idea of journey. Can you have too many voices? Yes, 3. Does the input come from a natu- They are able to unlock things inside but there’s no single answer for ral place of serving the music and you to help you reach higher levels. everyone. If you are confused, then audience? Does it feel organic and If that’s the case, rejoice and enjoy. likely you have too many. If you are natural? Or do you have to remem- If after their time you find yourself stuck, then start finding new voices. ber every detail, and each week even more confused or unchanged, Does that mean that a voice has to stumble again over details that smile and say “Thank you.” be a top-flight coach and others can’t don’t make sense? If it isn’t natural Everyone has different approaches help? Absolutely, positively NO! Real and organic in serving the music, to acquiring voices. There is no one and profound insight can come from then just say “Thank you.” strategy. But, as you find voices that anywhere. There are a lot of voices who are highly insightful at all levels, but you must evaluate each voice as HARMONY UNIVERSITY ONLINE This year, anyone can experience Harmony University it comes along and decide for your throughout the month of July at about 1/4 the total cost. Log on! barbershop.org/hu group whether to listen or whether to just say “Thank you!” n LORIN MAY LORIN MAY

barbershop.org | July/August 2020 | The Harmonizer | 13 SPOTLIGHT Doug Miller, with Marilynn Tiede [email protected]

77 years, 21 members, same routine–and big laughs With deadpan faces too bleak for even a funeral, in 5,000+ performances the lugubrious foursome wearing bowler hats and yellow shoes never fails to earn serious laughs

ERIOUSLY FUNNY “SBARBERSHOP” This motto was suggested by lead Dan Tiede of The Gay Nineties barbershop quartet for publicity brochures. That pretty much describes what the quartet is all about. The group, wearing its distinctive black mourning coats, black derby hats and bright yellow shoes, specializes in a hilarious deadpan delivery familiar to barbershop fans all over the Society.

GLOWERING LAUGHS SINCE 1943 In 1943, four men—a high school principal, two power company employees, and a chemistry teacher from Montevideo, Minn.—decided to form a quartet to entertain a Kiwanis Since that time, the quartet has The 1963 version of the quartet: Bob Larson (T), Club Ladies Night and a retirement appeared in more than 5,000 shows Dick Larson (L), Herman Koch (Br), Paul Fleming party. Thus, the Gay ’90s Barbershop in 38 states, five Canadian provinces, (Bs). Bob and Dick were still with the quartet in its Quartet was born. and during the 1960s joined two USO 1969 & 1971 Pacific USO Tours. Because they were not the best tours in Southeast Asia. The quartet singers, they decided to add a little has also entertained the audience at a vaudeville to the act. They were re- Kiwanis Club International Conven- an old-fashioned 170-year old rocking ceived so well that they were invited tion, a Shriners International Conven- melodion, played by Dr. Jim Tiede to participate in a barbershop quartet tion and a Minnesota congressional (bari), which adds variety to the act. contest which was part of the Minne- gathering in Washington, D.C. The quartet’s show has continued apolis Aquatennial celebration. They The group has been registered since to be virtually the same over the won two of the four awards for their 1950, making it likely the longest serv- years: Deadpan singing with some originality, comedy, and creativity. ing continuously registered quartet in vaudeville thrown in. The opener is the Barbershop Harmony Society. “When You’re Smiling,” which they At some point, the group acquired never do. While singing “Goodbye My

“THEIR PRESENTATION WAS BASIC QUARTET PACKAGE For quartets that want access to resources but don’t HILARIOUS AND I LAUGHED yet want to compete. The $48 annual fee provides: Exclusive rights to your quartet EVERY TIME EVEN THOUGH I name, visibility to public searches on barbershop.org, and access to guidebooks, HAD SEEN IT BEFORE!” newsletters, marketing materials, quartet kit, and more. barbershop.org/quartets.

14 | The Harmonizer | July/August 2020 | barbershop.org Coney Island Baby,” a handkerchief gets passed through the quartet and back again with some sight gags in between. During one performance, Dr. Jim Tiede, baritone, got so amused at the antics of former tenor Gary Erick- son, he broke out in uncontrollable laughter. He then had to buy a big steak dinner for the rest of the guys to make amends. That tradition has been in place since 1943 and has con- (Above) In 1943, clockwise from left: Smiley tinued on. Borsgard, Arnie Nesheim, Lenn Brown, Cec The ’90s sing songs that most peo- Rodeberg. (Right) The 2011 incarnation, its LOL Hall ple have never heard such as “Never of Fame year, clockwise from left: Al Reesnes (L), Throw a Lighted Lamp at Mother” Gary Erickson (T), Les Bockes (Bs), Dr. Jim Tiede (Br). and “When It’s Lamp Lighting Time in the Valley” with the song title being the only words in the song. It’s done in different ways, i.e., four parts, thrilled when he was asked to try on the same show with the ’90s,” he solo, narrative and in a minor key. to fill the yellow shoes of legendary said. “After a few shows, I knew what Gary Erickson. “While I will never was coming next and they didn’t dis- THE WIN THAT RUINED A LOSING STREAK be able to give people what Gary gave appoint me. Their presentation was It has been said that the “Gay ’90s them, I am excited to bring a little of hilarious, and I laughed every time, have never won a contest but never my own silliness into this character even though I had seen it before. I lost a show.” That changed, howev- as the quartet goes forward in the am thrilled to sing with such a fun er, in 1995 when they were crowned future. What an honor and privilege group of guys.” Land O’ Lakes District Seniors Quar- to be given the opportunity to sing Dr. Dan Tiede recalls: “I have very tet Champion. In October 2011, the together in the same quartet with my fond memories of watching the Gay quartet was inducted into the Land O’ dad and brother and Doug.” ’90s antics in the shows but especial- Lakes District Hall of Fame. Bass Doug Miller is a multi-inter- ly at the afterglows. I was extremely Jim Tiede recalls a special time in national quartet medalist, chorus honored that they invited me to join 1993 when nine former and current director and judge emeritus. He was their ranks as member #19! My very quartet members of the ’90s quartet also Land O’ Lakes District Presi- first real gig with the Gay ’90s was at gathered for a 50-year anniversary dent in 2009 and 2010. Quartets in an LOL District Convention afterglow celebration. Dick Larson, Bill Johnson, which he sang did a lot of shows in the in the fall of 2011 after the Great Gary Erickson, Les Bockes, Dick John- the Upper Midwest, many with the Northern Union had placed second son, Dick Wing, Paul Fleming, Herman Gay ’90s. “It was always a treat to be at the International Competition in Koch and Jim were all in attendance Kansas City. The GNU preceded us swapping stories of good times with the and blew the roof off of the place with quartet and busting a chord. their finale. Of course, we followed Rev. Mark Tiede (tenor) recalls them. As they processed off the stage, seeing the quartet perform for the Judd Orff shook my hand and said, first time when he was six years ‘Good luck, kid!’ My stomach dropped old. He laughed so hard at the crazy to the floor. Never follow kids, animals, guys and a simple look that Gary or the GNU!” Erickson made that his sides hurt. The current foursome is very aware When his dad was invited to join the of the legacy left by the founding group, Mark was excited for him and members and all those who followed couldn’t believe it when brother Dan them. “We will carry on the tradition became the next lead, following the The current lineup: Mark Tiede (T), Daniel of presenting SERIOUSLY FUNNY retirement of Al Reesnes. He was Tiede (L), Doug Miller (Bs), James Tiede (Br) BARBERSHOP.” n

barbershop.org | July/August 2020 | The Harmonizer | 15 Barbershop’s best week of the year month The on-campus experience is impossible in 2020, but Virtual Harmony University is equipped and priced to educate an even bigger audience throughout this July

