From: "Ross E. Wilkins" <rossewilkins@...>

Atlantic Harmony Brigade
Extreme Quartet Singing for the Rugged Individualist
August 21-23, 2009

Nearly 600 quartet men from around the Society and from other countries
including Canada, Germany, and Sweden have discovered "eXtreme
Quartetting®"!

You read about it in the July `07 issue of the Harmonizer, now it is
YOUR turn to give it a try!

Applications are now being accepted for the 2009 Atlantic Harmony
Brigade rally to be held in Wilmington, DE from August 21 to August 23,
2009. If you are a passionate, ambitious, fast learning,  experienced
quartet guy and you want a chance to learn and sing the arrangements
your favorite International-level quartets are singing, the Atlantic
Harmony Brigade may be for you.

This is your chance to meet other ambitious guys from outside of your
chapter (but not too far away from you) with whom you will share a
repertory of 12 champion-level songs. You'll have roughly 16 weeks
to learn the arrangements and everyone comes ready, willing, and able to
spend all weekend mixing it up in hundreds of good quartet combinations!
You'll participate in an adjudicated quartet contest with randomly
drawn partners and a randomly drawn song pulled from the repertory. The
weekend also includes a fully staged show that features guest and
brigade quartets and the entire Brigade as a 125+ man chorus.

If you have ever attended a Society school or a District or
International convention where you stayed up well beyond your bedtime
singing with other guys for the fun of it, then you will be able to
relate to the Brigade experience. The difference is instead of trying to
figure out what you all know you will all have 12 great songs in common
- and you will have more time to do it!

Go to http://atlanticharmonybrigade.com/Prospectus2009.pdf
<http://atlanticharmonybrigade.com/Prospectus2009.pdf>  to apply and
learn more about the rally weekend. Send your application in right away
to get the benefit of an early review. Applications MUST BE RECEIVED no
later than March 1, 2009. Apply Today!

The Atlantic Harmony Brigade is an official BHS subsidiary.

--------------------------------------
Ross E. Wilkins
Marketing VP, Atlantic Harmony Brigade
--------------------------------------
Way Too Feisty (Quartet)
James River, VA Chapter - http://soundworkschorus.org
<http://soundworkschorus.org>
Norfolk, VA Chapter - http://commodorechorus.org
<http://commodorechorus.org>
Atlantic  North Carolina Harmony Brigades -
http://www.atlanticharmonybrigade.com
<http://www.atlanticharmonybrigade.com>
--------------------------------------
h - (757) 366-0543, c - (757) 450-8238
rossewilkins@...
--------------------------------------

From: Max Häggström <maxhaggstrom@...>

Hello friends and fellow artists!    Greetings from Stockholm,
Sweden.  zero8 (formed in early 2007) is a chorus mostly made up
of music students from Stockholm and is directed by our founder,
Doug Harrington (coach and producer of vocal harmonies, performer
for over 35 years and baritone of Second Edition, 1989 SPEBSQSA
International Quartet Champions).  We sing a wide variety of music
including Rock, Pop, Soul, Swedish Choral pieces, Spirituals and
Barbershop.  Our repertoire includes songs from artists such as
Eric Clapton, Wilson Pickett, Carl Michael Bellman, Eddy Arnold,
Barry Manilow, Lennon & McCartney and Curtis Mayfield.

As members of SNoBS (Society of Nordic Barbershop Singers),
an affiliate of the Barbershop Harmony Society, zero8 became
Nordic Champions of Barbershop in April, 2008, qualifying for
both the European Barbershop Open (Veldhoven, Holland March, 2009)
and the World Barbershop Championship (Anaheim, California July,
2009).  As you can guess, 2009 is going to be quite a year for
us with trips to Holland and California, 2 local concerts as well
as one in Anaheim and a new CD…ALL BEFORE MID-JULY!!!

So with this letter, we would like to officially launch our new
website and announce the coming of our debut CD, 'Change The World',
with a planned release in March, 2009...but we need your help!  In
order to successfully complete this CD project, we need sponsors.
What we are offering is an opportunity for you as an individual,
or perhaps your group, to sponsor 1 (or more) song(s) on our debut
CD (see detailed track list below)!  You will get to choose your
own song and for your generous sponsorship you will receive credit
in the liner notes under your song (forever tying you to zero8 and
"your song"), 1 complimentary CD and 2 complimentary tickets to
an upcoming zero8 concert (see website for upcoming appearances).

As of September 18, 2008, we are underway with this project
and; therefore, need to hear from you.  If you are interested in
helping zero8 with our debut CD, please reply to this email right
away or visit us at http://www.zero8.fm


In harmony,
Max Häggström
Marketing Director, zero8
http://www.zero8.fm

zero8 -- Change The World

Track list

  * California Here I Come (arr. David Wright, Rasmus Krigström)
  * You Don't Know Me (arr. Jim Clancy, Doug Harrington, Emanuel Roll)  ALREADY
SPONSORED
  * Change The World (arr. Joel Bexelius)
  * Midnight Hour (arr. Staffan Paulson)
  * Käraste Bröder: Traditional Swedish drinking song (arr. Håkan Sund)
  * People Get Ready (arr. The Blenders)
  * Peg O' My Heart (arr. Ed Waesche, Bluegrass Student Union)
  * Copacabana (arr. Staffan Paulson)
  * It's Alright (arr. Huey Lewis and the News)
  * All You Need Is Love: performed by Ringmasters (with zero8) (arr. Rasmus
Krigström)

________________________________________________________________________
6. HotShots Update!
     Posted by: "Mitchell Greenberg" mitchcg@... baritone_mitch
     Date: Tue Dec 23, 2008 7:32 am ((PST))

Greetings from HotShots! We'd like to first say congratulations
to all of the other competitors at Nashville, we had a great time
sharing the stage with you and representing the Sunshine District.

Howabout that recent Harmonizer? Great stuff, right? Did ya see
the part that said we are disbanded? Yeah...we did too!

HotShots is still going stong and is far from hanging up our bubble
wrap hats. We currently have a busy Spring 09 show season and are
always looking to share our whimsy and humor with new friends and
chapters across the country.

We HAVE had a personnel change, that rumor is correct. Our bodacious
bass and parody writer, Paul Agnew, has decided to move on to other
endevours. His low tones and high energy has helped us to get to
where we are today and his friendship and creativity will always
be a part of HotShots. He will continue to perform our upcoming
shows with us until we find a replacement.

Which brings us to the next point....anyone know a good bass that
looks exactly like Paul's puppet?  Yes, we are officially seeking a
Bass in the Florida or Northern Cuba area. The ideal candidate must
love to have fun, sing well and be prepared to have lettuce thrown
at you ( and that's just at our coaching sessions with Cindy).

Hey Mark Paul from Reveille...now is your chance to move to Florida
30 years earlier than expected to be part of another stellar comedy
quartet....call me!

Anyway, HotShots would like to also thank our coaches Cindy Hansen
and Don Barnick for their wise council and editing skills and we
look forward to many more years of entertaining the Barbershop
world. Thanks for all of your comments and emails regarding our
Riser package and we'll see you all soon on stage!

Happy Holidays!

Mitch, Andrew and James
HotShots
561.926.0020
http://www.4hotshots.com

Hello all,                I am looking for learning tracks for Lullabye,
Goodnight my Angel (Billy Joel) Kirk Young arrangement. I have checked the
usual sources and cannot find one. Does anyone know of a learning file of
this, and if so, please respond. Thanks!!

Craig Brown
Show Chairman, Memphis Men of Harmony
Lead, Five 'n Dime Quartet

"Ringing Chords, changing lives......"
The Memphis Men of Harmony Chorus
www.myspace.com/cottonbollchorus


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

________________________________________________________________________
4. Reveille Announcement - Say Hello to Bigtime!
     Posted by: "JHunna1@..." JHunna1@... u370872
     Date: Mon Dec 22, 2008 1:16 pm ((PST))

Hi Harmonetters,

After 9 wonderful years bass singer Mark Paul has decided to leave
Reveille to pursue other interests. Its been a great run and we
thank Mark for all the wonderful memories and wish him well in
his future projects.

The rest of us wanted to move forward with the group, continuing
the entertainment legacy established by Roger Payne of keeping
hip, entertaining material alive, with more than a little comedy
thrown in.

After a long and ambitious search we are delighted to announce
that Chris Arnold has agreed to join the group. Chris is a hugely
talented bass singer, musician, performer, chorus director and
Music judge, and joins a lineup that now includes 3 BHS judges -
one in each category, and, uh, Fern :-)

Just kidding - our tenor Fern Sicilia is also an accomplished
musician, high school music teacher and gifted young performer :-)

Coinciding with Chris joining the group, we have decided to
rebrand/rename the quartet - so even as we retire Reveille, please
welcome  Bigtime!

Bigtime! will continue building upon our current  repertoire,
maintaining a lot of what we have done with Roger Payne's  material,
and we will look to expand our scope with Chris, who is also a
gifted  arranger who is excited to be part of a creative unit
looking to explore new  horizons.

We will also honor all of our current bookings and are looking
to continue Reveille's tradition of being a sought-after and busy
show quartet.

So there you have it -  3 judges, 2 Canadians, 2  BHS chorus
directors and,uh, Fern...

We are looking forward to competing in the spring and (God willing)
returning to the International stage. And have I mentioned that we
would love to  be on your show or work as the faculty at your Youth
in Harmony or Harmony College? We would love to do it - Bigtime!

Happy Holidays Everybody!

Joe Hunter
Proud former Reveille member
Bigtime! Bari

(Forwarding this great post from LOLnet.)

   - Tom A.
-------------------------------------------------------------
Thomas R. Arneberg - tom@... - http://arneberg.com
Design Engineer, Cray Supercomputers, Chippewa Falls, Wisc.
Land O'Lakes District Comm. Officer - http://LOLDistrict.org
Baritone, "CHIPS" Quartet - http://ChipsQuartet.com
-------------------------------------------------------------

----- Forwarded message from "Michael H. McCoy" <mccoymh@...> -----

To: lolnet@yahoogroups.com
From: "Michael H. McCoy" <mccoymh@...>
Date: Fri, 19 Dec 2008 22:36:59 -0600
Subject: [LOLnet] Belated Notice of the Death of Herschel Smith

A former member of the Madison, Wis., Chapter who was better known
as the first baritone and last surviving original member of the
Buffalo Bills has died, according to confirmation just received
from his widow.

Herschel Smith, 84 or 85 years old, of Antigo, Wis., was profiled
in the July/August edition of The Harmonizer (page 18-19) which
marked the 50th anniversary of "The Music Man" and the Buffalo
Bills on Broadway.

Smith had left the original Bills for a job reassignment from
Buffalo to Madison before the Broadway opportunity.  He was
replaced by Dick Grapes, the cover subject of the Harmonizer
issue who left the group before "The Music Man" premiered and
was replaced by Scotty Ward.

Mike Liscum of Madison, who was in the Madison Chapter when
Herschel Smith moved from Buffalo and joined the Chapter, just
got a Christmas card from Arlene Smith with a note confirming
her husband's death.  (Mike was an active member of the Madison
Chapter until earlier this year when he retired.)

She said Herschel was in a care center in Antigo when he died
Aug. 5, about 10 minutes after he had serenaded the nurse who
had delivered his breakfast to his room.  Arlene said a memorial
service was held at Antigo, for which she -- a long-time singer
herself who sang frequently with Herschel -- sang for him a
final time.

She's now in an assisted living facility in Atlanta, near a
daughter, for the winter, and plans to return to Antigo in
the spring.

Herschel and Arlene had homes in both Antigo and Florida,
but they stayed in Antigo last winter for reasons of health.
They had been talking about moving to Madison year-round.

