Why this holiday?
July 13th was selected in 2001 to be National Barbershop Appreciation Day. Its purpose is to bring awareness of this close-knit 4-part harmony built on ringing chords. It also celebrates its American origins.
Did you see the movie The Music Man? That was my first encounter with barbershop. I once was guilty of thinking it was only old music sung by men with straw hats. The truth is both men and women have played a role in creating the barbershop of today.
A Little History
In the 19th century this style of 4-part harmony was common. Entertainment was performed live. Vaudeville provided a variety of live acts, including barbershop quartets. As silent films became popular, barbershop acts would entertain before the show. In the early 20th century, talking pictures, records, and radio reduced reliance on live performances. Barbershop was fading.
Singing for fun
A men’s dinner party was held April 11, 1938. A night of singing was planned. Nearly twice the number of people invited showed up. They had a great time. They continued to meet and later organized.
In 1945 on July 13th a group of women gathered to sing. Those women were familiar with barbershop because of their husbands. That small gathering grew into Sweet Adelines International. The original male group was SPEBSQSA (Society for the Preservation and Encouragement of Barber Shop Quartet Singing in America. Today they are known as Barbershop Harmony Society.
RINGiNG CHORDS
In today’s barbershop any period of music can be used. Groups have the freedom to set their own dynamics and tempo. Often their music is performed with choreography. It makes a performance that’s fun to watch as well as to listen to.
The barbershop repertoire is built on 4 parts singing together. This must be done while singing in the same key. When that occurs, overtones can happen. The beauty is it’s not necessary to fully understand to enjoy. Here’s a link if you want more information. Barbershop 101 | Sweet Adelines
How to Celebrate
Check with your singing friends. They may know of groups in your area. The internet is also a great source. Choruses and quartets can be found by visiting a barbershop site, at the end of this blog are two resources. Both offer prompts to locate groups in your area. Try to locate a live performance. Performers thrive on their audience’s energy. Likewise, other audience members enhances the experience for the viewer. You’ll be supporting and helping to continue this legacy.
If there isn’t an event nearby use YouTube. It’s a great source. You can look for the group’s name or pick an international event and watch the winners.
Gotta Sing
If you enjoy singing, locate a chorus near you and schedule a visit. Attend a rehearsal and discover the attention to detail. Education of their members is fundamental to all barbershop organizations. You’ll also discover the fun and friendships that are created.
Harmonize the World
Singing regularly brings benefits. Two I still appreciate are posture awareness and deep breathing. Deep breathing is known to help relaxation and reduce anxiety. Barbershopping can also be physically and mentally challenging. Try standing on risers while singing your part and doing choreography! Barbershoppers work hard and are happier for what they and their singing friends achieve.
I was in two Sweet Adeline choruses for 20+ years. I appreciate this day for celebrating a style of music I came to love. Among the benefits of performing barbershop are connecting to our audiences and each other. I was fortunate to be a member in two choruses where I made music, friends, and memories.
Paper Crafted Bliss is dedicated to the idea of connecting. Having a hobby like barbershop gives you a chance to build those connections in person. When you can’t be with others you can keep in touch. Just as there is room for many styles of music, there are many ways to do that today. I hope you’ll look at what Paper Crafted Bliss offers. An Etsy link is below. When you want to send a card, it’s important to pick one that resonates with their importance to you. It builds harmony, stronger ties and strengthens the connection between you.
If you are, were or thinking of exploring barbershop music please leave a comment below. Want to tune in for next month’s topic? Know of a fun holiday? Let me know in the comments. Thanks!
Paper Crafted Bliss 