ttendees have long called Fortunately, the same top-level After a year of delivering HU Online Harmony University the best instructors will continue to deliver courses already, Donny said the team A week of the year for Barber- the kind of curriculum and content can promise online curriculum that’s shoppers. And while the cancellation that’s received rave reviews for on par with the depth and quality of of the in-person experience has been decades. Many who couldn’t have the in-person instruction. heartbreaking, the show will go attended a typical Harmony Univer- “This is NOT going to be a Zoom call on—and in many ways, stronger than sity experience will finally have the where you sit muted and wait for your ever. opportunity. turn,” he said. “We have specifically “July could end up being a banner “With the savings for our stu- limited class sizes with world-class year for Harmony U,” said BHS Direc- dents on the expenses of travel, food, teachers, just like HU-Belmont.” tor of Education Donny Rose. “This housing, faculty reimbursement—and gives us a rare opportunity to double yes, ice cream—we can now make this WHO SHOULD ATTEND? down with our online learning plat- education far more accessible to the With the lower cost and higher-ac- form and provide education to anyone, world, virtually,” Donny said. cess, July’s Harmony University anywhere, at any time, at a cost point experience is geared for the largest that is incredibly reasonable.” DIFFERENT FORMAT, SAME possible audience. Donny particu- Admittedly, some great elements HIGH-LEVEL INSTRUCTION larly hopes that chapter leaders take of HU Belmont cannot be part of an What would normally be a week advantage. online experience, which is strictly of intense learning will instead be “I would send my entire music team BYOIC (Bring Your Own Ice Cream). spread out over the entire month— to this school,” he said. “It’s slam dunk Also missing will be the nonstop attendees can fill up all month great education that will pay the chap- energy that comes with marinating in without even having to take off work. ter back tenfold—for a quarter of the the best instruction all day, every day Attendees that participate in live cost of attending in person.” n for a full week. The coaching sessions, events will be able to interact with performance opportunities, and tag- their instructors just as they would ging late into the night will also have in person. However, delayed viewing to wait for a different year. will be available as well.

16 | The Harmonizer | July/August 2020 | barbershop.org ”

THIS IS NOT JUST ANOTHER Virtual HU ZOOM CALL. THESE ARE SPECIFICALLY- LIMITED CLASS SIZES WITH WORLD-CLASS TEACHERS AND in July CORE CLASSES THAT BUILD The big news in online learning is that your HU organizers FROM ONE DAY TO THE NEXT. have put together a very exciting schedule of events for Virtual Harmony University. You will pick between two learning experiences! Registration opened June 1 All ” packages Full Registration ($249) include: FULL REGISTRATION FOR ALL FOUR WEEKS INCLUDES: • Everyone in Harmony Virtual Choir • Two weeks of Harmony College • LIVE, interactive instruction with Deke Sharon plus quartets After seminars: Performance Seminar and with world-class faculty Hours (BHS), GQ (BHS, SA), and Hot Mechanics of Artistic Singing Seminar. • The Learning Management Pursuit (BHS, HI, SA)! Your tuition Seminars meet six times each, two system has opportunities for includes two new SATB barbershop hours each session. handouts, instructor feedback, arrangements, learning tracks, section- • One month of Electives with over 90 and live or post-class discussion. als, Q & A with arrangers, quartets and live classes available. Electives meet This is more than a Zoom call! special guests. You will also be featured one time for 50 minutes. • All Virtual HU content you in our two virtual choir videos released • Five General Session presentations purchase will be available month in August. from barbershop legends representing on-demand through the end • Two weeks of a Core Seminar of your barbershop decades at HU. of August, giving you plenty of choice (Arrangers, Directors, Lead- • CEUs or Graduate credits for an extra time to watch (and re-watch) any ership, or Music Educators). You can fee. classes you missed! purchase additional Core Seminars at a • Full access to all HU Online pre-record- • Access to HU Online for the discounted rate. ed video content for the month of July entire month of July

À La Carte (Starts at $59) Customize your Harmony University experience! Bundle one or more of the à la carte options below - the choice is yours! Everyone in Harmony Core Seminars General Sessions + $59 Choir Experience $59* WEEK 2 | JULY 13 - 18 $99 Elective Classes WEEK 1 | JULY 6 - 10 WEEK 3 | JULY 20 - 25 WEEKS 1 - 4: JULY 6 - AUG 1 *$59 per seminar WHAT’S INCLUDED? WHAT’S INCLUDED? WHAT’S INCLUDED? • Everyone in Harmony Chorus • Choose one seminar: Arrangers, Directors, • Over 90 LIVE 50-minute Electives experience with Deke Sharon, Leadership, Mechanics of Artistic Singing, available! After Hours, GQ, and Hot Performance, or Music Educators. • Week One - Three: 2 Electives Pursuit • Each seminar includes six classes over available each evening • Two new barbershop arrange- two weeks, meeting live every other day • Week Four: 12-16 Electives ments, just for the EIH chorus • Arrangers, Music Educators, and available each evening • Two Tony De Rosa and Michaela Performance seminars meet Mon/Wed/ • Five General Session presentations Johnston learning tracks Fri and stories from barbershop • LIVE nightly rehearsals with • Directors, Mechanics of Artistic Sing- legends sectionals ing, and Leadership seminar meet Tues/ • Access to HU Online library of • Special surprise guests Thurs/Sat classes • Access to HU Online • Access to HU Online library of classes library of classes • PRO TIP: You can purchase multiple seminars at a discounted rate! barbershop.org | July/August 2020 | The Harmonizer | 17 A lifetime of musical therapy

18 | The Harmonizer | July/August 2020 | barbershop.org Coping with tragedy How four-part harmony and barbershop culture helped five young members deal with the loss of their father

he smiles were as big as the applause was loud. May of T 2018 marked the end of the busiest and most successful six months ever for the Reen Family Singers, Indiana’s 11-voice answer to the Von Trapps and the Osmonds. Nearly every weekend had been spent performing on a church stage or a BHS chapter show. Like the Osmond Brothers, the Reen family is known for its multi-instrument mastery, deep faith, and for four-part harmonizing from an early age. “They sounded like chipmunks,” laughed Sophie Reen about her young boys with their father, Steve, when The Reen family in November 2017 (Top): Dominic, guitars, and all 11 voices. they first started quartetting in 2009. Stephen II, Sophie, Steve, Bernie, Virginia. Then in June 2018, 52-year-old Steve had celebrated Bernie’s birth Bottom: William, Lucy, Hugh, Gabby, John Steve went to the doctor with stom- in 2001 as confirmation that he could ach pains. The prognosis couldn’t now have the barbershop quartet he’d have been worse: “Dr. Reen,” the dreamed of since high school. hour away in Cincinnati, and four- meticulously health-conscious, In 2009, Steve, Stephen II, part harmony became embedded in nationally famous piano and music Dominic, and Bernie joined the family life. Each weekly rehearsal teacher, had Stage 4 colon cancer Chordlighters Chorus, who sparked was a coveted father and sons activity, that had spread to his liver. Doctors their love for the barbershop chorus and the chorus put the boys’ strong said there was little hope he would experience. The next year, they joined voices and fresh faces to good use. recover. Steve began what little treat- the Southern Gateway Chorus an John and William later joined them ment was available while assuring his on the risers, and oldest daughter, family that the diagnosis was “only a “They sounded like chipmunks,” Virginia, formed Meet Virginia with detour.” They were going to beat this. her brothers to win the 2017 JAD laughed Sophie Reen about mixed quartet contest. The original her young boys with their quartet act had now expanded into a Participants were interviewed in October 2019 for father, Stephen, when they first popular family band involving men’s an article originally scheduled to appear in the started quartetting in 2009. and mixed quartetting, piano, strings, Nov/Dec 2019 issue.