They were profiled in the Antigo Journal in May this way:

| "A long-standing tradition continued at Elcho's Memorial Day
| ceremonies Monday, when Arlene and Herschel Smith stepped to the
| microphone and led the crowd in singing 'The Star-Spangled Banner'.
|
| "The Smiths, summer residents of the Knights Templar Club at Duck
| Lake, have been making beautiful music together for the better
| part of six decades, including a long return engagement for the
| May services at the Elcho and White Lake cemeteries.
|
| "'It's been part of our life', Arlene Smith says. 'It blends in
| with everything we've done'.
|
| "The couple did not sing at the Summit Lake Cemetery this
| year. Herschel, who served in the Marine Corps in World War II,
| sat quietly in his chair while Arlene marched with the American
| Legion Auxiliary.
|
| "But when the Elcho High School marching band struck up the
| opening chords of the national anthem at the Elcho Cemetery,
| the Smiths were ready, and rose to the microphone.
|
| "'Memorial Day is always very special', Mrs. Smith says. 'When I
| get there, it just chokes me up thinking about the people who you
| can no longer talk to and what they have given for their country'.
|
| "The Smiths have sung and performed for decades, including at some
| impressive venues before large crowds. But patriotic occasions-and
| especially Memorial Day-occupy a unique niche.
|
| "'It was very special', Mrs. Smith says. 'Yesterday was special'."

You can read more about Smith and the Madison Chapter's Web tribute
to him at:

   http://www.madison.com/communities/chord/pages/buffalobills

To see the photo which accompanied the Antigo article:

   http://www.antigodailyjournal.com/full.php?id=6094

Mike McCoy
Madison, Wis., Chapter

----- End forwarded message -----

Another barbershopping giant has joined the heavenly chorus.  Please pass
this obit along to anyone you know who may have know Howard.

If you'd like to sign the guestbook, go to this site: 
http://www.qctimes.com/obits/new/?section=profile&id=127774#guestbook
(while holding the control button down).

Amos Glanz
Davenport Chordbuster




I'm sure MOST of you know the following
information...but decided to send it anyway...just to be SURE.  Chuck
Scherz



December, 10, 2008 |
Sign
the Guestbook BANNING, Calif. - Howard Mesecher, 86, passed away on
December 3, 2008, at San Gorgonio Memorial Hospital in Banning, Calif. Howard
was born in Davenport, Iowa, on August 17, 1922. His parents were Roland
Mesecher and Elsie Marie (Koopman). He met and married his wife of 66 years,
Ethel, in Iowa. Howard was a resident of Davenport, Iowa, for 50 years, Fresno,
Calif., for 18 years, and Cherry Valley, Calif., for 18 years. He attended
public school in Iowa and graduated from Davenport High School in 1940. He also
attended Shrivenham American University in England and Kutztown State Teachers
College. He was a sergeant in World War II European Theater and Battle of the
Bulge. Howard was a member of Highland Springs Country Club, Knights of
Columbus, and the Barbershop Harmony Society. He was inducted into the Hall of
Fame for Central States District and Far Western District of the Barbershop
Harmony Society. Howard was also a member of Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic
Church. Howard was a loving husband, father, grandfather, family member, loved
by many friends, and all who worked with him in many activities.


Howard is survived by his wife, Ethel Mesecher, Cherry Valley, Calif.;
sons, Thomas R. Mesecher (Sharon), Casper, Wyo., and Donald J. Mesecher
(Katherine), Vienna, Va.; daughter, Jacquelyn K. Linebarger (David), Tahlequah,
Okla.; daughter-in-law, Peggy Mesecher, College Station, Texas; sister, Ruth B.
Bunten (James), Cherry Valley, Calif.; nine grandchildren; two
step-grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. He
was preceded in death by his parents, Roland and Elsie Marie, daughters, Shirley
Ann, Theresa Jean, and Rosalie Christine, and sister, Lois Hirl.
Services
were Dec. 9 at Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic Church, 157 W. Nicolet,
Banning, Calif. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Harmony Foundation
International Inc., 110 Seventh Ave. N., Suite 200, Nashville, TN
37203.


Suspicious message? There’s an alert for that.  Get your Hotmail® account now.
_________________________________________________________________
Suspicious message? There’s an alert for that.
http://windowslive.com/Explore/hotmail?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_hotmail_acq_broad2_1220\
08

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

________________________________________________________________________
2a. Re: Young People and children becoming members
     Posted by: "The McAlexanders" bradnann@... themcalexanders
     Date: Tue Dec 9, 2008 7:57 pm ((PST))

--- In bbshop@yahoogroups.com, Tom Schleier <fredsdad2001@...> wrote:
> My take on it is that if the child conforms to the norms of the
chorus, then he/she should be allowed to join.

Our experience with this is a lot like Tom's -- It depends on the
individual kid.  Some are ready, some aren't.  The group dynamics of
four at once puts a little bit of a different slant on it, but you
can probably tell by watching them together whether this is a good
thing (like if they help each other learn their music) or not (like
if they chase each other around the room during breaks).

Our son Patrick wanted to join when he was about four, but there was
no way he was ready.

But by the time he was seven he'd had some school choir experience,
could hear the harmony, could read music, and could probably stand
still for most of the rehearsal.  Plus in the car driving home from
international in Nashville that summer (2001), we'd discovered he
could sing pretty much any pitch we asked him to.

A couple weeks later, Brad's chorus director announced that they were
wanting to make a big push to recruit former and new members before
contest, so Brad asked if Patrick might be considered for
membership.  He'd been hanging around the chorus since birth so was
somewhat of a known commodity, although he'd never stood up on the
risers and officially sung with the chorus.

The director said sure, if he could pass the musical audition.  The
board said okay, if he seemed to be mature enough after trying it for
a few rehearsals, and if we agreed to things like buying the extra
costumes he'd need as he grew out of the initial one they'd provide.

He passed the musical audition with flying colors.  I also put him
through my own unofficial audition, because I was skeptical as to
whether he really could hold a harmony part as well as he'd need to.
He passed that one, too.  (Made me cry, darned kid!)

The only concessions to his age were the chair his dad placed to the
side of the risers, with instructions that Patrick was to go sit
there for a few minutes if he got restless, which only happened a few
times the first few months, and the riser stool he stood on in the
second or third row that he'd inherited from a previous younger
member.  I asked that they put him somewhere where he wouldn't draw
attention, because as a barbershopper myself I felt strongly that the
chorus should be about all the members, as a unit, and not just about
one cute kid on the front row.

He's still going strong after 7 years, is now also active in a
competing quartet, and has been busy singing all around the
Indianapolis area with his chorus and quartet this month.  It was an
experiment on our part, and that of the chorus -- I think their
youngest member previously was 10, another second-generation singer,
and he stayed two or three years until he got busier with other
activities -- but it has definitely been a success so far.

And since we get this question fairly often, yes, he does have a lot
of other activities with kids his own age ... boy scouts and school
band and choir to name a few.  He gets lots of time to just be a kid,
too.

Ann McAlexander (and proud dad Brad)
Greater Indianapolis Chapter, Circle City Sound Chorus, BHS (Dad)
Capital City Chorus, SAI (Mom)

________________________________________________________________________
8. 60th Anniversary Thoroughbreds Reunion Show - ala The Boston Shrimp
     Posted by: "Rosalind Frizzell" bostonshrimp@... bostonshrimp
     Date: Tue Dec 9, 2008 7:11 pm ((PST))

Dear Harmonet,

Any visit to The Cardinal District but specifically Louisville
is decidedly a trip back home. Though the weather outside was
'frighteningly cold' the mood inside was decided warm & rich
with the sound of Barbershop chords.

So sit back, relax and listen to a tale of chapters past and
present.  Believe me - you'll recognize the names who took
the stage and sang their hearts out!

Saturday - December 6th, the Louisville Memorial Auditorium
hosted two (count 'em) TWO shows.  My only regret was that my
parents had been there too to see and hear Jim Miller directing
this chorus (of well over 100 members) once more. What a sight
for sore eyes.

Many of you know the strong feelings that my father (Alfred
Severs) had for The Thoroughbreds - then under the direction of
Jim Miller.  Our family repeatedly would travel far and wide
to hear the excitement that generated under Jim's tutelage.
He ran a tight ship, was a World War II veteran and a believer
in selling the song.  My father agreed with all of these Jim
Miller philosophies, so that's why we were continuous supporters
of The Thoroughbred Chorus over those many decades.

Coming to Louisville and attending both of these shows felt like
coming home and sharing that piece of home with my family,
especially my memories of my own Dad.  More than once, I
caught that emotion in my gut and tried to push it back.
In our family Barbershop came first, work second, family
third...and that was that.

Though Jim is much younger than my Dad was, he's still a strong
father-figure for me and for many of us whom attended this
weekend's show.  Here are some of the 'friends & family' events:

Picture a Norman Rockwell - Saturday Evening Post storybook
feel.

"It's Barbershop Harmony Time!" was the opening Thoroughbred
anthem.

Jim Miller directed Danny Boy and Silent Night and you could
feel the excitement in his hands as Jimmy commanded those 100+
barbershoppers.  Wow!  All those contests and shows flashed to
my mind and I was transported in time to all those wonderful
songs and the reaction in the auditorium sensed the same
deja vu.

This show featured both current chorus members and 'reunion'
members' including but not limited to members of several known
quartets that they produced such as...The Citations, Bluegrass
Student Union, Interstate Rivals, Keepsake, Gas House Gang,
Marquis, Revival, Platinum and The Barons, just to mention
a few.  With the resounding magic in their hands, several
directors took their place in front of these men of song and
directed popular barbershop melodies and holiday favorites.

Dave Duncan is the Music Director whom you all know from the
behind the scenes, managing the conventions aka S.P.E.B.S.Q.S.A
competitions both locally & the annual "Society" Internationals
stage productions.

Dave directed several fun and inspirational numbers including
Joe Liles Fun in Just One Lifetime, Disney's Can You Feel the
Love Tonight, the spiritual Mary Did You Know & When I Lift
Up My Head/Lift Up My Heart, patriot favorites God Bless the
USA and Battle Hymn of the Republic and the popular You Raise
Me Up featuring solos by Eric Hunstiger & Jim Smith.

I'll admit, Home on the Range is a very sweet personal favorite
of mine that I ALWAYS love hearing this chorus perform.
Thanks gentlemen.

Bill Myers of Citations/Revival fame directed as well as the
other three surviving Citations members.

I think it was Pat Conroy that directed (Kenny Hatton - who
sang a solo in)Oh Holy Night. Soon afterward, Kenny took the
directorship with What Child Is This.  Jay Hawkins assumed the
helm to Oh Come All Ye Faithful. Little Town of Bethlehem was
guided sweetly by Ken Buckner and Angels We Have Heard On High
was alternately directed by John Zehnder & Dave Hasch.

And what a production this was.  This was a show within a show
as well as the special tributes that featured both Rosemary
Miller during the afternoon show, and later in the evening
the spotlight was on Ken Buckner...much to his surprise!

Those of us who know The Thoroughbreds, know of the loving and
supportive relationship of Jim & Rosemary Miller.  Dave Duncan
said it best when he referred to Jim King Miller having a
'queen' in his wife - Rosemary.  When I witness Jim and
Rosemary, it truly is like looking at a couple of teenaged
sweethearts.  Rosemary has always been there through thick
and thin for Jim and he wouldn't have it any other way.

After the Citations/Interstate Rivals duet (singing Wonderful
World) this is the point in the show when Dave stopped Jim
from exciting the stage.

It was then that we were all witness to a special tribute
to Rosemary and a presentation to her of a sparkling diamond
bracelet.  Jim lifted his hand out to support Rosemary as Jeff
Myers (Bill's son) found Rosemary in the audience and brought
her to Jim's side up on the stage.  Nothing surprises Jimmy
Miller but this certainly brought him and the rest of the
audience to a standing ovation and tears.

