NATIONAL BARBERSHOP MUSIC APPRECIATION DAY
NATIONAL BARBERSHOP MUSIC APPRECIATION DAY
Every year on July 13, we celebrate the vibrant, a cappella style of barbershop music and commemorate the founding of one of its most influential musical societies.
#BarbershopMusicAppreciationDay
Barbershop music has deep roots in African American culture, tracing back to traditional, improvisational music from the 1800s. Early folk songs and hymns sung in four parts eventually evolved into the distinct, blending four-part harmony we know today.
"There is no bad day that can't be overcome by listening to a barbershop quartet. This is just truth, plain and simple." ~ Aldous Huxley
While many associate the style with a four-person quartet, entire massive choirs also perform barbershop music. It is an inclusive genre that brings together people of all ages and backgrounds, featuring uplifting, spiritual, or lighthearted songs with clear lyrics and easily singable melodies.
National Barbershop Music Day specifically honors the founding of Sweet Adelines International on July 13, 1945. Established by Edna Mae Anderson in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the organization was created to bring women together in harmony. Today, it boasts nearly 21,000 members worldwide who rehearse, compete, and perform locally.
10 BARBERSHOP MUSIC APPRECIATION DAY CELEBRATIONS
Our ability (or inability) to sing shouldn't prevent anyone from celebrating National Barbershop Music Day. One thing is certain, if you listen to some four-part harmony to start your day, you'll likely start it off right. Here are a few other recommendations to help you celebrate!
Attend a barbershop performance.
Share your group's performances online.
Organize a barbershop performance. Take your quartet or entire choir to the streets and pop up in a park.
Surprise people on the street with a sweet serenade.
Join a barbershop group such as Sweet Adelines International.
Support local organizations that rehearse and perform together.
Learn to sing a cappella.
Encourage others to share their talent.
Discover the history of barbershop music.
Share your celebration using #BarbershopMusicAppreciationDay on social media.
NATIONAL BARBERSHOP MUSIC APPRECIATION DAY HISTORY
Sweet Adelines International founded National Barbershop Music Appreciation Day in 2005 to commemorate the organization's 60th anniversary. On July 13, 1945, Edna Mae Anderson founded the organization in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Today, it boasts almost 21,000 members worldwide.