barbershop.org | July/August 2020 | The Harmonizer | 19 and six sons. He died the following A sense of normal day. Like the chorus had done for reduces anxiety another departed chapter member a week earlier, Southern Gateway “We never believed the doctor,” said provided music and other support at Bernie, now 19. “Dad was such a funeral events. A pillar of his many healthy guy, we couldn’t comprehend communities, Steve’s viewing was it.” attended by more than 2,500. Their trip to the International Convention in Orlando the next month? Still on. All five boys had The Reen Brothers Quartet in Nashville 2016: vital roles with Southern Gateway, Dominic (Br), Stephen II (Bs), Bernie (L), John (T). harmony can and frankly, the entire Reen family Dominic and Bernie struggled during the performance needed this. because their voices had both just started to change. help us cope “Steve had prepared his boys so much,” said chorus member Rock The Reen family’s journey through Adams. “They were not going to let awesome to have our dad competing its own worst-case scenario may him die.” But as he watched Steve with us. It was amazing he was even offer hope to others who are experi- struggle to merely climb stairs in Or- able to stand.” encing the trials of life. Their deep lando, Rock saw on his friend’s face The boys remained active in chap- connections to barbershop singing the deep faith behind his family’s ter life as Steve’s health continued to and culture have been key to their optimistic “I Kicked Cancer” t-shirts, spiral downward. The chorus’s top sustained happiness and recovery. but also the recognition that this may 10 performance in Orlando turned “Barbershop harmony is the most be his last contest. The boys’ hope- out to be his last time on any stage. joyful hobby in their lives—it remains ful outlook notwithstanding, they As community members created the constant thing they will always seemed to recognize the possibility GoFundMe campaigns for the Reens, love to do together,” Sophie declared. as well. Southern Gateway members spread “It is music therapy. You ring a chord “Orlando was not a great time for the word to the barbershop world. and everybody’s happy.” us, but we had hope until the last Between Barbershoppers and the For many of us, barbershopping is days,” Bernie recalls. “It was still Reens’ other communities, Steve’s clearly about more than the music. hospital room and inbox overflowed Consider how singing and fellowship with cards, messages, and calls. have helped the Reens emerge from “Orlando was not a great time Only weeks into September did the tragedy, and how it can improve both for us, but we had hope until family finally accept Steve’s fate. “He your present and future. the last days,” Bernie recalls. was never sad about it,” said Bernie. “He thought he was so lucky to have (Left): Four out of the five Reen brothers who sang in “It was still awesome to have those three months with us.” On the Orlando with Steve (at top left) in their final appearance our dad competing with us. It night of September 23, Steve shared together. (Right): Director Jeff Legters with William and was amazing he was even able expressions of love and tearful good- John at the International Chorus Contest in 2019, the to stand.” byes with his wife, three daughters, boys’ first without their father. LORIN MAY LORIN MAY, CINDY WAGNER

20 | The Harmonizer | July/August 2020 | barbershop.org It’s not just music, it’s the culture

“We live in a musically passive society,” Sophie observed. “Many people are music consumers, not music (Top left): The original Reen quartet rides the light rail at the 2012 International Convention in Portland. (Above): makers. Active engagement in mu- The Reen Family Singers on a 2017 show with the Alexandria Harmonizers. Steve was off-frame playing the piano. sic-making can change our world for the better.” The Reens already had a “It’s an amazing feeling to just repertoire. The act of learning new life filled with music before connect- have a group of guys you can count repertoire and revisiting older songs ing with the Barbershop Harmony on for literally anything,” he said. helps keep important memories, Society. They joined largely for the friendships, and social habits front barbershop culture. of mind. “When Steve and I were music When circumstances became less students in college, it was rarely an Music keeps than ideal, the brothers found com- encouraging environment,” she con- fort in two of the quickest and most tinued. “Southern Gateway is quite a memories alive powerful paths to happiness: keep remarkable chorus. They are very sup- singing, and stay connected to their portive of each other. They constantly Many of us know stories about how musical family. lift their brothers up to reach the high- familiar songs have stirred memories “A year later, I kind of forget the est goals. They are always encouraging and emotions in Alzheimer’s pa- little things my dad did, which makes the kids and are very caring.” tients. The effect can be just as pow- me sad,” Bernie said last year. “But The Society provides a social and erful on healthy minds. In his first when I sing a song that I remember artistic environment like no other. International Chorus performance him singing, I remember every little A large percentage of us say that we without his father in 2019, William, thing he did with the song. It’s like came for the music but stayed for the then 12, found the experience unex- singing with him again.” fellowship. This point was driven pectedly familiar and comforting. “I home hard for Bernie after his father felt like he was still there watching died and then his older brothers went us,” he said. “It was like he was sing- away to school. When Dad and his ing with me on the risers.” brothers couldn’t be there, his bar- Barbershoppers participating in bershop fathers and brothers could. chapter meetings or quartet rehearsals are doing more than keeping their “I felt like he was still there voices in shape and honing future watching us. I felt like he Steve Reen held Bachelors and Masters degrees in piano was singing with me on the performance and a Ph.D. in Music. He had been named risers.” one of the top five group piano teachers in the country. LORIN MAY LORIN MAY, CINDY WAGNER

barbershop.org | July/August 2020 | The Harmonizer | 21 Growth goes far beyond the music

Sophie and Southern Gateway members believe barbershopping has helped the boys’ social maturity soar compared to their peers. “They’ve learned how to handle themselves in peer-level relationships with men of all different ages,” she said, “and in an encouraging environment where they are working hard in a team effort.” In August of 2018, the five oldest Reen boys continued to find comfort in singing with their Southern Gateway Advanced social maturity has long Chorus family, even while their father’s health continued to spiral downward. been recognized among barbershop youth, who must learn to pull their weight among a much older peer sing barbershop the rest of our lives.” their voices change in the interven- group. William, in talking about the Jobs come and go—and sadly, fami- ing weeks. The quartet’s once-nat- men of the Southern Gateway Cho- ly members can, too—but singing and ural blend vanished as the two rus, says of chapter members some- fellowship can remain a constant. struggled with a repertoire that was thing that singers of all ages could The Reen siblings find in the Soci- suddenly too high for their unstable say of their fellow Barbershoppers: ety a place to take risks and pursue voices. They eked out a disappointing “They’re my role models.” long-term goals in a safe space where 25th-place finish. Others have noted the effect bar- failure won’t feel like the end of the It was still only a bump in the road bershop culture has no matter your world. for Bernie. “This is something I’ve age or how long you’ve been involved For example, the International been doing since I was eight and I’ll in barbershop. Individual growth— Youth Contest of 2016 was intended do it for the rest of my life,” he said. not just in craft but social, emotional, to be The Reen Brothers quartet’s “I hope someday I’ll win a gold. Even intellectual, and leadership develop- big coming out party to the bar- though we’re trying to put our lives ment—is perhaps the most underrat- bershop world. If only the contest together right now, there’s no way ed by-product of barbershop culture. had come a few months earlier. The I’ll ever stop.” Brothers’ 76% spring qualifying score had them in youth medal contention Sophie Reen’s Masters degree in Cello Performance ahead of the contest in Nashville, but keeps her in demand as a music teacher, including for The barbershop then both Dominic and Bernie saw most of her children. community is a safe space

“There are not many things where you can say, ‘I’ll stick with it forev- er,’” said Bernie. “It means the world to us that the whole family plans to

“Jobs come and go–and sadly, family members can, too–but singing and fellowship can remain a constant.” SOUTHERN GATEWAY CHORUS; MARCIA POTTS