Wonderful One, you may know is the song featured in the
movie "Good Morning Viet Nam."  During the Viet Nam war,
The Citations quartet sang for our troops and regularly
included this Louis Armstrong tune in their repertoire.
It is my understanding that the Wonderful One selection was
a favorite of the troops and in keeping with authenticity,
Wonderful One was included in the movie for that reason.
I'd like to think that The Citations is responsible for the
"revival" of bringing Wonderful One back to the masses.  Again,
thank you to the gentlemen of The Citations Quartet.

The Citations added another auspicious member to their
membership on this particular Saturday performance.  Bob
Netherton (Nutzy - as he was affectionately known) passed away a
few years ago, but luckily for us...his daughter Libby took the
tenor position in her father's tenor voice part to the welcome
applause of those of us who were lucky to witness the event.

Not only did Libby sing with The Citations on the show (along
side of Interstate Rivals) for Wonderful One but Libby ALSO
sang tenor back stage for a private performance especially
tailored for Jim Miller with the following barbershoppers.

It was a virtual 'who's who' of Thoroughbreds celebrities
singing Citations Classics for and with Jim Miller on Saturday
for a walk down memory lane.  (Later on Sunday evening,
Jim Miller admitted to me that this was one of the special
highlights - along with Rosemary's recognition, that meant so
much to him personally.)

Singing Lead: Jim Miller & Kenny Hatton
        Tenor: Libby Netherton & Dave Hasch
         Bari: Ken Buckner & Danny Burgess
         Bass: Bill Myers;
Also singing in the mix - Todd Buckner.

Citations song sung by the above mentioned includes the
following:

  * I'm Sorry I Answered the Phone
  * Everywhere You Go
  * One of Those Songs
  * You're the One I Care For
  * When the Moon Comes Over the Mountain
  * At the End of the Day With You
  * When the Song and Dance Man Came to Town
  * Just Like a Butterfly...Caught in the Rain.

Oh man, I grew up singing these songs with my Dad's chorus as a
kid and they weren't just 'chestnuts'...they were card carrying,
heart stopping barbershop standards in every sense of the word!
In the old days, when these songs were sung, they were sung
in their entirety.  These were the songs that built up to
a crescendo and you could hardly wait to wale out that tag!
That's MY kind of barbershop.

Sentimental moments were abundant, especially on Saturday
night when Ken Buckner (who traveled with his wife Hollie)
all the way from The Villages in Florida for this show.
Ken was not aware that he was to be presented with the Life
Time Achievement Award.

This presentation took Ken completely by surprise and he was
moved to tears right there on the spot.  It certainly was an
ah-shucks moment for all concerned.  There was a beautiful
statuette with duel thoroughbred horses in bronze and the
announcement of a scholarship fund in Ken's name for future
recipients.  It's a good thing Hollie was there, because I
don't think Ken could have gotten his composure back to sing
for the finale without her love and support.

Of course, every time Kipp (Interstate Rival's tenor
extraordinaire) belted one out of the park...there was Ken
Buckner pronouncing to the world "That's my boy!"  Kipp's kids
were in attendance, Hollie & Ken's son Todd was there, as was
Kipp's bride.  It really was a family affair all 'round.

Later at the afterglow, when Libby Netherton sang Darkness on
the Delta, Will the Circle be Unbroken and I Don't Know Enough
About You...it really felt like my father's spirit must be in
the room too.

The Barons did an audience participation bit where they'd
sing and insert a question in the song for us to answer.
Well, Libby's table and her friends got ALL the answers right
and it was a HOOT !!!  The entire room cried with laughter.
Kipp, too, was proud of his father and could be heard saying
"That's My Dad!!"

We were reminded that not all the Thoroughbreds were in
attendance this day.  Dave brought to our attention that Kenny &
Allen Hatton's father, Dwight Hatton, had recently been taken
ill and was in the hospital instead of on stage with his family.

Mentioned during the show were how many family members and
family combinations were on the risers such as cousins, father
& sons, brothers, and the father/son/grandson combination of
Kenny/Mike and Dwight was slightly adjusted to include Dwight's
great-grandson in Dwight's absence.

Knowing this fact, Dave Duncan called out to the back of the
hall to the front row Loge section and said "Jonathan ...are
you there?"

"Hello" rang a child's clear voice from the back of the
auditorium and it was like hearing the bell sound bright on the
tree in the movie "It's a Wonderful Life."  Everyone applauded
for Jonathan and his great-grandfather Dwight was included
and remembered by one and all.

Jim Millers family, including JJ, Billy and Jim & Rosemary's
daughters were there and of course, Jim's son-in-law, Jay
Hawkins who sung on the show in Interstate Rivals.  It's been
a few years now, and Jay is still swatting that imaginary fly
(which reminds me of the fly in Minneapolis-but that's another
story for another time.)

Cecelia, Lullaby in Ragtime and Roses of Pacardy brought
welcome memories and resounding acknowledgment that not only
were the Interstate Rivals a great quartet 20 years ago (OMG
- am I that old?) but the Rivals are as good if not BETTER
than ever!  I'd have bought their cd during the intermission,
but there weren't any to be sold.

Paul Gilman looks as young as ever and congratulations to the
new groom Joe Connelly.

Dale Fettick and his family were there and I'm glad to report
that Dale looks great.  You gave us a scare Dale, with your
health and I hope you're taking good care of yourself so
that you'll be back up there singing with the guys soon.
Randy Chisholm's family was also in attendance.  It was old
home week for many of us who don't get to see one another as
often as we'd like.  Jan, it was great seeing you again.

Many thanks to Judy & Lee Wolpert who arranged for my show &
afterglow tickets.  They not only took me along to Cunningham's
for a fun dinner in between the two shows, but they let me
sit with them at the afterglow along with Gretchen & W.C.
(To be honest, W.C. and I talked all sports...all the time,
and Gretchen didn't complain once.)  Thanks Gretchen!

Danny Burgess & his father Jim looked like a couple of kids
hanging out together.  It made me feel like a teenager just
LOOKING at them.  The same goes for Jeff Myers and his Dad,
Bill Myers.  Bill Myers probably came the farthest (from
California) but the humor and family spirit was infectious.

Thank you all, for letting me share the family spirit of
Barbershop with you.

Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas and Bless you one and all...

Rosalind Severs-Frizzell

________________________________________________________________________
3. Thoroughbred Bash (Long)
     Posted by: "Carl Taylor" bbshopcarl@... bbshopcarl
     Date: Mon Dec 8, 2008 2:58 pm ((PST))

I hesitate to begin this post because I know I'll forget something
that I wanted to say about the wonderful weekend in Louisville. The
T'breds celebrated, and I do mean CELEBRATED, their 60th anniversary
with a huge weekend of singing, fellowship, and fun. All previous
members and Gold Medal Quartets with any connection were invited to
participate, and many did so.

It all got started with a rehearsal on Friday evening and we all
recognized right away that there was a special feeling in the air and
that we were all in for a very special treat. Director Dave Duncan
and all his crew had everything planned to the most minute detail and
it showed from the first stage call to the finale on Saturday night.

The Saturday matinee at venerable old Memorial Auditorium was well-
attended and the crowd was lively. The opening set was directed by
several previous T'Bred directors including Ken Buckner, Ken Hatton,
Jay Hawkins, John Zender, Dave Hash, Bill Myers, Dave Duncan, and, of
course, the Man Himself, Jim Miller. The tears began to flow as we
sang DANNY BOY and they really haven't stopped yet, at least for me.
The "reunion chorus" guys then left the stage and the current T'breds
took over, singing several songs and presenting four chapter
quartets. Then the fun began. The three members of the CITATIONS who
are still with us took the stage along with the INTERSTATE RIVALS,
and they were joined by Libby, the daughter of the late Bob Netherton
in singing WHAT A WONDERFUL WORLD. For those of you who may not know
or remember, the stage was graced by the presence and singing of
Libby, Jim Miller, Ken Buckner, and Bill Myers as well as Kipp
Buckner, Joe Connelly, Paul Gilman, and Jay Hawkins. Quite a "who's
who" of luminaries in one row.

The Bluegrass Student Union was introduced and Ken Hatton and Dan
Burgess stepped out to receive the genuine applause for their great
quartet. Then the RIVALS took stage and knocked everyone over with
five very strong selections including one of their great favorites,
CECELIA. To say that they were well received by the appreciative
audience would be a huge understatement.

The emcee then spoke about SECOND EDITION, none of whom were present
due to the distance they now live from Louisville. They still
received a very warm acknowledgement from the audience that still
remembers their great sound and the years of wonderful singing and
entertaining we all enjoyed from that foursome. Finally, the only
senior quartet champion connected with the T-breds was introduced and
the BARONS sang three songs.

The second half of the show consisted of more quartets, more T'bred
singing, and finally the entire compliment of more than 120 men
singing songs of the Christmas story. In addition to the men I have
already listed who own quartet gold medals, we were also honored to
have Dale Fettick, tenor of MARQUIS on stage. Add to that number the
many gold medals represented by several generations of Thoroughbreds,
and it was a performance to be remembered.

Of course the evening didn't end there. The afterglow was a special
time of fun and fellowship. Forgive the personal note, but for my
quartet to have the opportunity to sing a couple of songs with the
RIVALS made the weekend so very special for me. It meant that I stood
beside "Awesome Joe" and got that golden voice in my ear for a few
moments. What great guys!

But it still wasn't over. After finally getting to bed at about 2:00,
up at 7:30 and singing at Ken Buckner's church on Sunday morning, we
were off to the Miller/Hawkins home for more partying and fun. If
there is a more accommodating and considerate family in the
barbershopping world, I don't know who it is. All through the
afternoon, Jim and Rosemary Miller and Kathy and Jay Hawkins greeted
the many guests who dropped in for a time. With a long drive ahead of
me, I left about 2:30, but the people who know and have been touched
by this family kept coming and coming. I met the two lovely daughters
of Randy Chisholm and it occured to me that this describes the kind
of man Jim Miller is. He would never forget to include family members
of his close friends, especially those who still carry the deep
wounds of losing a prince like Randy.

So, although I feel sure I have left out some details that I should
have included, my effort has been to share a bit of the magic of the
weekend with the 'net. Perhaps others who were there will add their
thoughts in the coming days. My strongest thanks goes again to the
great folks of the Thoroughbred Chorus and the wonderful weekend they
provided for all participants and audience members. It was memorable
in every way.

Carl Taylor Lead, The Barons

________________________________________________________________________
4. Barbershopper Help Needed
     Posted by: "Martin Grandahl" martingrandahl@... martingrandahl
     Date: Fri Dec 5, 2008 11:40 pm ((PST))

[this is being sent to the Harmonet as well, so you may receive a
duplicate]

It's getting kind of ridiculous. I have a sort of half-vast* website
going - the Afterglow Lounge. I have tags, barbershop wallpaper, a
forum, and a few surprises still to come.

There was a time that I could keep up on it my own...sort of.  But
there's too much to do now, and I don't have the time that I used to.

So....I'm putting out a call for help. I need help in two main areas:

::: Tags
   1: Tag research
      I need someone to get music/lyrics/copyright info on tags, and
      to contact arrangers for permission to post their tags.
   2: New tags
      Find new tags, research them, and enter them into Finale (I'm
      open on software choice if you have a good argument). Post them
      on the website.

::: Forum
   I want the forum to be a fun social place for barbershoppers. We
currently have the Harmonet and Facebook as hangouts (and some people
on myspace, I believe)....so why do we need a forum?

I'm not trying to replace any of the current places, of course...I
just think there's a couple positives about forums that creates a
niche.....

- Once you join, you're immediately part of the community. There's no
building of a friends network before you can begin being social.
Everyone can join in the conversations.

- People can be individually ignored if they become annoying. If they
become offensive, they can be temporarily or permanently banned.

