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I attended the BABS 25th Harmony College as a relative novice to
Barbershop, and was welcomed with a warmth and enthusiasm which
would, in itself, have sold the weekend to me before I'd heard a
note of music. Spirits were high, faces friendly and it was impossible
not to have a good time.
Each day of the three day weekend commenced with 'warm-up's (or
'voice building') by visiting American barbershop expert, Jim de
Busman. It was a privilege to share his expertise, not just in the
finer points of barbershop singing, but also in the art of vocal
production and instruction.
The days were superbly structured, with an enormous variety of
courses on offer to participants. Many singers chose to join the
chorus for a day of rehearsals. Others elected to refine their presentation
skills, improve their singing technique or increase their knowledge
of music theory, to mention only three of over ten available courses.
In the afternoon barbershoppers were enticed to take a break from
their elected course by a wide selection of 'pick 'n mix' activities,
including Thai Chi relaxation exersises, sight singing new repertoire
and quartet coaching.
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On Friday night we were treated to a motivated and motivating lecture
from Mr de Busman, which he skilfully interspersed with some light
hearted tag singing. Directors were inspired to take a closer look
at the mechanism of teams and people which drive their choruses.
Everyone was provided with ample food for thought.
Saturday night brought the social and musical climax of the weekend.
Participants starred in a concert, showcasing their talents and
providing an evening of skilled and varied 'barbershopping' hand
in hand with plenty of laughs. The singing did not come to an end
with the concert, but continued well into the night as new found
friendships were cemented and old ones renewed.
My conclusion, at the end of the weekend, is that would-be-barbershoppers
should take the plunge! Whether you are a skilled musician, or just
an enthusiastic singer (or perhaps both?) there is a niche in the
Barbershop family just for you!
Briony Pereira
Music teacher: City of Lincoln Community College
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