22 | The Harmonizer | July/August 2020 | barbershop.org The Angel Fund: “More of the helping others keep singing While the emotional support members maintain their barber- same” aids healing of fatherly figures in Southern shop life. In Southern Gateway, Gateway was critical, the Reen only Rock knows the names of “They’re still doing what Steve had boys needed practical help as those who have either contrib- started with them,” said Sophie. “Obvi- well. Chapter member Al Geis uted or received assistance. The ously, his passing was a huge loss. But provided weekly transporta- assistance has been a godsend the singing part of their lives isn’t a huge tion, and the chapter’s “Angel for those who needed music in difference—it’s just more of the same, Fund” helped Bernie, John, and their lives more than ever during and that’s a big positive.” William travel to Salt Lake City difficult times. Indeed, someday many of our own to perform at the 2019 Interna- “It’s not for someone to use current struggles will be in the rearview tional Chorus Contest. over and over,” he said, “but we mirror, but singing and fellowship can “They never asked for one can help you through a tight lift our spirits while personal challenges thing,” said chapter member spot.” One can hope that pan- are ongoing. The music, the ringing, and Rock Adams. “But we had the demic-related financial disrup- the relationships will likely mean even sense to know that they needed tions are short-term, but the more to us when we emerge on the other help.” generosity of BHS members over side. n Many BHS chapters have an decades has already benefited “Angel Fund” to help struggling countless lives. Lorin May is editor of The Harmonizer [email protected] SOUTHERN GATEWAY CHORUS; MARCIA POTTS

barbershop.org | July/August 2020 | The Harmonizer | 23 Legacy Quartet Championship Your chance to honor 20 of the best quartets that never won The best quartets that never won

ur International Quartet considerable cost of digitizing these The top 25 quartets were chosen O Contest history is filled with newly-available performances. by a panel of judges and barbershop quartets that performed at a cham- Only ticket holders may vote in ei- historians headed by Contest & pionship level but never came away ther round, helping determine the “fi- Judging Chairman Steve Armstrong. with gold. The Legacy Quartet nalists” and then the “medalists” and The number featured in the contest Championship is a chance to see 20 “champion” (the honorific titles are will be reduced to 20 based primar- of the best never-to-win quartets yet to be decided) in this battle of the ily on contest video availability, but online in a two-round contest hosted best quartets that never won. Ticket all 25 will be recognized here. They on Aug. 22 and Aug. 29. holders will also be able to interact in are listed alphabetically, including This championship also supports exclusive online chat rooms with an the year of the quartet’s best contest the BHS Archives Project, a daunt- all-star panel of experts in real time. finish. “Contest sets” will primarily be ing challenge to digitize thousands The performances—many unseen pulled from the listed year. of hours of contest videos currently since they were performed live in Watch for complete details in aging in our archives. Donations from contest—will remain on YouTube in LiveWire and other Society commu- all 17 districts have helped cover the perpetuity. nications. LORIN MAY

Semifinals: August 22 • Finals: August 29

24 | The Harmonizer | July/August 2020 | barbershop.org Quartet member names listed as tenor, lead, bari, bass regardless of standing order

139th Street B&O Connection (1979) Quartet (1979) George Wagner, Diz Disney, Doug Anderson, Larry Wright, Ted Tarr, Barry Brown Pete Neushel, Jim Kline Representing the Mid-Atlantic A record 17 times in the Top 10 District, the candle burned and ever a crowd favorite for brightly but not long enough their young, brash, hip style and for this quartet. Lead Bob “Diz” songs. 139th went through four leads. The FWD quartet earned two sil- Disney was the focal point of their unique style and sound. He also wrote vers among their seven medals before retiring in 1996. 139th was the first and arranged for the quartet. They placed 7th at their first International BHS quartet to sing in Russia and is in the BHS Hall of Fame as primary competition in 1978. In 1979, they jumped to 3rd place, behind only creators of the Collegiate Quartet Contest. Grandma’s Boys and the Boston Common. Bank Street (1989) BSQ (2000) Tony Sparks, Richard Giese, Robert Seay V, Kevin King, Toby Balsley, Farris Collins Rick Taylor, Alan Mazzoni With a full-bodied sound After placing sixth in their first anchored by the smooth, rich International Competition, the bass voice of Farris Collins, 1995 Mid-Atlantic District cham- Bank Street was a fixture in 16 pion went on to earn medals consecutive international competitions from 1985 to 2000. Along the way, in five straight contests, placing as high as third in 1998 and 2000. They this Albuquerque, NM quartet earned six medals, including a 2nd-place performed songs and arrangements that showed off their ability to ring finish in 1989. chords at a high level. Lead Kevin King is the son of Fred King, baritone of the 1970 champions, the Oriole Four.

Center Stage (1984) Clef Dwellers (1950) Wendell Pryor, Dennis Gore, Dick Wisehart, Duncan Han- Glenn Van Tassell, Lee Hanson nah, Bill Johnston, Hal Bauer From the Pioneer District, this The “old” old-timers of the quartet formed in 1980 and mid-40s to early ‘50s swear won the district championship they shoulda had gold. The that same year. Their first Detroit quartet was known for International contest appearance was in 1981, held in their home state its big sound, on-stage persona, lead Dunc Hanna providing customized of Michigan. They placed 4th to the delight of their home crowd! For the arrangements, and always winning the crowd. One contemporary next three years in a row they would win silver medals. called the C-Dwellers “the most copied quartet in Society history.” In five trips into the top 10, they earned four medals, including two silvers.

Easternaires (1970) Far Westerners (1972) Ed Ryan, Dan Heyburn, Doug Anderson, Jim Meehan, Dave Mittelstadt, Bob Bohn Earl Moon, Jay Wright With International appearances In the ‘60s and ‘70s, the joke spanning three decades, the was they had three tenors and Easternaires garnered nine a guy who sang real high. The top-10 finishes and three medals, entertaining Far Westerners em- placing as high as 4th. They appeared in popular TV shows and replaced the bodied that bright, rich sound in eight top 10 finishes and three bronze Buffalo Bills in The Music Man on Broadway. Barbershoppers still revel in Bob medals. They lived in the rhythm arrangements of bari/BHS icon Earl Bohn’s innovative arrangements. They are 2018 BHS Hall of Fame inductees. Moon and bass Jay Wright, who had a 1964 gold with the Sidewinders.

barbershop.org/legacychampionship

barbershop.org | July/August 2020 | The Harmonizer | 25 Four Chorders (1953) Ken Mills, Wils Starling, Art Patterson, Ron Starling About a decade before the Nighthawks, that same London, Ontario Chapter was home to this four-time medalist quartet. The Four Chorders got off to a slow start in 1953, and despite a spectacu- lar finals round they came up just short with the silver. They were known for the fine arrangements written by baritone Art Patterson and their flawless execution of bell chords, which he frequently featured.

Four Rascals (1966) Harrington Brothers (1985) Don Dobson, Tom Spirito, Doug, David, Jeff, & Mike Harrington James Vienneau, Richard Vienneau Won the Cardinal District Formed in 1959, they finished championship in 1980 and 21st in 1960 and were silver finished 10th, 7th and 4th medalists in 1965. They were twice between ‘81 and ‘84. favorites to win in 1966 but had Their tight brotherly blend a bad first session and could not recover, finishing second again. They and young age opened the door for the youth movement. They were known for easy beat songs like “You Must Have Been a Beautiful remain the youngest-ever district champions, and received the first Baby” (Renee Craig) and future classic ballads like “Little Pal” (Lou Perry). 100 ever given by a judge, in 1984. Doug and David later won gold in Inspired the Boston Common, who sang several Rascal tunes. Second Edition (1989). Impostors (1965) Metropolis (2003) Harry Klepsteen, Joe Warren, James Sabina, Bob Hartley, Ed Jensen, Bob Brock Mike McGee, Brian Philbin This quartet won the Illinois Over their 12 International District in 1962. The very next contest appearances, Metrop- year, they placed 6th their first olis distinguished themselves time out. In 1964, they received as a crowd favorite for their their first medal, 5th place, and followed that with a 3rd place medal in clever and hilarious presentations. They medaled five consecutive times 1965. One of their most popular sets was when they dressed as clowns between 2002 and 2006, including two 3rd-place finishes. One of and sang, “Let a Smile Be Your Umbrella.” barbershop’s most sought-after show quartets, they also made several television and radio appearances.

Nighthawks (1963) Pacificaires (1973) Greg Backwell, Jim Turner, Al Mau, Rudy Wissler, John Sutton, Bert Elli Fred Dregne, Bill Fritz A brilliant, treble-driven sound Hailing from California, this that drove audiences wild and popular Far Western District drove Arrangement judges to quartet competed six times at distraction. The London, Ont.- the International competition, based quartet earned four medals and seven top 10 finishes in the 1960s, from 1969 to 1974. Former champion Al Mau (Western Continentals) including silver in 1963, with a captivating new Backwell chart virtually joined the quartet in 1973. With a bright, exciting sound, they are every year, including “Brother Can You Spare a Dime.” Their “I was the kid one of only a few quartets to win three silver medals in a row. with the DRUM!” is among the most iconic passages ever heard in contest.

