How do I learn more about EVBH?
Drop us a note with your contact information, and we'll be in touch. Visitors and new members are always welcome at our rehearsals - we can't wait to meet you!
What is Barbershop?
Barbershops harmony's four voice parts are called by their traditional names - tenor, lead, baritone and bass – whether referring to men's or women's vocal groups. One of the distinctive qualities of barbershop harmony is that the melody, sung by the lead voice, is below the tenor harmony.
Watch a video about the history and evolution of barbershop.
Do I have to read music?
No. About half our members read music, but it’s not a requirement. We learn new songs with online learning tracks, recordings of the four parts alone and together. You’ll learn quickly, whether you read music or not.
How often do you rehearse?
We rehearse weekly, and one a year hold an in-town all day retreat for coaching and special activities.
Will I have to sing alone?
Since our art form requires four parts, we rarely do anything alone! There may be a few opportunities for a soloist to sing a few lines, but most of the time, we sing together and build on each other’s voices. New members are even encouraged to sing "in the wings" while the performing chorus is rehearsing on the risers.
Am I good enough?
Yes! If you can carry a tune, are willing to learn, and have the desire to perform, you have everything you need to succeed at singing barbershop.
What are the benefits of membership?
As a member, the organization becomes yours. The programs are planned by members for members. You’ll discover that the opportunities available through the Barbershop Harmony Society are almost unlimited. Membership in the Barbershop Harmony Society provides superb, unmatched vocal education; affiliation with this almost 23,000-strong international men’s organization; the support and knowledge such an organization has to offer; discounts on products and music arrangements; special music arrangements only available to members; subscription to The Harmonizer and other regular publications; and the “intangibles” such as increased self-esteem, friendship and emotional support.
It sounds like a lot of fun---is it really?
It's incredibly fun -- and incredibly challenging! It's keeps you young and enthused and involved. It lets you indulge your "inner Il Divo" and enjoy applause...while you work really hard to learn new skills. You'll make lifelong friends...and there's even evidence that it's good for your health:
"People who sing are healthier than people who don’t. Singing gives the lungs a workout, tones abdominal and intercostal muscles and the diaphragm, and stimulates circulation. It makes us breathe more deeply than many forms of strenuous exercise, so we take in more oxygen, improve aerobic capacity and experience a release of muscle tension as well. " — Professor Graham Welch, Director of Educational Research, University of Surrey, Roehampton, UK