So I need someone to help me administrate the forum....watch for
abuses and ban spammers....but I also need people to help me promote
the forum and create topics of conversation to keep things active.


This could be a single person, or it could be some young punk that
stays up until 6AM every weekend singing tags that wants to be a part
of the tags, but has no interest in the forum, with a social
non-singer barbershop fan helping on the forum.  :) Ideally, I'd love
having several people helping out on the site.

None of the jobs are difficult or time consuming - and I have things
set up so that very little knowledge is required - everything is
automated, so it's just a matter of filling out forms - no HTML or
anything like that required.


Also, I'd be happy to host barbershop themed wallpapers designed by
other people. And if you have any other ideas on how the Lounge might
grow, I'd love to hear them.  I hate that the site has been so
inactive when it could be such a great resource.  I just need some
help.....I promise it'll even be fun.  :)



Contact me if you have any interest in helping in any of these areas.



* an old director's joke.  He said one night that his "knowledge is
vast....well....half-vast..."  :)


--
Martin Grandahl
theafterglowlounge.org/forum <-- maybe?

________________________________________________________________________
1a. Re: Young People and children becoming members
   Posted by: "MARQUIS652@..." MARQUIS652@... jaybhawkins
   Date: Fri Dec 5, 2008 6:09 am ((PST))

I don't know if there is a Barbershop Harmony Society rule or
regulation on age.

Probably more of a guideline. Hopefully Rick or John from Nashville
will let us all know.

But if they have an adult family member that is going to bring
them to the rehearsal, they should be allowed to join.

My daughter joined SAI at 12 or 13 and her mom was with her each
rehearsal and they still stand in the front row near each other
10 years later.

My son joined when he was 12, so did his cousin. They both had
adult family members (dad, uncle, grand dad) that took them to
every rehearsal or show. They both competed on the International
stage before they could drive.

If you have a local rule, you need to re-think it, if it is a SAI,
BHS or HI rule, they should think about changing it - right now.
It should be a guideline from the headquarters and common sense
at the local chapter level.

Jay Hawkins Bass - Interstate Rivals / Marquis / Four Aces / Great
Honk / etc... former chorus director - Louisville Thoroughbreds /
Bellefontaine, Ohio Loganairre Chapter...

________________________________________________________________________
1b. Re: Young People and children becoming members
   Posted by: "Marti Lovejoy" lovejoymar@... lovejoymar
   Date: Fri Dec 5, 2008 6:17 am ((PST))

On Dec 4, 2008, at 10:13 PM, Joe De Felice wrote:

> I wonder..... no doubt I agree with the sentiment about allowing
> them to join and participate, however, the body politic (in this case
> the Chapter/Chorus) has spoken as expressed in the "corporate
> 'by-laws' " and that aspect must be respected.

There is a common misunderstanding about "rules." The bylaws are set at
the international level and cannot be changed. However, they do not
include any age restrictions.

Each chapter sets its own "standing rules" and that is where age
restrictions may be defined.

Just like schools, we need "permission slips" or other documentation to
protect us (and the child) if they should join.

Marti Lovejoy
Proud Owner of SING which raised $9215 for YSF in 2008
Score Collector for SING (and the site below)
Life Member, Reg 10, TX, USA - 36 years so far
http: //groups.yahoo . com/group/SweetAdelinesScores
lovejoymar @ sbcglobal.net� <--remove spaces from link and edress

________________________________________________________________________
1c. Re: Young People and children becoming members
   Posted by: "Bill Byrd" wlbyrd@... croon_musicsinatra
   Date: Fri Dec 5, 2008 6:45 am ((PST))

Speaking as a guy that was introduced to Barbershop at a young age, I was
six when I first herd chords ringing, and quartets singing (In my own living
room yet). At that age I was not yet ready to join, but by age 11 or 12 I
was ready. I was required to wait until I was 15, There was a chapter "rule"
about it. I felt that It was not a great decision, However, My love of the
art form endured. I have a friend that joined at age 6, and now over 30
years later he is still going strong, Directing a great chapter, singing in
various quartets, (Making the finals at district) and a certified judge. If
the persons involved, (notice I did not say children) are emotionally ready,
and can deal with the situation (which I think the parents can determine)
then I say let them join. Age should be no barrier (just ask the Harrington
family)

Bill Byrd
Barbershopper since '76


________________________________________________________________________
1d. Re: Young People and children becoming members
   Posted by: "Tom Schleier" fredsdad2001@... fredsdad2001
   Date: Fri Dec 5, 2008 8:07 am ((PST))

Hi,

I needed to jump in on this topic.

My take on it is that if the child conforms to the norms of the
chorus, then he/she should be allowed to join.

My son had been attending rehearsals since he was 8, and was allowed
to join the Phoenicians at 10. We were holding an AFA in a mall,
and after all visitors had gone through the audition process,
I asked Fraser Brown if my son Dusty could do a practice audition
so he would know what the process was. Fraser consented and about
10 minutes later Fraser and Dusty came out and Fraser said "He
passed the darn thing. What do we do now?" I said "Will you take
a check for his dues?" Some short time later, the board consented
to let him join, because he conformed to the norms of the chapter.

What I mean by that is he was attentive to the director, didn't
fidget on the risers, didn't talk, didn't walk around, and learned
music and SP at a pace consistent with the rest of the chapter.

A little while later, Matt Steinkamp joined at about the same
age and he was also a real asset to the chorus, and went on to
choreograph some of the Phoenicians contest songs, and was a great
member of the visual team. We had other young boys that did not fit
that mold, although they were the same age or older. Their parents
were counseled, and the children subsequently left. Others became
riser rats just like Dusty and Matt.

So if they can sing it, let them bring it.
But if they don't fit, they must quit.

Thanks,

Tom Schleier - Bari
South Bay Coastliners

________________________________________________________________________
1e. Re: Young People and children becoming members
   Posted by: "Michael Baribeau" michaelbaribeau@... michaelbaribeau
   Date: Fri Dec 5, 2008 9:01 am ((PST))

Don't they only have to become dues paying members if they compete?
Maybe they can rehearse and sing for concerts or special events as
non-members and not for competition until they are of "high school
age" (14?) when they can join?

Michael Baribeau
Troubadour Editor
http://PioneerDistrict.org

________________________________________________________________________
1f. Re: Young People and children becoming members
   Posted by: "dlcrandall2" dlcrandall2@... dlcrandall2
   Date: Fri Dec 5, 2008 9:46 am ((PST))

Absolutely keep them involved in some way with the chapter, even if
they can't join. Have them become a quartet within the Young Women in
Harmony Program, or see if they can go to a Harmony Explosion type camp
if there is one available they can get to. Both BHS & SAI have
specific programs to encourage kids to get involved.

It really depends on the child in question as to whether they will be
capable of staying focused during rehearsal times, and following
the "adult" rules...but you would have to modify your chorus by-laws in
order for them to join as long as there are no international age limits.

Our youngest member currently started at 13, but she was around before
that. My husband's chorus has two young boys that sing with them (10 -
12 ish) one does great and can really focus, and the other figits, gets
off the risers and sits all the time or moves around on the risers - it
is obvious he is distracted and can't keep focus - it can be very
distracting. One is a regular member, the other comes and sings
periodically - I think you can figure out which is which. So I can see
the concern of certain members.

So definately encourage their love of barbershop harmony however you
can, even if right now might not be the best time for them to be in
the "adult" chorus.

Deena Crandall
Lead, Pride of Portland Chorus
Region 24, SAI
Placed 9th in Hawaii!
Baritone, Harmony of the Gorge Chorus
Region 24, SAI


________________________________________________________________________
1g. Re: Young People and children becoming members
   Posted by: "Jamie Bedford" jrbedford@... jrb3222
   Date: Fri Dec 5, 2008 12:37 pm ((PST))

This is the approach that I believe people should take on this. If
they're ready, let them play. If not, then not. There are going to
be older gents who can't play well with others, and age doesn't
directly affect this.  Whether or not a person is "ready" should
be filtered first by the parents/guardians, then by the audition
process... it will be obvious to an observant director whether a
particular person will cause problems regardless of age. Hopefully
the director can keep an open mind about it, though, and not pass
judgement based on age (or anything else as silly as that).

We should apply this reasoning to other things, too, like
licenses to drive and other such things. If only we had the
infrastructure! :)

Jamie


________________________________________________________________________
1h. Re: Young People and children becoming members
   Posted by: "Holly Harrington" studiodhholly@... hollyh2001
   Date: Fri Dec 5, 2008 12:41 pm ((PST))

Hi Bianca!

I have first hand experience with being a director and having pre-
teens in the chorus. I hope that my story with help you and others who
may have questions and/or concerns about youth in a barbershop chorus.

Both of my daughters (Lena at age 3 and Sylvia at age 6) joined SAI as
members of Chapter-At-Large or CAL, (female counterpart of the Frank
Thorne Chapter) in Dec. of 2007 because they both LOVE to sing music
in the barbershop style - they love to harmonize!! I was a little
apprehensive about having them join Sweet Adelines International
through joining my chorus as I was not sure if the chorus would accept
them at these young ages -- well below the age requirements in the
chapter standing rules. FYI-Sweet Adelines International does not have
an age requirement to become a member of the organization. It is up to
each chorus to set the guidelines they deem necessary.

In Dec. of 2007, Sylvia really wanted to sing and compete, so she put
together a quartet (www.paperdollsquartet.com) and competed in the
Region #4 quartet contest in early April of 2008 as a member of CAL.
After having done this, the chorus was eager to have her join the
chorus realizing that if she could compete in a quartet, then she was
indeed ready to join the chorus! They wanted her as an equal singing
member of the chorus - they were excited and so was she! She passed
her chorus audition in late April of 2008 and was voted in that same
night! The chorus standing rules at the time were amended to allow
women of "all ages" eligible as long as they passed the audition and
were able to function in the chorus setting, pay dues, have a guardian
present, etc.

We eased Sylvia into the chorus/riser experience when she first joined
SAI back in December - started with having her join for warm-ups, then
worked up to being involved in the first hour of rehearsal and
eventually up to 2 hours of rehearsal experience. As I was the
director of the chorus at that time (we have relocated from Ohio to
Oregon since then), my husband, David, would attend rehearsals to be
her guardian and then take her home at 9pm so she would get to bed at
a reasonable "barbershop hour." <wink>. Her aunt, my sister Tawni, was
also in the chorus so that was another "eye" to help out. I never
suggested that she join the chorus during that time, but rather had
her attend to get her used to it and to let her decide if she really
liked it. This also allowed the opportunity for the chorus to "test
drive" the risers with a little gal on it. It wasn't until after
contest that both Sylvia and the chorus were ready to take the "leap"
together. Lena who is now 4 is still not ready to be able to focus on
the risers, but she can harmonize and wants to sing the chorus. So,
when she's able to focus more, we'll start to ease her into it as well.

Now, it does take a little extra effort on the chorus' and parent's/
guardiaart-formn's part, but is so worth it for any child who LOVES
this art-form. For example, as the director, I made sure that I kept
rehearsals moving and changed up activities about every 20 minutes.
However, I found out quickly that this format works better for adults
anyway! After all, we barbershoppers are all big kids at heart and we
want to "play" in our hobby, too! It was also interesting to observe
how the adults needed more riser etiquette reminders than the children
needed. The awesome ladies in the Hocking Valley Chorus (HVC)
supported Sylvia and the other youth in our chorus. They loved having
the children's energy and spirit around. There were unfortunately a
few members - you'll always have those "few" - who were afraid that
letting children join the chorus would take away from "their" hobby
and their "adult night" out. However, as we all know, barbershop is
and has always been a family oriented hobby. That's how my husband and
I started out - as kids who were accepted and encouraged to enjoy the
barbershop art-form. HVC decided that promoting youth and staying
focused on SAI's motto (...committed to advancing the musical art-form
of barbershop harmony....) was what it wanted to do. The chorus
ultimately lost those few fearful members, but it gained so much more!

