Barbershop quartet: Musical tradition of barbershop

Barbershop quartet is a unique musical tradition closely related to barbershop culture. This harmony of four voices originated precisely in the barbershops of America in the 19th century.

What is a barbershop quartet

Barbershop quartet is a vocal quartet of four male (or female) voices singing in close harmony without the accompaniment of instruments (a cappella). A specific four-part harmony with a dominant melodic voice is characteristic.

History of barbershop music

The tradition originated in African-American communities in the southern USA in the 19th century. Barbershops were a place where men waited to be served – and naturally they began to sing. Harmonizing popular songs became a popular pastime.

Why in barbershops

• Social center: Men met here and waited
• Free time: They filled the long wait with singing
• Acoustics: Small spaces with good sound
• Community: Regular customers knew the same songs

Four voices of the barbershop quartet

• Tenor: Highest voice, harmonizes over the melody
• Lead: Carries melody (not the highest voice, but the most important)
• Baritone: Fills harmony between lead and bass
• Bass: Lowest voice, basis of harmony

Characteristics of barbershop harmony

• Tight four-part harmony
• Dominant seventh chords („barbershop seventh“)
• A cappella (without instruments)
• Melody in the second highest voice
• Close intervals between voices

Barbershop Harmony Society

SPEBSQSA was founded in 1938 (Society for the Preservation and Encouragement of Barber Shop Quartet Singing in America), known today as the Barbershop Harmony Society. The organization keeps the tradition alive.

Barbershop today

Tradition lives:

• Thousands of active quartets around the world
• International competitions
• Female barbershop quartets (Sweet Adelines)
• Young generation discovers this style

Connection with modern barbershops

Some modern barbershops rediscover this tradition:

• Live barbershop music as an experience
• Thematic events with quartet
• Connecting history with modern barbershop

Famous barbershop songs

• „Sweet Adeline“
• „Hello! Ma Baby“
• „Down Our Way“
• „Coney Island Baby“