Some Frequently Asked Questions!
If you have more questions, just email us at info@ashevillebarbershop.com
How do I know what part I sing?
When you visit a rehearsal, there will be a member there to do a quick review of your voice range, and ask just a few questions about your musical experience. Most beginning barbershoppers start out singing lead (the melody) or bass. But it's not set in stone! You can start in one part and then move whenever you feel comfortable.
Do I have to read music to join?
No! No formal music experience or training is necessary. We will provide you with all of the training materials and educational support you will need.
I'm a girl. Can I join?
Sadly, no. The specific style we sing is four-part male voices only. HOWEVER, you can join the Song of the Sky Chorus in Asheville. We have many "dual barbershop" families.
Is there an age limit? Am I too young/old to join?
No! All that we require is that you enjoy singing and are able and willing to participate in chapter meetings, rehearsals and events. We have had members as young as age 10, and our oldest members are well into their 80s.
Why do they call it 'barbershop' harmony? Are you guys all barbers?
The history of barbershop harmony and its roots goes back to the late 1800s. According to legend, the barbershop was a popular gathering spot for the men of the community, and a popular activity was singing songs of the day. Once the first melody singer found the first bass, tenor, and baritone, the rest was a matter of inevitability. While some barbers have been members of the BHS, you don't need to know how to cut hair in order to join. Heck, you don't even have to shave!
Are you guys professional musicians?
The LOS is an all-volunteer organization. We're amateur singers who come from a wide range of professional and musical backgrounds.
You rehearse in a church. Is this a church-based organization?
The Barbershop Harmony Society and the Land of the Sky Chorus are secular. We perform songs in many musical genres, incluidng an occassional spiritual or gospel tune, but our repetoire is predominately that of the "Great American Songbook," modern popular songs that lend themselves to our style, and some old chestnuts that are just plain fun to sing.
The society and the chorus are open to all men who like to sing. You would be joining a non-profit, educational, singing organization.
I'd like to join, but I'm not sure I can commit that amount of time. What should I do?
Like all activities, the more you participate, the more enjoyment you'll get. But we understand that "life" intervenes, and we have members who join us for part of the year, when their schedules permit. All we ask is that you come and check us out. See what we do, how we do it, and how much enjoyment we get from this hobby. Fair warning: once you get those first barbershop goosebumps from really nailing a chord, you might be hooked for life!
Can I come to a rehearsal and just watch/observe? Are your rehearsals open?
All rehearsals of the LOS are free and open to the public. If you're a male and you walk through the door, you'll be strongly encouraged to sing with us right from the start. Because it's more fun that way.
How much of a financial commitment is it to join?
Dues for the Society, the District, and the Chapter comes out to less than $2.50 a week. Participation in District competitions involves additional individual registration fees. There are a number of programs to assist members. The LOS chorus has long held a policy that no man should be prevented from full participation in the hobby for purely financial considerations.