Stay focused on the positive for sure. Have your chorus be an integral
part of implementing the goals of the organization. Educate the nay-
sayers, but be wary of giving them too much of your time and energy
'cause one squeaky negative wheel, can zap and whole chorus. Be a
louder, positive squeaky wheel. Embrace the youth and find creative
ways to reach out and be all inclusive to singers of all ages - from 3
to 103! In order to preserve this art-form we MUST continue to
encourage all singers � all ages!

Holly Harrington
SAI, Region #24, CAL
Former member of Region #4
Former Director - Hocking Valley Chorus


________________________________________________________________________
4. re.Young People and children becoming members
   Posted by: "Lori Ludlum" lludlum@... loriludlum
   Date: Fri Dec 5, 2008 8:02 pm ((PST))

We have 4 under 18 in the chorus - they are now 11, 12 14 and 17.
they all started 2/3 years ago. Each chorus makes their own "rules'
concerning taking in children. I am an experienced Sweet Adeline and I
started this chorus 6 years ago.  I wanted to take in youth, and the
rest of the members agreed. It is important that they have someone
that is responsible for each. We've had no problems at all, except in
contest, where their voices do not blend well with the adults. We were
willing to take that. We'd rather be giving them the experience. They
have gotten much better in the 2/3 years they have been in. So to me,
the most important thing is that all members of the chorus are open to
having the young ones in.

Lori Ludlum - Director - Sounds of Liberty Chorus, SPEBSQSA/BHS
2008 Atlantic Division Most Improved and First Place AA Plateau
www.soundsofliberty.org
Director - Shades of Harmony Chorus SAI
www.shadesofharmony.org
lludlum@...

________________________________________________________________________
5a. Young People and children becoming members
     Posted by: "biancasmochachinos" biancasmochachinos@...
biancasmochachinos
     Date: Thu Dec 4, 2008 2:33 pm ((PST))

Hello All,

I am the director of a prospective Sweet Adeline Chorus the Majestic
Mountain Chorus located in Post Falls, Idaho.

I would like some advice and input regarding young girls becoming
members of a Sweet Adeline chorus.

We currently have 4 young girls one 13, one l2, one 11, and another 8
(they would like to quartet) who are interested in joining our chorus
and we have a variance of opinion regarding this.

The mother of 2 of these girls already belongs (the 11 & 8 year old) I
am the aunt to the 12 year old, and the other is a cousin of the 11 &
8 year old.

My feeling is - that if they have adults willing to be responsible for
them while at our rehearsals and functions, and if they meet all of
our other requirements like auditions, and showmanship standards, dues
as well as abide by all other rules of SAI and our chorus than I see
no issue with them joining, and frankly I welcome them.  I enjoy
having young people around!  I also enjoy spreading my love of Sweet
Adeline's to our youth.

As I said there is a variance of opinions.  Some of our members are
concerned that it will be too chaotic, they feel the children will be
disruptive to our rehearsals and they also do not want to be babysitters.

Our by-laws currently state that membership must be of high school age.
It is my opinion that if we wait til these girls are a little older we
risk losing them as members because once they are teenagers they
become more focused on friends boyfriends etc!

I would appreciate input and advice in this matter!

Thank You!
Bianca Perry
Director
Prospective Majestic Mountain Chorus
SAI Region 13

________________________________________________________________________
5b. Re: Young People and children becoming members
     Posted by: "MARQUIS652@..." MARQUIS652@... jaybhawkins
     Date: Thu Dec 4, 2008 6:03 pm ((PST))

Let them JOIN....

Harrington Brothers, Knudson Brothers, etc...


________________________________________________________________________
5d. Re: Young People and children becoming members
     Posted by: "Joe De Felice" showglowjoe@... showglowjoe
     Date: Thu Dec 4, 2008 8:14 pm ((PST))

I wonder.....  no doubt I agree with the sentiment about allowing
them to join and participate, however, the body politic (in this case
the Chapter/Chorus) has spoken as expressed in the "corporate
'by-laws' " and that aspect must be respected.

It was obviously considered at the time the group was formed.  It may
have been a long time ago and just another formality at this point.
Still, it should be addressed by the group now when an actual case
has arisen, perhaps in a new day, much different than when it was
originated as a "rule".   Seems I recall SAI going thru a similar
thing at one point in its history.  This should be addressed and then
again act accordingly.

Just one man's opinion.
ShowGlow Joe


________________________________________________________________________
5e. Re: Young People and children becoming members
     Posted by: "Bill Kruse" Grandpak35@... grandpak35
     Date: Thu Dec 4, 2008 9:02 pm ((PST))


In the BHS a boy under the age of 18 needs to have a written parents
consent and have that parent or a legal guardian appointed and be
at every meeting that the boy attends.� This will assure that
the boy is covered under our medical insurance and that someone
responsible is always available on his behalf.� I'm not really sure
whether there is an age restriction in the BHS but as a Chapter,
we have always set a limit of 12 years old.

� I would check with Sweet Adelines International and see if
they have any age restrictions.� Also check with your blanket
Insurance policy carrier and see who they cover.� See if they
cover non members.� The reason I suggest this is that you wouldn't
have to accept the young girls as members until you see how they
emotionally fit in with your Chapter.� If they work out, by all
means find a way to have them become members.

� One last comment about young kids.� We had a young kid that
was very interested in our Chorus (7 or 8 ish) who couldn't stay
put on the risers for the long periods of time we are used to.�
He also wanted to talk all the time and was disruptive to the
Director.� We finally had to tell his mother that�we felt�he
was�not mature enough�to practice with us but could sit in the
auditorium and listen while we rehearsed.� We have not seem him
now for about a year.

________________________________________________________________________
7a. Still time to get your $10 Masterworks CDs for Christmas
     Posted by: "Grady Kerr" grady@... barbershopboy
     Date: Thu Dec 4, 2008 5:38 pm ((PST))

As you heard, the AIC is offering the collection of Masterworks Series CDs
for only TEN BUCKS each.

You can still order them through our spiffy new new eCommerce website -
secure and quick - and get them in plenty of time to place under the tree or
as a stocking stuffer.

Visit www.AICGold.com <http://www.aicgold.com/>

Ladies - here's your chance to get that champ of yours a great gift of great
barbershop.

For example - How's this for samples of great songs you can find on these
CDs?:

1983 Side Street Ramblers - 1927 Kansas City
1982 Classic Collection - Nobody Knows What a Red Head Mama Can Do
1977 Most Happy Fellows - When Your Hair Has Turned to Silver
1976 Innsiders - Poisoning Pigeons In The Park
1974 Regents - Time Was
1972 Golden Staters - Gotta Be On My Way
1971 Gentlemen's Agreement - Back In The Old Routine (with Glenn Van Tassell)
1970 Oriole Four - Danny Boy (with Freddie King)
1969 Mark IV - I'd Give A Million Tomorrows
1968 Western Continentals - Gonna Build A Mountain
1967 Four Statesmen - Preacher And The Bear
1966 Auto Towners - In My Brand New Automobile (with Glenn Van Tassell)
1965 Four Renegades - Last Night Was The End Of The World (with Buzz Haeger)
1964 Sidewinders - Chattanooga Shoeshine Boy
1961 Suntones - Bye Bye Blues
1954 The Orphans - Wait 'Til The Sun Shines Nellie (from the Ed Sullivan
   Show - LIVE)

A Double CD of the 1950 Buffalo Bills with Lida Rose.

The ALL THE BEST collections have champs and songs like:

Boston Common - From the First Hello (to the Last Goodbye)
Gentlemen's Agreement - My Love is Like a Red Red Rose
Buffalo Bills - My Honey's Lovin' Arms
Keepsake - Once Upon a Time
Dealer's Choice - Love Letters Straight From Your Heart
Four Renegades - Mr. Bassman
Suntones - Show Me Where the Good Times

Take advantage of our Seasonal Web Discount. Our new special
price of ONLY $10 for each single Masterworks CD is effective
until December 31, 2008

Very Special Offer

You can now even order this ENTIRE historic collection here. There
are 610 songs by 22 gold medal champions. If you want the COMPLETE
Masterworks Series Collection (what a great gift for the die-hard
barbershopper), a $370 value, it now cost only $270 with FREE
shipping.

Order soon to guarantee these make it to your house in time for
Christmas Day.

Happy, Harmonious Holidays from YOUR fans in the AIC.

From: dland129 <barbershoponyoutube@...>

Hi everyone,

Many of you have visited my "Barbershop On YouTube" website
(freewebs.com/barbershoponyoutube) during the past several months.
Some of you commented on it to me, speculating that it would be too
difficult to maintain the site properly all by myself. Because of the
nature of YouTube and similar sites, new videos pop up and old ones
are taken down every day. I found that this is true; there's no way
for me to make sure that every link on my site leads to a working
video, nor can I hope to keep updating the site indefinitely.

In light of this, I migrated all the content of Barbershop On YouTube
to a new wiki site:

http://barbershopvideos.pbwiki.com/

A wiki is a website in which users collaborate on content. (Wikipedia
is the most prominent example.) By joining Barbershop Videos, you will
be able to edit the website on your own -- to add or remove links to
videos where appropriate, and generally help to maintain the site's
quality level.

Besides the interactive element, Barbershop Videos has a dramatically
improved categorizational structure -- you can browse by quartet or by
song, and the search function is phenomenal. Please check it out and
tell me what you think!

Best,
Daniel Landman

________________________________________________________________________
2a. Dave Stevens-More Than A Hobby
     Posted by: "Spencer, Rick" rspencer@... spebms78
     Date: Tue Dec 2, 2008 6:47 am ((PST))

Sorry for the delayed response to the Dave Stevens topic.  I'm just
finally catching up on my Harmonet reading after a several day
Thanksgiving hiatus.

The message Dave communicates is so important to our barbershop
history (and future).  It has definitely stood the test of time and
needed to be featured in a better light than buried on a website
somewhere or stuck on a VHS tape.

At the same time when Jim Henry delivered his Keynote at HU in
2007 the reaction from the crowd was amazing.  We're talking a
2-3 minute standing ovation and lots and lots of tears!  The idea
came up from many of the students who witnessed both speeches live
to put them together onto one DVD.  So we did!  The DVD is titled
"More Than A Hobby."

This of course has been mentioned on the Harmonet already.  But what
I did not see mentioned was the fact that the Society believes so
strongly in both of these messages that we sent a complimentary copy
to EVERY chapter (for which we had record of a Chapter President)
back in March of this year.  This DVD should be in your chapter's
DVD library and should be shared with the world...or at least all
your chapter members.  Of course, if you want your own personal
copy, it is available from Harmony Marketplace.  (It makes a great
Christmas gift, but I digress.  :-))

So Dave's legacy did not go away, will not go away, and can flourish
again in much higher profile.

Enjoy!

Rick Spencer
Director of Music and Education
110 7th Avenue North
Nashville, TN 37203
800-876-7464
615-313-7619 (Fax)
rspencer@...
www.barbershop.org <blocked::http://www.barbershop.org/>

PS-If you made it to Nashville this summer and toured HQ you probably
got a chance to see my office with a great painting of Dave Stevens
hanging over my desk.  If you didn't make it here, let that be just one
more reason you should come check out HQ.

________________________________________________________________________
2b. Re: Dave Stevens-More Than A Hobby
     Posted by: "Nancy K. Foris" nkfraf@...
     Date: Tue Dec 2, 2008 8:53 am ((PST))

Mr. Spencer, Sir:

A wonderful idea and a credit to the "Powers that Be" who combined
the two "statements" for barbershop consumption! Here's to a
higher profile and all that goes with it.  By the by, thanks too
for allowing "Associate Membership" to those of us who've supported
the Society all these years!  You guys rock!

