Our Chapter is open to men of all ages. Over the past decade (we have been around since 1960) we have had members as young as 14 and as old as 94. We share a common love, that of singing. For women who are interested in Barbershop singing, Rockville also has a women's barbershop chorus. The best thing to do is visit us at one of our regular Tuesday evening (7:30pm) Chapter meetings and spend some time singing with us, or just listening. Come to 2 or 3 meetings and see if you don't just fall in love with the comraderie and fun. You will be greeted with a warm welcome and loaned sheet music so you can sing along. After visiting with us a few times, someone, possibly our Membership VP, will ask if you would like to join. There are three requirements for membership, first fill out a membership application, then meet with a member of our Music Committee for a brief audition (includes a vocal range check for best placement within the chorus) and finally, submit your first year's dues. Your dues payment makes you a member of the Barbershop Harmony Society, and of the Montgomery County, Maryland Chapter. It also gets you a one year subscription to our Society magazine, The Harmonizer . The Harmonizer is filled with great information about our hobby and usually a bit of music you can learn as well. Along with your membership you will recieve copies of our current repertoire of songs. Soon afterwards you will be fitted for your uniform. Some parts of the uniform are supplied by the Chapter, some are up to you to supply like black shoes and black slacks.

Then start learning our repertoire, time is spend in Chapter meetings learning music, and often other members can help if you need it. We have learning CD's (a recording of the song with your part predominant) that can aid in learning the songs as well. Once you have learned enough songs, you can sing with the chorus in public performances. Barbershop can be a wonderful opportunity for some quality Father/Son time. Bring you son (or your Father for that matter) and visit us soon. See our directions page to learn where we meet.

If you have questions about our organization, or just want more information in general about singing with us, please contact Jay Reiss by email or by phone at (301)-217-0051.

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