Frequently Asked Questions
- Q. What is "Barbershop Harmony"?
A. Barbershop Harmony is created when a musical score is rewritten to blend in the four-part 'a cappella' barbershop harmony style.
- Bass forms the foundation
- Lead sings the melody
- Tenor sings the higher notes above the Lead
- Baritone fills in the necessary notes in between that create the unique barbershop harmony style
- Q. Why sing barbershop harmonies with the Downeasters?
A. In a word: FUN! Not surprisingly, when current society members are asked the question "Do you wish you had gottten involved in barbershop singing earlier in your life?" the answer is invariably (and emphatically) YES! More specifically, here are some of the things that keep our members harmonizing year after year: - Fellowship - Male companionship in a wholesome family-like environment is conducive to friendship and the establishment of bonds that can last for a lifetime. Members enjoy that unique sense of belonging that comes from shared positive experiences and team membership.
- Challenge - Singing well is perhaps its own reward, but singing well enough to win a competition is something really special. If you think you're too old for competition sports ... try singing. A word of caution: winning can be addictive!
- Performing - Music reaches the human spirit in a way that words and pictures never can. Watching that happen to an audience as you perform a spirited "up tune" or a moving love song is nearly as addictive as winning a gold medal. How long has it been since YOU received a standing ovation?
- Learning/teaching - Mastering the intricacies of four part acappella harmony, in an environment conducive to learning helps our members stay young and mentally allert. And speaking of youth, the chorus actively promotes the teaching of this unique musical style in local schools through our "Young Men in Harmony" program. Never too young (or old) to learn is our strong belief. From pre-teen to 80+, our membership welcomes father/son combinations, a fairly common occurence throughout the society.
- Q. Do Downeasters have fun beyond rehearsals and shows?
A. They sure do! Just ask any of the members who work the "Yarmouth Clam Festival"... Why would members and family members happily volunteer to serve "lime rickys" and socialize all week-end? (Not to mention those week-end trips to competition events or afterglows at restaurants etc.) - Q. Where and when can I come to a rehearsal?
A. Come any Monday evening. We begin promptly at 7:00 pm and finish at 10:00 pm. We meet in the cafeteria of Harrison Middle School, 220 McCartney Street in Yarmouth, Maine. Car pooling may be possible and is encouraged. - Q. Can I just try out without making any kind of commitment?
A. Absolutely! We encourage potential members to attend a few rehearsals before considering auditioning for membership. - Q. Auditioning? You mean I have to sing in front of everyone...alone???
A. No, nothing that scary. Auditions are held with our director and section leaders to determine your level of experience, your ability to match and harmonize with tones, and the choral part best matched to your voice. - Q. Do I have to be able to read music?
A. No. While musical experience and formal training are certainly desirable qualifications, most chorus members have learned and honed their musical talents right here in the chorus...and you can too. - Q. What does it cost in terms of time and money?
A. We rehearse from 7 to 10 pm on Monday evenings. We put on two or more shows per year and we enjoy competing in one chorus competition a year. In addition we may do sing-outs, Singing Valentines etc. as the occasion presents. Before shows or competitions we may have retreats (workshops) to prepare for these events. Annual dues are required and include Chorus, District, and Society memberships. Members receive the quarterly District magazine and the bi-monthly Society magazine "The Harmonizer". Our own monthly chorus news "Soundings" is also distributed to all Downeasters members. All sheet music and learning cd's are provided as well. - Q. Who can I talk to for more information or to get my questions answered?
A. Go straight to the top! Email Bill Peterlein, Downeasters President, or give Bill a call: (207) 576-3313. - Q. How do I book the Downeasters Chorus or Quartets for our event?
A. Email Richard Roberge, our friendly Chorus Manager, or give Richard a call: (207) 286-9240.