Nancy Foris, wife, HU student, former employee, former Kenosha Chapter
director

________________________________________________________________________
2d. Re: Dave Stevens-More Than A Hobby
     Posted by: "Charlie Davenport" cdavenport@... bassonlycrd
     Date: Tue Dec 2, 2008 11:46 am ((PST))

Nancy, just so that there are no misunderstandings about terminology,
what has been created by the Society Board of Directors is an
Barbershop Associates program. Limited to women only at a cost of 50%
of our regular dues, it is not a Membership program but rather a
program under which women can support and have a closer tie to the
Society.

To be clear, this is not a "membership" program, but a free standing,
Associate Barbershopper program. It will carry benefits including a
Harmonizer subscription, various discounts and other items developed
over time, but does not include membership in the Society.

This will be available for online enrollment only after the first of
the year, so stay tuned for that announcement.

Thanks in advance for your support on this!

Charlie

Charlie Davenport
Director of Membership and Member Services
Barbershop Harmony Society
110 7th Ave N
Nashville, TN  37203-370
800-876-7464 Ext 4130
615-673-4130 Direct

________________________________________________________________________
6a. Stephen Wilde Joins VOCE
     Posted by: "Giallombardo" GSBMedalMusic@... goldmedl
     Date: Mon Dec 1, 2008 4:06 pm ((PST))

Stephen Wilde Joins VOCE

NEW YORK, NY, November 29, 2008:  International
Quartet Champion Stephen Wilde is the new tenor
singer of the vocal group, VOCE.

Original tenor Joel Beets recently resigned from the foursome.
According to baritone Paul Harris, “We had a great run and won
the Illinois District Championship with Joel.  We wish him the
best in his future endeavors.”

Hailing from Pittsburgh, PA, in the Johnny Appleseed District,
Stephen Wilde won the 1994 International Quartet Championship at
home as the tenor of JOKER’S WILD.  With his arrival, VOCE now has
two gold medalists in the ensemble, as bass Jay Giallombardo won the
Quartet Championship in 1979 with the very popular GRANDMA’S BOYS.

Stephen brings a wealth of education and experience to VOCE,
as he holds two Graduate Degrees in Acting; a Master of Fine
Arts from Carnegie Mellon, and a Graduate Degree from The Moscow
Art Theatre School in Russia.  He is a professional actor/singer
living in the Upper East Side of New York City, not far from where
lead singer, Keith Harris, a professional opera singer, resides
(he’s on the Upper West Side).  Paul Harris, from Madison WI,
rounds out the 4-some. Paul has the unique ability of singing both
tenor and baritone. Keith and Paul sang with FREEFALL, the 1997
International Collegiate Quartet Champions.

Stephen is a member of the Manhattan, NY chapter (the BIG APPLE
CHORUS).  He is a founder and Managing Partner of NAKED VOICE
RECORDS, LLC, which distributes the contest recordings of the
Barbershop Harmony Society worldwide through more than 50 vendors,
including Apple’s ubiquitous iTunes Store. Professionally,
Stephen Wilde has been seen on and off Broadway in many hit plays
and musicals, and was part of the Music Man Touring company with
lead parts in the show.

   Here is the current performance schedule for VOCE:

   March 7, 2009 - The Villages, FL
   March 8, 2009 – Sarasota, FL
   April 18, 2009 – Appleton, WI
   April 25, 2009 - Green Bay, WI
   May 1-3, 2009 – Land O Lakes Preliminary Competition, Stevens Point, WI
   July 1-5, 2009 - Barbershop Harmony Society
International Competition, Anaheim, CA
   November 14, 2009 – Rock Valley Chapter, Janesville, WI

   VOCE is currently accepting performance requests.
   Inquiries may be submitted at www.vocequartet.com

   For more information:
   VOCE:  www.vocequartet.com
   NAKED VOICE RECORDS: www.nakedvoicerecords.com

________________________________________________________________________
6b. Re: Stephen Wilde Joins VOCE
     Posted by: "Neil Dingle Jr." ndinglebac@... ndinglebac
     Date: Mon Dec 1, 2008 6:21 pm ((PST))


How funny is that --  I just called Stephen earlier today to see
if he was interested in singing in a quartet with me.  LOL  In
the immortal words of Maxwell Smart -- Missed it by (-----)
that much...  ;-)

Good Luck goes out to VOCE and Stephen!!!

Da Real Pookie...

________________________________________________________________________
2a. Re: GHG Lyrics for Will Tell Overture
     Posted by: "bucknerx4" tenor@... bucknerx4
     Date: Mon Dec 1, 2008 5:38 am ((PST))

Jay G did the version Grandmas Boys did.

When the Gas House Gang wanted to learn it Jay told us it was not
available and said that if we wanted to do our own arrangement, that
was fine with him. Jim Henry did the GHG arrangement (which is very
similar due to the fact there is not much you can change on a
classical piece) and Jim and Rich Knight wrote the words together.

I was not in the qtet when this took place but I have heard them
talk about it. I do not think Neil F had anything to do with this
one but DID do the lyrics to Eine and Beethoven 5.1.

Kipp



--- In bbshop@yahoogroups.com, "Richard Word" <rickword@...> wrote:
>
> I hate inaccuaracy, so I have to correct myself on my own comment.
> John Miller had already left Grandmas Boys at the time they sang
WTO
> (William Tell Overture).
> That was Randy Loos who replaced him so admirably and made their
last
> album which contained this song. It premiered at the AIC show in
1981
> in Detroit. John did enough praise worthy things without me
wrongly
> crediting him for someone elses' work! Sorry, Randy!
> Rick Word
> Atlanta
>
> --- In bbshop@yahoogroups.com, "Richard Word" <rickword@> wrote:
> >
> > Actually, Travis, you are partially right. William Tell WAS
> arranged
> > by Jay G! It just wasn't for Gas House Gang. It was for his own
> gold
> > medal quartet, Grandmas Boys (Jay Gialombardo, Hank Brandt, Don
> > Barnick, and John Miller) quite a few years earlier. Actually,
I'm
> a
> > bit vague on this, but I think I remember that I liked his
lyrics
> > better than those of the more recent arrangement.
> > Rick Word
> > Atlanta
> >
> > --- In bbshop@yahoogroups.com, "Travis Murray" <travis@> wrote:
> > >
> > > Hmmmmm...I thought that was the case for Eine Kleine NOT
Musik,
> but
> > > thought William Tell was Jay G.  I stand corrected.
> > >
> > > Travis Murray
> > > Bari - Nightcap
> > > http://www.nightcapquartet.com

________________________________________________________________________
3. Northwest Vocal Project - Director Search
     Posted by: "Ian Kelly" iankelly109@... iankelly109
     Date: Mon Dec 1, 2008 6:34 am ((PST))

On November 24, 2008, Donny Rose announced that will step down
as the Director of the young, energetic and amazing youthful a
cappella chorus, Northwest Vocal Project.  He will be an integral
part of the team that finds a replacement and will help to insure a
smooth transition as the new director takes over the job.  He is
also willing to serve as a coach when asked to do so.

This Chorus draws members from Northern Washington State and
Canada all the way to Northern Oregon.and even has commuters from
California.  They have amazing energy and a real camaraderie that
manifests itself in pre and post rehearsal activities from game
playing to simply having fun together.  This is a key element as
they enjoy one another's company whenever they get together.

The chorus focuses on high energy, quality singing.  They recently
finished 3rd in the most recent Evergreen District Chorus Contest
in Boise, Idaho and won their division at last year's Mid-Winter
Convention in San Antonio, Texas. They are currently planning on
competing at the Mid-Winter Barbershop Harmony Society Convention
in Pasadena, California in January, 2009.

The Northwest Vocal Project is looking for a director with the following
characteristics:

   * Some experience directing groups.possibly in this art form.
   * The ability to motivate the membership to be all they can be
   * A vision for the future that matches the goals of NVP
   * A personality that fits in with this group.
   * A willingness to learn and grow along with the membership.

The  Northwest Vocal Project is accepting formal applications from now until
December 8th.

Please send a cover letter explaining your interest and a resume to the
following:

   * Michael Kelly (President of NVP)- redmondmak@yahoo. com
   * Donny Rose (current Director of NVP) - purfling@aol. com
   * Ben Smurthwaite (Music Vice President of NVP) - benjaminsmurthwaite
@yahoo.com
   * Barry Knott (Director Search Team Member) - dabear07@comcast. net
   * Sam Booth (one of the founders of NVP) - gresemonkey963@ hotmail.com

If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact my by phone or
e-mail.

Barry

Barry Knott
Certified Contest Administrator
Baritone, Silver Chords
2006 International 5th Place Senior Quartet Medalists
2005 EVG District Senior Quartet Champions
BMAL/Chorus Manager, Bellevue NW Sound
Standing Ovation Program Reviewer, EVG District
dabear07@comcast. net
360-925-6456 home / 360-653-4566 work / 206-930-2295 cell

________________________________________________________________________
From: Steve Salamin <sc.salamin@...>
To: bbshop@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Friday, November 21, 2008 3:49:29 PM
Subject: [bbshop] Weekly Rehearsal/Meeting Venue & Rent?


Hi, everyone,

I hope this is not too "off-topic" - but I need your help and input.

Our chapter has met and rehearsed at the same location for 30-plus years
now, maybe longer.  It is a big, majestic church, centrally located in a
downtown location in a city with a population of about 30,000.  We have used
their lower level open space, a meeting room/dining room of mediocre
decoration (a walk-out basement finished nicely).  We have 6 to 7 risers set
up weekly.  We use their kitchen for our social/fellowship afterglow weekly,
and occasionally other rooms throughout the facility for section rehearsals.

We are a chapter of about 65 men, which has grown in recent years, doubling
in size since about 2003.  We are a strong chapter and well established,
starting in 1952.  We are prominent in the community and have two annual
shows a year, spring and Christmas.  We perform for about a dozen paid and
unpaid (contributed /charitable) other gigs throughout the year.  We give
annually to other organizations, following our educational and charitable
giving mission.

The church has undergone some major restructuring, finally finding a Senior
pastor last year who is meaning to rock the church community and regain
members and rebuild the church after many years of turmoil and dissention.
The pastor is experienced and has many years himself as a leader/pastor of
several other successful churches.  Slowly, we have been squeezed in various
areas.  For example, we have seven risers, with railings, chairs and 2
carts.  For years, they were stored in the space we use, against a wall,
along with two locking, lateral, 4-drawer file cabinets.  We might have a
few scattered items stored nearby, as well.  We also used the space
exclusively - that is, there was never any problem using any of the
space(s).

Last year, we were told they have no room for the 2 carts of risers.  They
wanted the file cabinets out of the room.  And there is no storage space
available for us any longer.  Furthermore, they now have requested that we
not disturb the space if some other physical layout is established - meaning
some weeks we can't set up the risers or move arranged tables and chairs.
Rooms that were available to use for section rehearsals are now either not
available - and for good reason, as they are being used otherwise by the
church at the same time.  But some rooms and equipment is no longer
available to us.

We have never "paid" a fee to use the church.  We have never been asked.
We have never offered.   They were happy with us and we with them - and VERY
grateful.   Once a year, usually in the summer, we have sung for their main
Sunday service while their chorus is on vacation.  On occasion, we have also
given the church special donations to help with projects or their music
fund, when there was a special need - and we would respond - without being
asked.

This year, we agreed to have a benefit concert at the church.  We raised
$900 through a free-will offering which we had to request of the audience
(and including chapter members and the chapter) - and with no advertising or
promotion otherwise - at a time we usually are using for Contest prep.  The
church did nothing to assist, though we used the sanctuary for the concert.