Play-tonics (1956) Riptide (2004) Eugene Loebs, Dave Mittelstadt, Rick Taylor, Tim Reynolds, Vic Trabulsi, Ralph Brandt Richard Lewellen, Jeff Selano From Teaneck, New Jersey, this Based in Atlanta, this quartet great foursome won the Mid-At- debuted at 22nd in 1998 and lantic District contest in 1954. rapidly climbed the ranks to 6th They made a quick climb into two years later, followed by five the top five with a huge jump from their 1955 16th place to the second consecutive years in the medals. They were known for a great ensemble place silver medals in 1956. They remained in the top 10 for the next four sound and were one of the best at lock and ring in recent years. They years. During their history, they beat eight future champs. reached as high as third in 2004. LORIN MAY

26 | The Harmonizer | July/August 2020 | barbershop.org Roaring ‘20s (1980) SRO (1997) Don Gray, Gerry Kelly, Gary Steinkamp, Fraser Brown, Mike Connelly, Jim Gentil Russ Young, Joe D’Amore The most appropriate ways This Phoenix, Arizona quartet to describe this Cincinnati got together in 1990 and won comedy force probably would the Far Western District contest be “beloved” and “troupers.” in 1992. They were a fixture in For the 19 years the Roaring ‘20s competed at International, bari Ron the top 10 for almost the entire decade, including four straight bronze Reigler’s bulky raccoon coat was their dominant fixture. They were the medals from 1994-1997, placing as high as 3rd. They were known for FRED of their day, always funny, 11 times in the top 10 and earning seven their professionalism, showmanship, and fondness for all things Disney. medals–topping at third in 1990. Oh, yeah, they could sing, too.

State Line Grocery (2009) Sundowners (1971) Dylan Oxford, Tim Brooks, Jack Hayes, Larry Wright, Drew McMillan, Mark Lamback Greg Wright, Doug Smith Hailing from Georgia and Between 1966 and 1971, the representing the Dixie District, Sundowners earned six con- State Line Grocery came onto secutive medals. They finished the International Competition third, second, and second with scene in 2005 placing 11th. By their fifth and final contest they earned Larry stationed at Fort Campbell, Ky. Army base, meeting to sing only at four top ten and three top five finishes, including a 3rd-place medal. shows and contests. Young, fresh, and ahead of the quartet standard They were especially known for their smooth lead, resonant bass, and of the era, with a consistently smooth legato sound. Their four-part innovative arrangements. harmony and remarkable blend often produced “five” parts.

The Naturals (1990) Uptown Sound (2001) Bob Moorehead, Randy Chisholm, Jeff Archer, Dave Calland, Mike Connelly, Jim Gentil Steven Kovach, Jr, Steve Denino In the mid-1980s, three of the This quartet burst onto the veteran performers who had scene in 1996, winning the LORIN MAY made the Roaring ‘20s such a Johnny Appleseed District and success over the years–Bob placing in the top 20 in their Moorehead, Mike Connelly and Jim Gentil–teamed with golden-voiced first International competition. Before they were done, they would win younger lead Randy Chisholm for a quartet that burst on the scene to four medals, finishing as high as 2nd in 2001 and 2002. They are most claim five top 10 finishes and 4 medals, including a third-place bronze. remembered for their beautiful ballads like “It’s Impossible” and “The Randy went on to win gold with Marquis in 1995. Nearness of You.” Vagabonds (1976) Vaudeville (1985) Ken Gibson, Dennis Gore, John Casey, Scott Werner, Clay Shumard, Norman Thompson John Hohl, Bill Cody They won the Pioneer District in Formed in 1980, this quartet 1969 and placed 17th in their placed ninth at the International first International competition in convention in 1981. Later that 1971. They switched to Clay Shu- year, they won the Mid-Atlantic mard on baritone in 1975 and finished in the medals three times, placing District contest. For the next five years, they would come away with med- as high as second in 1976. They were known for their smooth, lyrical lead, als, including four straight top three finishes. Their repertoire was largely Denny Gore, and had an ensemble sound well ahead of their time. made up of traditional barbershop, which they executed consistently well.

barbershop.org | July/August 2020 | The Harmonizer | 27 Interview with Patrick Blaha, second from left Join the Club The new campus barbershop clubs: student and Lifetime member Patrick Blaha on the first official BHS barbershop club, at UNC-Chapel Hill

s of last fall, school-based How did you get involved with this Was this before you knew about groups can form official club? the Society having the BHS club A BHS clubs, where the group I’ve been a Barbershopper for five program? enjoys an affiliation with the Society years. When I chose my college room- It was before the Society had the without requiring group members to mate, we picked each other because program, actually. We had started have individual BHS memberships, we wanted to sing together. We were getting together and singing with although some choose to become looking to do some a cappella on cam- some people—mostly just doing some members. Young singers who love pus—there are probably seven or eight tags, some polecats—the prior spring barbershop but who may not be in a well-known groups at UNC-CH. All semester. As we were trying to ramp position to join a chapter can receive of them are auditioned; all of them are official recognition and BHS assis- very selective. But I loved just getting tance. together with friends and singing Joe Simpson We recently interviewed Patrick songs, standing around the circle, Chapter board Blaha, a junior at University of North quartetting and tagging. So we decided member for Heart Carolina-Chapel Hill and a Lifetime to start a barbershop a cappella club of Carolina Mixed BHS member, who co-founded a and create a singing environment that A Cappella Chorus barbershop club on his campus. Here’s was really inclusive. [email protected] what we learned. HOPE DAVIDSON KRISTEN CHAVEZ

28 | The Harmonizer | July/August 2020 | barbershop.org “I WAS HAPPY THAT MY Chapters: Get your local school or university interested CLUB MEMBERS’ FIRST in barbershop–help them start a BHS club! Are you looking for a fun, engaging, low-pressure way to get young singers excited about EXPERIENCE WITH ORGANIZED barbershop? Consider helping them start an educational BHS Club at their school. The BARBERSHOP AND WITH THE students can tailor the BHS Club to their group’s barbershop interests and talents, and each participant in the club will receive free resources to strengthen their love of barber- SOCIETY WAS SO SUPPORTIVE shop harmony. AND WELCOMING.” How can your chapter help? Consider doing one or all of the following: • Sponsor the annual $150.00 Educational Club Fee. This covers ALL of the club participants, so no other membership dues are required. • Spread the word: Help local music educators start a club at their school or university. • Assist the club pioneers: Young students may need advice, administrative support, or up and become an officially recognized other help to get a club off the ground. Offer chapter resources! club at our school, the Society released • Engage and motivate the club: Invite established clubs to participate in your chapter’s an interest form. I filled out the form future events. and got in contact with Devin Brad- To support the next generation of barbershop singers, reach out to community@barber- ford, BHS Community Development shop.org for any assistance or questions. Manager. She was a great help to us in getting things set up.

How did your local chapter help get tration fee. We did not want to create several club members perform in our the club off the ground? a hardship for any of the students, school choir’s show. That really made To become an official club with BHS and wanted to remove all barriers for an impression. and have access to Society resources joining the club. So, I reached out to and benefits such as using the Bar- see if the chapter I sing with, Central How do you sell fellow students on bershop Harmony Society name, we Carolina Chapter (Heart of Carolina the barbershop club? needed $150 to pay the annual regis- A Cappella) in nearby Durham—which Mostly through word of mouth, and has men’s, women’s, and mixed harmo- through some street-corner tag singing. ny choruses—could provide support. That approach has been very success- The barbershop club at the University of North They were excited to be approached ful. We have 14 or 15 members now, I’d Carolina-Chapel Hill is both an official school for help, and invited our club to visit say 10 regulars there every week. Prob- club and an official BHS club. It attracts students a chapter rehearsal and sing a couple ably seven or eight of them are in the who may have never considered an off-campus of songs for them. We had a blast! I UNC music department and trained organization, while enjoying official support from was happy that my club members’ first in classical voice—they’re semi-profes- a nearby chapter, from the Carolinas District, and experience with organized barbershop sional-level singers trying out barber- from BHS headquarters staff. Members of The and with the Society was so support- shop for the first time. The other half Melanin Queens caught the barbershop bug while ive and welcoming. Later, some of mostly have never sung before. It’s a in the club and formed a quartet on their own. the chapter members came out to see good mix of skill levels. We were planning on a large membership recruitment drive for Barber- shop Quartet Day on April 11th. But as COVID-19 would have it, we were all sent home about three weeks before that.

