2. What is Barbershop
Music ?
Barbershop music is a vocal harmony, usually sung a-capella (with no
instrument accompaniment).
It is normally sung in a quartet that includes a lead singer who sings the
melody, a tenor who harmonizes the melody. The bass that sings the lowest
notes, and the baritone that completes the chord.
Barbershop music is performed by men and women, but is more commonly
sung by men.
Songs have understandable lyrics and simple melodies that resolve mostly
around the circle of fifths.
3. History
During the second half of the 19th century, barbershops were community
centers, where men would gather to socialize. The Barbershop music
originated from African American men singing and harmonizing together
while waiting for their turn in the barbershop.
White minstrel singers adopted this style of singing, and developed early
standards such as “Shine on Harvest Moon”. From 1900 to 1919 Barbershop
music was very popular, but lost its popularity in the 1920’s.
Barbershop music regained its popularity in the 1940’s, and is still sung today
by many people worldwide.
4. National Organizations
BHS (Barbershop Harmony Society) is one of the first organizations with the
goal of preserving Barbershop music as and art form.
It was founded in 1938 by Owen C. Cash and Rupert I. Hall.
In 2012, just under 25,000 men were members of the BHS.
The BHS library contains over 100,000 titles.
SAI (Sweet Adeline’s International) is a women’s organization of barbershop
singers.
It was established by Edna Mae Anderson in 1945.
5. Typical Barbershop
Songs
Most barbershop songs are about love or nostalgic feelings.
Traditional songs include: “Down by the Old Mill Stream” “Let Me Call You
Sweetheart” “The Story of the Rose” “Wait Till the Sun Shines, Nellie”
“Sweet, Sweet Roses of Morn” “You Tell Me Your Dream”.
Other Popular Barbershop Songs: “Come Fly With Me” “Hello Ma Baby”
“Shine on Harvest Moon” “In the Good Old Summer Time” “Sweet Georgia
Brown” “Yes Sir, That’s My Baby”.
6. Notable Quartets
Da Vinci's Notebook - disbanded quartet known for their humorous songs
The Haydn Quartet – popular quartet in the early 20th century
The Buffalo Bills – quartet that was formed in Buffalo, New York, they were
popular during the 50s
The Dapper Dans of Disneyland
The Singing Senators - a quartet of U.S. Senators
Nightlife - the 1996 International Champion Quartet of the S.P.E.B.S.Q.S.A. Inc.
from Los Angeles
Ringmasters – the 2012 International Champion Quartet of the S.P.E.B.S.Q.S.A