I realize these are harder times - and heat and electricity do not come
free.  The church recently met with members of our Board and basically
requested $2000 a year from us in order to use the facilities.  How we raise
and pay the $2000 is up to us - they are suggesting two concerts a year.  I
am not sure if our schedule (and our men) can manage two concerts a year
that might bring in the $2000 total.  If we fall short on the
two-benefit- concert amount, we would still need to provide the full $2000
yearly.  We have stated that we will NOT raise chapter dues, or ask our men
to contribute, or specifically divert annual community funding, to
compensate this church for rent.

Chapter members who are parishioners at the church?  They believe this
arrangement stinks - and the church is, indeed, squeezing us out.  After 30+
years... and, until recently, all mutually beneficial for both
organizations.

Sorry for this long explanation.

I'd like to get a feel for how other chapters, about our size, deal with
these relationships.  I was wondering how many other chapters are paying to
use a facility for weekly meetings and rehearsals.  What accommodations are
allowed you?  How many chapters are allowed free use of a community
facility?  What do you do, in lieu of paying "rent"??

We are an active community partner and this is really astounding us - - -
that now, we need to divert fund-raising dollars in order to rent a
community facility weekly.

What's your take?  How does this work in your chapter?

I am grateful for your reply, and offline/off- group is probably best.
Thanks!  ~ Steve

________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
5a. Re: Weekly Rehearsal/Meeting Venue & Rent?
     Posted by: "Doc Dockendorf" docsluck@... docsluck
     Date: Mon Nov 24, 2008 11:37 am ((PST))

Steve,

Our chapter has been very fortunate, as we also sing in a local
church with no rent.  The former Pastor used to sing in our chorus,
and insisted that we not pay anything because our use of the church
meeting room was part of their Community service.

I had observed, however, that over the years, other choruses had
experienced situations that you are now seeing, and I recommended
that we give the church $500 per year to help out with their
heating, and lighting costs.  We also donated $400 to help pay
for new cushioned chairs and tables (which benefited us as well).

We consider ourselves lucky that we have several members that
have held or are holding significant jobs with the church.
We are allowed to store our risers, and a music file cabinet in
our rehearsal room, though recently we have been squeezed somewhat
as to space.

Good luck,
Doc

________________________________________________________________________

Posted by: "Barry Knott" dabear07@... barrythebari
Date: Sat Nov 22, 2008 11:16 pm ((PST))

Gentlemen,

There will be more information coming in the next few days, but here
is the order of appearance for International in Anaheim in July.
The chorus contest is in two sessions of Friday, July 3rd.

Session 1

MT - Independence, MO

1. Salem, OR
2. Nashville, TN
3. Greater Toronto Mega City Chorus
4. Bristol, England (BABBS)
5. Providence, RI
6. Tampa
7. Dallas Metro (VM)
8. Northbrook, Illinois
9. Denver, CO
10. Elizabeth Town, KY
11. Greater Phoenix
12. Alexandria, VA
13. Minneapolis
14. Heart of Texas
15. Hilltop, MN

Session 2

MT - Honolulu

1. Toronto Northern Lights
2. Greendale, WI
3. Bellevue NW Sound
4. Batavia, NY
5. Stockholm, Sweeden
6. Mt. Pleasant
7. Wellington, NZ
8. Western Hills, Cincinnati
9. Atlanta Metro
10. Bay Area
11. St. Charles, MO (A of H)
12. Wasatch Front
13. Greater Central, OH (Alliance)
14. Bloomington, Illinois


Barry Knott
Certified Contest Administrator
Baritone, Silver Chords
2006 International 5th Place Senior Quartet Medalists
2005 EVG District Senior Quartet Champions
BMAL/Chorus Manager, Bellevue NW Sound
Standing Ovation Program Reviewer, EVG District
dabear07@...
360-925-6456 home / 360-653-4566 work / 206-930-2295 cell

________________________________________________________________________
1a. Re: Virtual coaching? Has anyone tried it?
     Posted by: "John Hosie" john_hosie@... john_hosie
     Date: Fri Nov 21, 2008 4:50 am ((PST))

Tried virtual coaching? Yes.

A couple of people have video taped us and put us out on YouTube. So
when the invite came, I pointed those videos out. I got a very
nice write-up on what was there and suggestions on what to do about
problem areas. None were really a surprise. I don't know how things
would work long-term. Biggest problem I have is getting the guys
to believe what I tell them and act on it.

I think the personal touch makes a difference. If you know the guy
there in front of you there right now is going to see you again
in a couple of weeks or so, you're more likely to do something
about it. A not-so-good coach in person is better than a virtual
expert. But that is just my personal opinion. You can take it for
what it is worth ( or isn't ).

Sincerely, John W. Hosie III

________________________________________________________________________
3a. Virtual coaching - We've tried it.
     Posted by: "Denis Laflamme" laflamme.denis@... denis_laflamme
     Date: Fri Nov 21, 2008 7:38 am ((PST))

Hey gang,

we've had the fortunate pleasure of Tom Metzger's coaching in person
AND through the internet.

of course a live coaching session is better. I agree and support
everything Rob says below.

For a little perspective. We currently sing in the low/mid 70-s and
are aspiring to qualify at Prelims next Spring. We will be using this
process again, with Tom, to "keep us honest". Some will argue, why not
just send a DVD or post a performance on Youtube. Well... they also
work. what they don't do is give you live feedback that you can apply
right away and it's simply faster.

Once you've found your communication convention (one person talks at a
time, and be aware when to stop when the coach wants to say
something...Tom wrote STOP on his hand....funny...) it is a process
that can benefit a LOT of quartets. A simple cost/benefit breakdown
should convince you if you've paid for a few flights... ;-)

I'm not sure we would do more than one hour at a time, but that it
completely subjective to the qtet's situation. One GREAT benefit is
that we can book the session during our normal quartet night (usually
after the warm up) and then can continue working on things immediately
after. My wife really likes that benefit.. since we're a 2 bbshop
night family. ;-)

You DO need a HIGH Speed internet connection and a Computer that can
handle a Webcam. We didn't even use external speakers... We had Tom on
a Mac Laptop (baritone's of course...) on a table 8' away, and he was
on full screen mode. We were using the audio from the laptop and it
was fine. the connection was made through Skype (free) but there are
others...

Bottom line is.... try it. I personally think it's a GREAT tool
enabling high level coaches to reach many different levels of quartets
in the comfort of their home.

Denis
Common Interest
ONT - 2007 District Champs


________________________________________________________________________


Re: [bbshoptech] Virtual coaching? Has anyone tried it?

Posted by: "Rob Sequeira" rob.sequeira@...   rsequeira

Thu Nov 20, 2008 2:43 pm (PST)

G'day!

I sing baritone in a relatively new quartet in the San Francisco Bay
Area. We're called Brewhouse <http://www.brewhousequartet.com/> .

We recently did a coaching session with Tom Metzger from OwningTheStage
<http://owningthestage.com/> . We were physically in San Jose,
California and Tom was somewhere in Canada.

This essentially involved two computers (each with a webcam, microphone
and speakers), internet connections (local connections were WiFi, remote
were broadband), a quartet, a coach and 5 open minds. From a software
perspective, both computers were runing Mac OS X and we used Skype for
the audio and video.

We could hear and see Tom very well. The audio and video sync'd up fine
and there were really no issues there. We recorded the session.

From Tom's side, he could hear and see the quartet quite well (the
bandwidth remained high enough for 85% or more of the session). To give
you an idea of how rich the experience was, we talked about a wide
spectrum of elements including message of the song, overtones, voice
matching, posture, breathing, synchronisation, intent and effect of the
song on the audience.

It was relatively easy to setup. We had a "sound/video check" prior to
the session to make sure it was going to work and then we met up later
for the real deal. It was bonza!

All in all, as long as you have relatively good up-to-date computers
with a broadband connection between the two, I think you could get quite
a lot out of these types of sessions.

Cheers,
Rob


Messages in this topic (2)
________________________________________________________________________
3b. Re: Virtual coaching - We've tried it.
     Posted by: "Jamie Bedford" jrbedford@... jrb3222
     Date: Fri Nov 21, 2008 11:30 am ((PST))

This is a nearly completely off-topic note, but... I wonder what
percentage of quartets' baritones are either the techy of the
foursome, or more specifically the Mac-user of the foursome?
How interesting!

Back on-topic, I agree with what both you and Rob have
said... and not just because Rob and I are in the same quartet.
Virtual coaching is incredibly useful, and I think that if someone
published detailed, easy to understand setup instructions, that many
quartets and even the whole society could benefit.  What a great
opportunity for so many singers to have quality coaching that could
be convenient for them, and what a great opportunity for coaches
to meet with more singers on a schedule that is convenient for them!

Jamie

________________________________________________________________________
1a. Re: Nashville 2008 DVD-Demystified
     Posted by: "Eric Wallen" birdzthwrd@... birdzthwrd
     Date: Tue Nov 18, 2008 5:20 am ((PST))

Thanks Rick for explaining the situation.  Although i understand the
decision, i myself would much rather have more content and wait
alittle longer.  I think the issue was that we were promised DVDs
before the holiday season, and never recevied.  If we were told it
would take much longer because of more content, i speak for myself
and say i would be fine with that. The DVDs last year were amazing!

Not to harp on the topic more, but i was very disappointed about not
1 mention of the college contest.  My quartet was lucky enough to
finish in the top 5 in Nashville, and one of the first things i was
thrilled about, was the chance to be on the DVD this year, as they
had the top 5 on the DVD last year.  Now after this explination i
understand the reasons why they did not place any college quartets on
it.  I also know since Ringermasters was in the top 20, no need to
put them on there again, but another thing i was alittle miffed
about, was not a single mention that they even won the college
contest.  I would have expected atleast alittle mention when it was
their turn in the 20.

Anyways, if we are voting, i vote for more content, later release
date!

Eric Wallen
-Crunch Time
-Last Kids Picked
-Alexandria Harmonizers

________________________________________________________________________
4. The use of video and www.youtube.com to promote Society events...
     Posted by: "Todd Wilson" stixtenor@... acoustix2000
     Date: Mon Nov 17, 2008 9:35 am ((PST))

Want to escape the cold in January? COnsider attending the 2009
Midwinter Convention in Pasadena.

I encourage you to visit www.barbershop.org/midwinter to view a new
video promoting the Society's Midwinter Convention in Pasadena.

The attendee experience should be raised to a new level in 2009 with
16 youth choruses performing in the 2nd Annual International Youth
Chorus Festival, not to mention the Friday and Saturday Night shows
featuring the top five quartets from the 2008 contest, plus the Senior
Quartet Contest, master classes and seminars.

Todd Wilson
Director of Marketing
Barbershop Harmony Society
110 7th Ave. North
Nashville, TN  37203-3704
(615) 673-4136 (Direct Line)
(615) 523-8633 (Private Fax)
www.barbershop.org

________________________________________________________________________
4a. Joe Liles's health
     Posted by: "Tgbari@..." Tgbari@...
     Date: Wed Nov 19, 2008 7:18 am ((PST))

Hello H-Netters,

There is the bad news and the good news.  The bad news is that
Joe Liles had another heart attack on Sunday .  His stents closed
up and caused Joe and his family quite a scare.

The good news is that Joe is recovering nicely.  Though still in the
ICU for another day or two, he is getting around some and is in
good spirits.  He may even be ready to go home in a few short days.

A former executive director and current music publications editor of
the BHS, Joe is beloved by barbershop singers, both men and
women, all over the world.  No doubt he and his more-than-lovely
wife, Kay, would be glad to hear from his countless friends,
acquaintances and any others who would care to send Joe their
best wishes for a full and speedy recovery.

Joe's and Kay's home address:

2915 22nd St.
Kenosha WI 53140
USA

Let's make the mail carrier eat his or her Wheaties, shall we?

