If you've ever visited a traditional barbershop, you might have experienced the melodious tunes of a barbershop quartet while getting a shave. As part of a longstanding tradition, these quartets serenade patrons, creating a distinctive and unparalleled sound.

Having existed for decades in the United States, it's only fitting to celebrate them. National Barbershop Quartet Day is dedicated to expressing gratitude for the art of harmonized singing, delving into its rich history, and ensuring the continuation of this enduring tradition for generations to come.

What is a Barbershop Quartet?

A barbershop quartet is a musical group consisting of four singers who perform a cappella, without instrumental accompaniment. The quartet typically comprises:

• Lead: Sings the melody of the song.
• Tenor: Harmonizes above the lead.
• Baritone: Complements the lead by filling in the harmonies.
• Bass: Provides the lowest harmonizing notes to give depth to the music.

Barbershop music is characterized by its tight, four-part harmonies, close chords, and a ringing sound that often includes "barbershop seventh" chords. The songs are typically simple, sentimental, or humorous and are presented with a distinctive blend of voices that creates a rich and resonant harmony.

History and Origins of National Barber Shop Quartet Day

National Barber Shop Quartet Day is celebrated on April 11th each year to commemorate the founding of the Society for the Preservation and Encouragement of Barber Shop Quartet Singing in America (SPEBSQSA), now known as the Barbershop Harmony Society. The society was founded on April 11, 1938, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, by Owen C. Cash and Rupert I. Hall. These two men were passionate about preserving the barbershop quartet style, which they felt was fading from the American music scene.

Since its inception, the Barbershop Harmony Society has grown significantly, with chapters across the United States and worldwide, promoting barbershop music through competitions, events, and educational programs.

Why Celebrate National Barber Shop Quartet Day?

• To Honor Musical Heritage: Recognize and celebrate the rich tradition of barbershop quartet singing, an essential part of American musical history.
• To Enjoy Barbershop Music: Experience the unique harmonies and vibrant performances that characterize barbershop music, whether live or recorded.
• To Support Barbershop Artists: Encourage appreciation and support for barbershop quartets, both amateur and professional, who keep this musical style alive.

How to Celebrate National Barber Shop Quartet Day

1. Attend a Barbershop Performance: Check for local or virtual performances by barbershop quartets or choruses in your area. Many groups offer concerts or participate in events on this day.
2. Listen to Barbershop Music: Enjoy classic barbershop quartet recordings or discover new groups online through streaming services, YouTube, or the Barbershop Harmony Society’s website.
3. Learn to Sing Barbershop Music: If you love singing, consider joining a local barbershop chorus or quartet. Many communities have groups that welcome new members and offer free or low-cost singing lessons.
4. Host a Barbershop Sing-Along: Gather friends and family for a barbershop sing-along, either in person or virtually, to celebrate the day with music and fun.
5. Share on Social Media: Use the hashtag #NationalBarberShopQuartetDay to share your favorite barbershop music, photos, or videos and spread awareness about this unique musical tradition.

Characteristics of Barbershop Quartet Music

• Close Harmony: Barbershop music is known for its "close harmony," where the four voices sing chords that are tightly spaced and resonate richly.
• Emphasis on Chord Ringing: Singers aim to produce a "ringing" sound, where the harmonics of their voices align perfectly, creating a unique, pleasing effect.
• Simple, Memorable Melodies: The melodies are often straightforward and memorable, making the music accessible and enjoyable for both performers and audiences.
• Storytelling Through Song: Barbershop songs often tell stories, express emotions, or deliver humorous messages, adding to their charm and appeal.

Fun Facts About Barbershop Quartets

• Origins of the Name: The term "barbershop" is believed to have originated from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when men would gather in barbershops to socialize and sing harmonies while waiting for a haircut.
• The Barbershop Revival: The barbershop music style experienced a revival in the 1930s and 1940s, thanks to the founding of the Barbershop Harmony Society and its efforts to preserve the tradition.
• Women in Barbershop: While barbershop singing was traditionally a male-dominated art form, women’s barbershop groups have flourished since the founding of Sweet Adelines International in 1945, which promotes female barbershop quartets and choruses.

The Importance of Barbershop Quartets in American Music

• Cultural Heritage: Barbershop quartets are a unique element of American musical heritage, reflecting the cultural and social history of the early 20th century.
• Community Building: Barbershop music promotes community and camaraderie, bringing people together to sing, listen, and enjoy harmonious melodies.
• Accessibility: Barbershop singing is accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds, requiring no instruments or formal musical training—just a love for singing and harmony.

Ways to Support Barbershop Quartets and Music

• Join a Local Chorus or Quartet: Participate in a local barbershop group to learn more about this musical style and contribute to keeping the tradition alive.
• Attend Performances and Competitions: Support barbershop quartets by attending their performances or participating in competitions organized by barbershop associations.
• Donate to Barbershop Organizations: Consider donating to organizations like the Barbershop Harmony Society or Sweet Adelines International, which work to preserve and promote barbershop music.

Barbershop Competitions and Events

• Barbershop Harmony Society’s Annual International Convention: Held annually, this event brings together barbershop quartets and choruses from around the world to compete and celebrate the art form.
• Harmony University: An educational event hosted by the Barbershop Harmony Society, offering classes, workshops, and coaching for singers of all levels.
• Sweet Adelines International Convention: A major competition and gathering for women’s barbershop groups, promoting excellence in barbershop singing.

Suggestions for Commemorating National Barber Shop Quartet Day

• Organize a Quartet Performance: If you know a barbershop quartet, invite them to perform at your workplace, school, or community center to spread the joy of barbershop music.
• Watch a Documentary or Film: Learn more about barbershop music by watching a documentary or film that explores its history, such as American Harmony (2009).
• Try Singing a Barbershop Song: Gather a group of friends and try singing a classic barbershop song together. It’s a fun way to experience the harmonies firsthand.

National Barber Shop Quartet Day is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate a unique and harmonious American musical tradition, enjoy its rich sounds, and support the singers and communities that keep it alive. Whether you attend a live performance, listen to recordings, or try your hand at singing, this day is all about appreciating the timeless charm of barbershop music.