SACKVILLE, N.B. – More than 300 women a cappella singers from across Atlantic Canada will converge on Sackville from June 5 to 7 to participate in the 2014 Area 1 Convention and Contests of Harmony, Inc., international organization of women barbershop singers.
The public is invited to watch groups from New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland compete and entertain audiences on Friday, June 6, at Mount Allison University.
The chorus and quartet contests, which celebrate excellence in barbershop singing, will be held at Convocation Hall.
The quartet contest begins at 12:30 p.m. and the chorus contest starts at 8 p.m. The top scoring choruses and quartets will be eligible to compete at Harmony, Inc.’s international convention, to be held in November, in Louisville, KY.
Tickets will be available at the door. Admission is $10 for each event.
"If you like to sing, this event provides a great opportunity to learn more about a cappella harmony,” says Tracey Harkins, president of Sea Belles, Saint John-based chorus celebrating their 45th anniversary this year and top Area 1 chorus for past two years. “Barbershop is more than just singing – it is like Glee for adults, complete with colorful costumes, fancy footwork choreography, ringing chords and beautiful harmonies!”
“Barbershop singing isn't just for men,” explains Linda Brehaut, Area 1 (Atlantic) Director for Harmony, Inc. and co-chair for this year's event. “We’re proud to be the largest organization for women barbershop singers in Atlantic Canada,” adds Brehaut, “where women of all ages are welcome.”
Harmony, Inc. is a totally volunteer organization whose purpose is to empower all women through education, friendship and a cappella singing in the barbershop style. Founded in 1959, Harmony, Inc. currently has over 60 chapters in Canada and the US. The organization welcomes women of all races and creeds and embodies the spirit of harmony through its slogan, “We’ll help you…Find Your Voice.”
