What is barbershop harmony?
Barbershop harmony is an exciting style of 4-part a capella singing. The 4 parts are:

• Lead: Sings the melody;
• Tenor: A harmony part sung consistently above the lead;
• Bass: Sings the lowest part and provides the foundation of the music; and
• Baritone: Completes the chord by harmonizing above or below the lead.

When all 4-parts in a quartet or chorus are in perfect balance, a “ringing” or overtone sound is produced. This “ring” is a joy to the singers and audience alike. Barbershop music is also about presentation, and props and precise choreography are used to enhance the score’s message and entertainment value.

Why sing barbershop harmony?

• Barbershop harmony is a unique and challenging hobby, but one that is also extremely fun and rewarding. It is built around a chord structure that is emotionally satisfying to both the listener and performer. It allows you to express yourself through choreography and artistic interpretation of music. It involves a level of energy and physical engagement not usually found in other choral forms. Barbershop encourages you to engage with and entertain your audience, to enrich the lives of yourself and others.
• Anyone can do it. You don’t need to be able to read music or have sung previously. Anyone of average singing ability will find a part that fits their vocal range. When you gather ordinary voices into a chorus or quartet, the whole becomes greater that the sum of the parts.
• By joining, you will become part of a national and international community. There are almost 1000 male barbershop singers in Australia and 35000 members worldwide, with networks and resources to support every endeavour. You’ll have fun and make lifelong friends. You will also receive high level vocal coaching which you will benefit from in any style of singing you wish to undertake.

Club Membership

When you first arrive, one of our music team will assess your voice and determine which of the four parts that make up our style of singing will best suit you. The assessment takes only a few minutes while you sing some notes for us to assess your vocal range.

• A low resonant voice would usually indicate the BASS part for you;
• A mid to high range would suggest the LEAD or melody part;
• If you read music or have a natural ear for it you may be assessed as a BARITONE or TENOR.

From there, you are introduced to a “buddy”.  The “buddy” will sing the same part and is essentially the person who will help you become a member of the Chorus.