Describe your performances and your repertoire. We’ve had a couple of paid gigs this year, which fund our music purchases. The club as an ensemble does seven songs right now. In performances, we teach a bit about barbershop harmony by going through the classic demon- HOPE DAVIDSON KRISTEN CHAVEZ

barbershop.org | July/August 2020 | The Harmonizer | 29 Are you in school? Create a BHS Club! “THE CLUB HAS BEEN EXCITING Start by gauging interest at your school or in your local community. Keep your ears tuned TO ME BECAUSE PEOPLE I for ANYONE singing. Once you have at least four or more people interested in singing, you can decide what KNOW WHO WOULDN’T BE sort of club you’d like to be and the activities that fit your members - it’s up to you! For ABLE TO JOIN A CHAPTER example, clubs could be focused on traditional or contemporary barbershop music, or on single-gender harmony, or on seasonal activities (holiday shows, etc.) ARE IN MY CLUB SINGING BHS welcomes ALL types of groups and ensembles who are interested in forming an official club. Contact [email protected] to learn more. BARBERSHOP.” Clubs receive: • Access to free music • BHS-branded marketing and membership recruitment resources • Use of BHS name and logo when promoting your club What advantages does a barbershop • Club Orientation Guide with tips and resources to set your club up for success club offer? • Electronic individual and club certificates to showcase your club’s involvement in your A lot of students aren’t in a state local community where they’d consider joining an • Discounts on club-related items from BHS Marketplace off-campus organization just yet. The • Group discounts to BHS events and more! club has been exciting to me because Learn more at barbershop.org/club. people I know who wouldn’t be able to join a chapter are in my club singing barbershop. stration of the four separate parts, holds a business meeting halfway building the sound by putting together through the rehearsal, then it’s back to When campuses reopen, how do you a Barberpole Cat. Then some folks will the repertoire. The singing portion is see the BHS Barbershop club effort step out and quartet a couple more led by the Music VP—my position for going in general? Polecats. And now our own kind of the past year. Next school year that will I believe a lot of the success will “chapter quartet,” calling themselves be someone younger, so an experienced hinge on the districts. Having an The Melanin Queens, have formed VP can be in place after I graduate. official relationship with the Society and can perform a couple of songs. Our president handles business gives me the ability to easily go to my It was really cool for me, with the with the school, by taking care of the district and say, “Hey, we’re a BHS mindset of “Let’s teach everyone about things we need to maintain our status club. We’d like to sing at the conven- barbershop,” to see this quartet form as an official University club, like tion,” or “We’d like to connect with in the club without my being involved reporting membership and managing a local chapter.” Before the Caroli- at all. It’s great to have organic growth the surveys and forms that the school nas District’s spring 2020 conven- like that—and to see the club becoming mandates. We have a treasurer and a tion was canceled, we had been in a hub for quartetting rather than only membership VP as well. conversations about special rates for singing as a chorus.

How are things structured with the club and meetings? We’ve emulated a chapter, to some extent. Meetings run two hours, starting with warm-ups and a tag, then we work on some songs. The president

Patrick Blaha (second from left) said other established groups on campus are highly- auditioned and super elite, so barbershop club members are drawn to both the inclusiveness of the club and the inclusiveness of the barbershop style itself. About half the club are music majors, and

about half had limited prior singing experience. KRISTEN CHAVEZ LORIN MAY

30 | The Harmonizer | July/August 2020 | barbershop.org our club members so we could help Is there anything else you’d like peo- sical choir or even a pop group where the students experience a barber- ple to know about your experiences you’re talking sopranos, altos, tenors shop convention and perform there. with the barbershop club at UNC? and basses—where girls and guys are I think that sort of accommodation Barbershop has been great for us segregated in parts. It’s been a very pos- will be most likely at the district lev- because it has inclusion baked into it, itive, inclusive experience to sing a form el. It might be tougher for the Society especially when we’re talking about of music that isn’t so heavily drawn as International and Midwinter con- gender inclusion. The voice parts are along those lines. And having our local ventions involve a different level of what they are—tenor, lead, bari, and chapter be a mixed-gender organiza- expense. But I think that if you can bass have nothing to do with your tion that’s very accepting and inclusive get a person to any convention, sing- gender. It’s the function that they play has been really great for us. I’m a little ing tags until four in the morning, in the arrangement. embarrassed that one of the women has they’ll be Barbershoppers for life. It’s a switch from singing with a clas- better bass notes than I do though. n

Denver’s 52Eighty Chorus (ages 18-25) at the 2019 International Convention Recruiting and retaining college students Clubs meet the needs of many, but some students would happily participate in a chapter-based experience … if they can overcome these concerns

hen it comes to finding the right singers for Possible solution: It is common for college stu- W our choruses, we often search venues where dents to participate in numerous ensembles. Many a bulk of other performers can be found. Of those music majors carry additional responsibilities, such areas, colleges and universities are perhaps the most as leadership positions, service, and the like. One potentially fruitful, as we find a dense population of possible solution would be to connect with the col- musicians in a small area with a vast array of expe- leges or universities in our area, to offer your chorus riences. Yet, attracting these students—and helping them carve out the space to pursue their interest in barbershop—eludes many of us. Here, I will share a Dr. Jacob Bartlett is an Associate few roadblocks we face, along with a possible solu- Professor of Music and a Choir tion for each. Director at Peru State College in Nebraska. He has been a Barber- AVAILABILITY/LACK OF TIME shopper since 2003. “I am too busy at school. I take (x) number of cred- [email protected] its, sing in two choirs already, and work part time.” KRISTEN CHAVEZ LORIN MAY

barbershop.org | July/August 2020 | The Harmonizer | 31 as college credit. This is an attractive “REMEMBER: HIGH SCHOOL zation would look great on a student’s option, especially to the student who entry-level résumé. Offering payment needs one more credit for a full-time STUDENTS ARE MORE LIKELY only sweetens the pot. load, or to one who did not make the cut for the top group at school TO HAVE PARENTAL FUNDING NON-COMMITTAL but would be a solid force in your AVAILABLE WHEREAS “I enjoy this, but I cannot attend ensemble. every rehearsal because I have class COLLEGE STUDENTS ARE conflicts, homework due, and work.” LACKING FUNDS MANY TIMES LEFT FENDING Possible solution: Yes, we all have “I understand the dues are free for conflicts, and regular attendance my first year and half price after that. FOR THEMSELVES.” matters to the group, but would I cannot afford chapter dues, though, you rather have a great singer half and in a year, I definitely won’t be the time or not at all? One way to able to afford half-price Society plus circumvent this issue is to vary the District plus Chapter dues.” PROFESSIONAL ADVANCEMENT repertoire choices each week and Possible solution: We all under- “I already participate in numerous to ask for a schedule of attendance stand that being in BHS is worth ensembles. I need real-world expe- in advance. As long as the student is it! Newly exposed college students rience, and possibly payment if I am upfront about conflicts (as with any do not understand the benefits yet going to commit extra time to music member), they could learn at least (unless they have been immersed in when I could be working.” some of your repertoire. Ask the new some other way). If we want to retain Possible solution: Time is precious member if he or she would be willing college students, we may want to for college students, especially at night, to learn half the music for a program eliminate our chapter dues or find when many must work to afford rent, or even 2-3 songs. You may find your- another creative way to address the tuition, food, or even support their self with a new member because of it. funding issue. One way would be families. You may need to offer some Some groups have thriving mem- for volunteer members in the group form of compensation or professional berships in this category. If you wish to “adopt” a younger member and opportunity; for example, internships to recruit among this age group, pay his or her dues while in school. (paid or not) for social media/mar- reach out to members who are Remember: High school students are keting, graphic design, accounting, or already this age! Ask what hooked more likely to have parental funding nonprofit management. Music students them, especially those that did not available (think show choir parents!), could serve as section leaders or even grow up going to our events. You whereas college students are many as assistant directors. Many church do not have to change your entire times left fending for themselves. choirs pay college students to “beef up” operation—you simply need to reach (Fifty bucks, or whatever our dues, is their chancel choirs. Can you do the out in ways that are more effective to a big deal.) same? Working for a nonprofit organi- attract this particular generation. n

If the low median age among the 1955 International Quartet Medalists is any indication, it is not a recent phenomenon that some of the most committed and skilled singers have been passionate about barbershop harmony from an early age. College-age women and men tend to have less available time and funding to belong to a barbershop chapter than any other time in their lives. But a little flexibility and help can go a long way toward helping them enjoy their four-part harmony passion in a chapter setting.