Email and e-cards work too:  joelilesmusic@...


Tom Gentry
tgbari@...
http://www.harmonize.ws/tgentry

________________________________________________________________________
3. New Video PSAs available!!
     Posted by: "Todd Wilson" stixtenor@... acoustix2000
     Date: Mon Nov 17, 2008 9:24 am ((PST))

You Asked, We Listened!

Visit the main page of the Society's new website www.barbershop.org to
view a new 60-second video Public Service Announcement (PSA) promoting
membership in the Barbershop Harmony Society. Do yourself a favor and
embed the YouTube code for this video on your chapter's website to
display the benefits of singing barbershop to everyone that pays your
chapter an online visit. A local version that allows you to customize
this video with your chapter's own contact information is also
available. We also have a 30 and 15 second PSA available.

Don't overlook the opportunity to take a high resolution version of
this PSA (and others available) to your local TV and cable
broadcasters to attract more guests to your next meeting. Contact me
if you have any questions about these PSAs.

Todd Wilson
Director of Marketing
Barbershop Harmony Society
110 7th Ave. North
Nashville, TN  37203-3704
(615) 673-4136 (Direct Line)
(615) 523-8633 (Private Fax)
www.barbershop.org

________________________________________________________________________
2a. 2009 Anaheim Chorus Competitors
     Posted by: "Todd Wilson" stixtenor@... acoustix2000
     Date: Mon Nov 17, 2008 9:18 am ((PST))

Is your favorite chorus performing this summer?

The following choruses are scheduled to appear on the International
stage in Anaheim

Mic Testers:

             Aloha Chorus from Hawaii
             Men of Independence, Independence Ohio

District Qualifiers:

             Ambassadors of Harmony- CSD
             Vocal Majority- SWD
             Great Northern Union- LOL
             Voices In Harmony- FWD
             The Northern Lights- ONT
             Sound of the Rockies- RMD
             New Tradition- ILL
             The Alliance Chorus- JAD
             Atlanta Vocal Project- DIX
             Alexandria Harmonizers- MAD
             The Kentucky Vocal Union- CAR
             Salem Senate-Aires- EVG
             Heralds of Harmony- SUN
             Narragansett Bay Chorus- NED
             Mountaintown Singers- PIO
             The Vocal Agenda- SLD

Wild Cards:

             Heart of Texas- SWD
             Southern Gateway Chorus- JAD
             Spirit of Phoenix-  FWD
             Midwest Vocal Express- LOL
             Sound of Illinois- ILL
             Saltaires- RMD
             Music City Chorus- DIX
             MegaCity Chorus- ONT
             Northwest Sound- EVG
             Minneapolis Commodores- LOL

Affiliates:

             Great Western Chorus- BABS
             Zero8- SNOBS
             Vocal FX- NZABS

For more information about attending the International Convention in
Anaheim, visit www.barbershop.org/anaheim.

Todd Wilson
Director of Marketing
Barbershop Harmony Society
110 7th Ave. North
Nashville, TN  37203-3704
(615) 673-4136 (Direct Line)
(615) 523-8633 (Private Fax)
www.barbershop.org

________________________________________________________________________
1a. Nashville 2008 DVD-Demystified
     Posted by: "Spencer, Rick" rspencer@... spebms78
     Date: Mon Nov 17, 2008 7:11 am ((PST))

Hi Everyone-

There have been several questions raised about Nashville 2008 DVD
content this year so I thought I'd chime in and give you some
information about how we came to the decision we did.

There were MANY factors that went into deciding DVD content and format
this year.  First let me give some history.

For several years through 2006, the Society offered two single-layer DVD
products.  One for top 20 choruses and one for top 20 quartets.  These
contained two songs from the medalists and one song for groups 6-20.
Plus some bonus material.  The number of songs typically totaled ~27-28
songs.  These sold for $25 each ($50 for both) and were typically
released in early December and, on several occasions, did not make it to
mailboxes in time for Christmas.  (Boy did we get a lot of complaints
about that!)

In 2007 the Society experimented with offering two DUAL-LAYER (which
holds ~80% more content) DVD products.  One for top 20 choruses and one
for top 20 quartets.  The quartet DVD contained four songs from the
champ quartet, 3 songs from each medalist, and two songs for groups 6-20
plus bonus material.  The number of songs totaled ~50.  The chorus DVD
contained two songs from the top 10 choruses, and one song for groups
11-31 plus some bonus material.  The number of songs totaled ~44.  These
sold for $40 each ($80 for both) and, due to MAJOR licensing hold ups
were not released until February the following year (2008).  (We
definitely heard about the price increase, but especially the release
date!)

When it came time to plan for 2008, several questions came into play
regarding what the member wanted.

1. When do the members want the DVD in their hands?  Answer based
    on past years' member reactions-LONG before the holiday season.
    (FYI-If this year is not the earliest release it is one of the few,
    I can tell you that.)

2. After the 2007 delays, are we willing to take on another TWO
    dual-layer DVD project.  ANSWER-No...too much negative member
    feedback.

3. Should we go back to the two single-layer DVD project or
    offer one dual-layer DVD which offers a similar experience as two
    separate DVDs but will cost the member less?  The decision was
    made to create one dual-layer covering both quartet and chorus.

4. What is more important to show, more groups or more songs?
    That was a hard one to decide on.  In one sense more songs from each
    group is ideal.  With the space limitations even on a dual-layer
    DVD, however, it was not possible.  So should we eliminate the
    "normal" top 20 and make it a top 10?, top 15?, top 5? and put
    more songs on?  (You'll notice we did not include all 28 choruses
    this year...it just had to be that way.)  Or, do we have more
    groups with fewer songs from each group?  The decision was made
    to include more groups with hopes to still be able to offer a
    "Top 20" of each quartet and chorus.

Even leading up to the final cut of the master DVD we were not sure if
we'd be able to fit all of the content on it.  But it worked from a
space standpoint.  So this year you see what it is.  One dual-layer DVD,
the best sampling of the top 20 of each quartet and chorus, bonus
material, totaling 48 tracks...all for $40 and delivered mid-November.

Is it the best formula?  Maybe, maybe not.  Will we do the same thing
next year?  Maybe, maybe not.  We are trying to find the right balance
for the recordings so suggestions are most welcome.

All that said...come to the convention and you'll get to see all of the
performance LIVE.  Something a DVD cannot possibly capture.

Thanks!

Rick Spencer
Director of Music and Education
110 7th Avenue North
Nashville, TN 37203
800-876-7464
615-313-7619 (Fax)
rspencer@...
http://www.barbershop.org

________________________________________________________________________
9. Great coaching anywhere - no airline required
     Posted by: "Tom Metzger" tmetzger@... bassdweller
     Date: Wed Nov 12, 2008 4:06 pm ((PST))

  Owning The Stage introduces *Virtual Coaching*

    - High level coaching just about anywhere, even if there are no high
      level coaches where you live
    - Save ALL the usual expenses - no travel, no lodging, no meals
    - Get exactly as much coaching as you want
    - Coaching available for groups at all levels, from brand new quartets to
      International Champs

"Virtual Coaching" is a service offered only by Owning The
Stage<http://www.owningthestage.com/>.

We deliver effective, high-level coaching to quartets and
individual performers live and in "real time" over the Internet,
using inexpensive technology that you may already have.  It's made
painless and effective by our unique remote coaching methodology.
All you need to join the revolution is a computer with a broadband
connection, a web cam and a microphone.

We've coached many groups from all over the world through the
Internet, and it is proving time and time again to be the best
way to deliver high-level coaching to the people who need it at a
fraction of the cost.  Here's what one recent client said, after a
Virtual Coaching session over a distance of more than 2,000 miles
from the coaching center:

My biggest concern was the sound quality, and if that would impact
the coaching.  During the session, I was thinking how pleasant this
was, and was processing how we could use this a LOT more and get
access to "high level" coaching in the comfort of our own home.
I don't think we would have gotten a noticeably higher level of
coaching if you had been in the room with us.

Here are some of the things we can do for you:

    - High level quartet coaching to get you to your next level
    - Singing lessons
    - Advanced musical interpretation
    - Training for directors and musical and administrative leaders

This is just a sampling of the wide range of classes, coaching
and meetings we can facilitate through our system.  If you have
a particular topic or type of coaching you would like to see
addressed, we are happy to work with you to make sure we personalize
the session to meet your group's unique needs.

As you can see, the dawn of virtual coaching over the Internet
changes everything.  Suddenly geography is a non-issue, and the
real cost of the great coaching you've always wanted has come
way down.  Virtual Coaching is just as effective as coaching in
person, but it's so affordable you could have a high level coach
at every rehearsal.  Now what would that do for your quartet?

Getting started is easy.  Just contact us
<http://www.owningthestage.com/contact> and set up a time.

We look forward to helping your group jump to the next level!

Tom and Kari Metzger and the growing Owning The Stage team

*P.S. We're quickly getting more requests than we can handle,
so if you are a capable and experienced coach and you want to get
involved, we want you!  For more information about how to get on our
coaching staff, contact us<http://www.owningthestage.com/contact> .*

*P.P.S. If you know performers who live outside of the barbershop
hot beds who might benefit from good coaching that they've been
unable to get until now, tell them about it - they will freak out.*

--
Tom Metzger (tom@...)
Husband of Kari, Father of Ry and Ty
    Bass, Realtime a cappella quartet  ->  http://www.realtimequartet.com
        Blogging about performance -> http://www.owningthestage.com

"It's often not enough for one to simply be exposed to the truth,
because the brain will actually fight to defend its attachment to
cherished falsehoods."

________________________________________________________________________
6. NEXUS RETIRES
     Posted by: "sagez@..." sagez@... georged80112
     Date: Wed Nov 12, 2008 1:43 pm ((PST))

Fellow family, friends, and fans:

Since the summer of 2003, NeXus has been blessed to meet new
friends around the world, sing in the best venues, and spend time
with our great barbershop family.  Our travels have taken us
from our own living room, to the hills of Arizona, all across the
Midwest, and as far as the mountains of Anchorage, Alaska.  As
many of you know, our bass singer, Mark Zenk, accepted a position
with his company and made a move to lead a sales team in Shanghai
China.  As well, our lead singer, Ryan Wilson, has been working
with another quartet.  In Colorado Springs this past September,
Ryan´s new quartet, McPhly, won the 2008 Rocky Mountain District
quartet championship.

It comes with great sadness to inform you that NeXus has decided
to retire.  The past five years have been an unbelievable ride,
and those years will be remembered as some of the best of our
lives.  Since the very first chord rang, we have loved every
moment and will greatly miss the chance to sing for you again.

There are many individuals who have made NeXus possible.  We
would like to thank Nate Zenk, our original tenor, and youngest
member ever to win a Rocky Mountain District championship.  His
talents are unrivaled and he helped shape what NeXus was.  Many
thanks also go to Sally Davidson, who could not help but sit on the
steps commenting on how we could become better.  She graciously
gave of her time an d talents, and her efforts fashioned our sound
and look.  Finally, we would be remiss without saying thank you
to Diane Zenk, the greatest Costco enchilada cook of them all.
She was always willing to "feed the boys," and never minded when
we stayed out too long in the hot tub.  A special thanks to our
incredible coaches - Kim Hulbert, Cindy Hansen, Chad and Brandon
Guyton, Darin Drown and Jim Clark.

We thank each and every one of you for supporting NeXus.  We are
sure that you will see us in other groups down the road, but we
sincerely feel blessed to have shared our talents with you over
these past five years.

In harmony,

Michael Davidson, Ryan Wilson, Mark Zenk and George Davidson
NeXus Quartet
2003 RMD Novice Champions
2004 RMD District Champions
2005 & 2006 International Quarter-Finalists
2007 & 2008 International Semi-Finalists
http://www.nexusqt.com