Eight months ago, I stepped over the threshold of Harmony Revival, brand new to the barbershop world. Being 17 I'm the youngest member of Stockport Barbershop Harmony Club, so it was a surprise for the lads when I came to my first rehearsal! I really don't know how I got into conducting at SBHC. All I seem to remember is expressing an interest and there I was, leading the afterglow!

I gave it a go and… well, I wanted to do more!

There were a couple of milestones to get past on my way to Director's College. The first one was finding out that it actually existed! The second one (and the turning point, I guess) was a visit from Bill Harvey, who suggested applying for a grant from Harmony Foundation. It was one of the best things I've ever done!

It was uplifting to be awarded a grant from the Steve Hall Trust, and my club was really happy for me. I am very grateful for the grant and it gave me a golden opportunity to learn about a part of music I am very passionate about.

Looking forward to the challenge, I enrolled straight on to the not-novice programme. The challenge certainly came!

Upon arrival on Friday night, I was quite intimidated because I was the youngest there. Not before long however I was in the hotel lobby, singing with everybody. Everybody was very nice and any nerves I had left me. Throughout the entire weekend, everyone was really supportive and friendly.

My coach Rhiannon was incredible, and I have so much to thank her for!

The coaching all round was brilliant, and I took loads of new skills away from the college, as well as an offer to join the Youth Chorus (fantastic!).

To wrap up, I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone on the course and that I really hope to attend the course next year!

In harmony,

Jake Barlow Harmony Revival