32 | The Harmonizer | July/August 2020 | barbershop.org DIRECTORS WANTED

Need a director? First 50 words are free for BHS chapters. [email protected]. See the most current postings at barbershop.org/directorsearch.

The 50-year-old Jeffersonland Chorus of The New Tradition Chorus (Northbrook, IL) is player with a proven track record. This is Charlottesville, VA, is a 20-man chorus that an acclaimed Chicago-area chorus seeking a paid position. Please direct inquiries to rehearses Monday nights. We are looking for someone with strong choral directing experi- [email protected]. an experienced director, and offer a modest ence and a track record of inspiring singers to compensation package and an engaged reach for the best. A college degree or strong We have an immediate opening for music membership, eager to learn and to perform. music training and the ability to arrange in director for our chapter, the Scarborough Dukes Contact Tom Guterbock: [email protected]. the barbershop style is a plus. Contact music@ of Harmony. (dukesofharmony.com) A preferred newtradition.org. candidate would be one with barbershop The North Georgia Barbershop Singers (Lake experience and perhaps other choral direct- Lanier, GA) has 30 members and seeks a Atlanta Vocal Project, the singing unit of the ing experience. Please contact Daniel Berlin director to take us to the next level. This paid Atlanta Metro Chapter, is seeking a new Musical ASAP if interested at 647-297-8905 or info@ position includes reimbursement for expens- Director to lead us on to the next chapter of dukesofharmony.com. es and training. Contact [email protected]. our journey. We seek an enthusiastic team

CHAPTER ETERNAL

Members reported as deceased between March 15 and May 15, 2020. Send updates to [email protected]

CARDINAL Gary Spilman Daniel Hudson George Macintire PIONEER Timothy Hanrahan James Lester Bellevue, WA Athens Co, OH South Coastal, DE Lawrence King Greater Canaveral, FL Mammoth Cave, KY French City, OH Brian Miller Greater Detroit Don Jolie Frank Ricks FAR WESTERN James Longshore Alexandria, VA Wm David Mohr Naples/Fort Myers, FL Greater Indianapolis, IN Randall Bingel Zanesville, OH Joseph Monahan Benton Harbor-St. John Kirk Fort Wayne, IN Greater Phoenix, AZ Stanley Martin Hunterdon County, NJ Joseph, MI Central Florida James Sauder Mesa, AZ Akron, OH Hamilton Square, NJ Gene Taphouse Robert McPherson Greater Indianapolis, IN Marvin Bos Earl Sharp Charles Spencer Hillsdale, MI Sarasota, FL Crescenta Valley, CA Xenia, OH Delco, PA John Shaerer Tim Hanrahan CAROLINAS Robert Gibson William Windnagle John Robinson SENECA LAND Central Florida BHS President John Earnhardt Aloha, HI Black Swamp, OH Rahway Valley, NJ George Ball Ocala, FL 1996-1997 Greater Gaston, NC Sean Goodman Webster, NY Robert Svozil Charlotte, NC San Fernando Valley, CA LAND O’ LAKES NORTHEASTERN Warsaw, NY Venice, FL Rocky Mount, NC Richard McClain Phillip Bachman Theodore Arnold David Murphy Sarasota, FL Deborah Friend Reno, NV Mankato, MN Manchester, CT Mohawk Valley, NY William Windnagle Savannah, GA John Hall Don Jolie Roderic Spingler Everglades, FL Donald Hallock ILLINOIS Mankato, MN Worcester, MA Auburn, NY Naples/Fort Myers, FL Greensboro, NC Kenneth Hoppe John Hansen Kenneth McCormack DuPage Valley, IL Minneapolis, MN Moncton, NB SOUTHWESTERN DIXIE Harold Jones James Lee James Mitchell Harry Brown Don Clause Robert McPherson Sandoval, IL Minneapolis, MN Brunswick, ME San Antonio, TX Former chairman Blue Ridge Mt. Foothills, GA Greater St. Paul Area, MN John Pelletier South Texas Alamo of Contest & JOHNNY APPLESEED Saratoga Springs, NY Regional Judging, coach EVERGREEN Frederick Dorsch MID-ATLANTIC Thomas Pottie Richard McClain Kenneth Duncan Frank Thorne William Dobson Dartmouth, NS South Texas Alamo Spokane, WA David Eleyet Montgomery County, MD John Rotteck Regional Gareth Evans Miami-Shelby, OH Donald Ferrante Frank Thorne William McQueen Langley, BC David Eitman Teaneck, NJ Arlington, TX William Martin Akron, OH Michael Feyrer ONTARIO Jim Snell Renee Craig Southwest British Gene Giffey Allentown Bethlehem, PA Douglas Davis SE Texas Houston, TX Columbia Defiance, OH James Hawthorne London, ON Gold medal Langley, BC Dayton Metro, OH Red Bank Area, NJ John Kirk SUNSHINE singer, director, Saul Schneider Greater Vancouver, BC George Lakin Greater Toronto, ON David Eitman and prolific, influ- Giant in New Charles Town, WV Manatee County, FL ential arranger Orleans bbshop

barbershop.org | July/August 2020 | The Harmonizer | 33 MEMBER SERVICES DIRECTORY

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Society Headquarters 110 7th Ave N • Nashville, TN 37203-3704 615-823-3993 • fax: 615-313-7615 • [email protected] Office hours: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Central

www.barbershop.org 800-876-7464 (SING)

EXECUTIVE OFFICES MARKETING PROGRAMS & IMPACT Marty Monson [email protected] [email protected] Executive Director/CEO Holly J. Kellar Erin Harris Megan Henderson Chief Marketing Officer Chief Program Officer Executive Assistant to the CEO Chris Bernstein Cassi Costoulas Advertising Campaign Manager Strategic Initiatives Manager FINANCE Sarah Brown Dustin Guyton [email protected] Marketing Coordinator Volunteer Manager Erik Dove Jeremy K. Gover Madison Wall CFO/COO Video Production Manager Data Analytics & Insights Manager Jama Clinard Eddie Holt Controller / HR Manager Graphic Design Manager OUTREACH Nick Anello James Hurlburt [email protected] Finance Administrator Video Production Specialist Joe Cerutti Brian Lynch Director of Outreach CONVENTIONS Public Relations Manager Chad Bennett [email protected] Jernie Talles Millan Show Producer Dusty Schleier Marketing Assistant Ashley Brown Director of Events & Conventions Amy Rose Outreach Grants Administrator and Inclusion Social Media/Comm. Manager Coordinator INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Ashley “Lani” Torroll [email protected] PARTICIPATION Outreach Youth Programs Coordinator Sam Hoover & ENGAGEMENT Systems Adminstrator customerservice@ MUSIC EDUCATION barbershop.org [email protected] HARMONY MARKETPLACE Caki Gray Donny Rose customerservice@ Director of Membership Director of Music Education barbershop.org Devin Bradford Steve Scott Mark Morgan Community Development Manager Music Education Curriculum Director of Marketplace and Retail Ops. Danny Becker and Online Learning Manager Justin Gray Quartet Success Manager Brent Suver Warehouse Manager Katie Macdonald Music Education Operations Coordinator Krystie Mitchell Recruitment & Retention Manager Warehouse Coordinator Nate Ogg MUSIC PUBLICATIONS Raphael Llana Chapter Success Manager [email protected] Marketplace eCommerce Assistant Janice Bane CUSTOMER SERVICE Copyright & Licensing Manager STRATEGY customerservice@ Scott Harris [email protected] barbershop.org Arranger & Repertoire Manager Kevin Lynch Rich Smith Resat Taser Chief Strategy Officer Contact Center Success Manager Music Production Coordinator Allison Barrett Customer Service Luke Davis Customer Service Douglas Gordon Receptionist/Bldg. Maintenance

34 | The Harmonizer | July/August 2020 | barbershop.org OFFICIAL ALLIANCES BOARD OF DIRECTORS President • Barbershop Harmony Australia Dick Powell • Crofton, MD barbershop.org.au • Dan Millgate: [email protected] 410-451-0694 [email protected] • BHNZ (Barbershop Harmony New Zealand) BOARD MEMBERS AT LARGE barbershopharmony.nz • John Denton: [email protected] Executive Vice President Jeremy Albright • Haslet, TX John Miller • Westport, CT 620-249-1605 • BABS (British Association of Barbershop Singers) 203-254-9594 [email protected] singbarbershop.com • Martin Baglow: [email protected] [email protected] Jeremy Brann • Lexington, KY • BinG! (Barbershop in Germany) Treasurer 859-420-7696 barbershop-in-germany.de • Constanze Jager: [email protected] John Santora • Bel Air, MD [email protected] 410-937-2611 • Holland Harmony [email protected] Blair Brown • San Diego, CA hollandharmony.dse.nl • Leonie Vink: [email protected] 314-486-1668 Immediate Past President [email protected] Skipp Kropp • Indianapolis, IN • FABS (Finnish Association of Barbershop Singers) 317-946-9882 John Donehower • Monroe, WI fabs.fi • Valentin Arbamenkov: [email protected] [email protected] 563-599-8565 • IABS (Irish Association of Barbershop Singers) [email protected] Executive Director/ irishbarbershop.org • Liz Nolan: [email protected] Board Secretary Randy Loos • Lecanto, FL Marty Monson (Ex Officio) • 727-510-5901 • MBHA (Mixed Barbershop Harmony Assoc.) Franklin, TN [email protected] mixedbarbershop.org • Roxanne Powell: [email protected] 800-876-7464 [email protected] Bernard Priceman • Palm Desert, CA • SABS (Spanish Association of Barbershop Singers) 818-625-2832 sabs.es • Dawn Ritch: [email protected] [email protected] • SNOBS (Society of Nordic Barbershop Singers) snobs.org • Henrik Rosenberg: [email protected] FRIENDS IN HARMONY • SPATS (Southern Part of Africa Tonsorial Singers) • Harmony Foundation International • harmonyfoundation.org spats.co.za • Mark Jensen van Rensburg: [email protected] • Sing Canada Harmony • SingCanadaHarmony.ca • American Choral Directors Association • acdaonline.org • Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia • sinfonia.org • World Harmony Council • worldbarbershop.org • National Museum for African-American Music • nmaam.org • Sweet Adelines International • sweetadelines.com • Harmony, Incorporated • harmonyinc.org • Barbershop Quartet Preservation Association • bqpa.com • National Association for Music Education • nafme.org GENERAL CORRESPONDENCE EDITORIAL BOARD • Chorus America • chorusamerica.org [email protected] Holly J. Kellar, Brian Lynch, Amy Rose, • Ladies Association of British Barbershop Singers • labbs.org.uk Sarah Brown, Lorin May EDITORIAL Lorin May (Editor) (Stan Peppenhorst, copy editing) Brian Lynch, Amy Rose (Associate Editors)

SOCIETY SUBSIDIARIES (PARTIAL LIST) • Association of International Champions • AICGold.com • Harmony Brigade • harmonybrigade.org • Association of International Seniors Quartet Champions • aisqc.com North Carolina • Indiana • Atlantic • Harmony U • Great Lakes • High Sierra • • Ancient Harmonious Society of Woodshedders • ahsow.org New England • Lone Star • Northern Pines • European • United Kingdom • • Southern Harmony Brigade • southernharmonybrigade.com Mixed Harmony Brigade (New England)

barbershop.org | July/August 2020 | The Harmonizer | 35 THE TAG

Joe Liles, Tagmaster [email protected]

for men's voices for male voices Words and Music by J.H.McNAUGHTON When There's Love at Home Tag Arrangement by MEL KNIGHT When x j 2 3 j 4 Tenor œ bœ œ œ œ ˙ ˙ b˙ Lead bb b 4 œ. œ œ œ œ œœ œœ. nœ There’s V b 4 J œ œ ˙ œ œ w Time does soft - ly sweet - ly glide, when there's love aJt home. j j Love At Bari œ. œ œ œ œ œ n˙ œ œ œ w Bass ? b 4 œ œ œ œ n ˙ œ. ˙ ˙ b bb 4 œ. J œ œ œ. œ Home home. J 5 ˙ 6 ˙. 7 8 b ˙ . œ w w V b bb ˙ n˙ A˙ œ ˙ " œ œ w efore we mention When there's love at home, love at home. B the tag here, I want to correct the name of the ˙ ˙ ˙ ? b b ˙ ˙ œ œ ˙ " œ bœ w composer of the “Lonely b b ˙ œ howme. w For You Am I” tag. Some thought it was Mac Huff, for women's voices but no, it was Joe Palmquist When There's Love at Home Tag for female voices Words and Music by J.H.McNAUGHTON Arrangement by MEL KNIGHT of Far Western District 2 3 x 4 fame. Fabulous tag, Joe! Tenor j j Lead b 4 œ bœ œ œ b˙ The versions on the website & b b 4 œ. œ œ œ œ ˙ œ œœ œœ. nœ ˙ J œ œ ˙ œ œ w have been updated. Time does soft - ly sweet - ly glide, when there's love aJt home. The tag you see Bari j j Bass Ê b 4 œ œ œ œ œ œ #˙ œ œ œ w here is b b 4 . œ œ œ œ n ˙ œ. ˙ ˙ œ. J œ œ œ. œ from the home. J fine ar- 5 6 7 8 rangement b ˙ ˙ ˙. w " w of “Love at Home” by Mel & b b ˙ n˙ A˙. œœ ˙ œ œ w Knight. Mel has a master’s When there's love at home, love at home. degree in music theory and composition, directed the Ê ˙ ˙ ˙ " bbb ˙ ˙ œ œ ˙ œ bœ w Evergreen District Cascade ˙ œ howme. w Chorus to several championships, won district quartet for mixed voices championships, served as a When There's Love at Home Tag for mixed voices Words and Music by J.H.McNAUGHTON certified judge in the Music Arrangement by MEL KNIGHT 2 3 x 4 Category, was Director of Tenor j Music Services for the Soci- Lead bb 4 œ j & 4 œ. œ bœ œ œ ˙ œ œ œœ. #œ ˙ b˙ ety from 1988 to 1993, and œ. J œ œ œ ˙ œ œ . œ w sang baritone with the 2000 Time does soft - ly sweet - ly glide, when there's love aJt home. international senior quartet j j champion, Over Time. He’s Bari œ. œ œ œ œ œ #˙ œ œ . œ w Bass ? b 4 œ œ œ œ n ˙ œ ˙ ˙ been on the faculty of many b 4 œ. J œ œ œ. œ home. J district and international 5 6 7 8 schools and coached b ˙ quartets and choruses. Mel & b ˙ ˙. w w ˙ n˙ A˙. œœ ˙ œ œ w has arranged many, many When there's love at home, " love at home. songs, too. n ˙ ˙ ˙ œ œ ˙ œ bœ ? b ˙ ˙ œ œ " w b howme. w

36 | The Harmonizer | July/August 2020 | barbershop.org