About Downeasters

Who are we?

The Downeasters Chorus is one of the top musical performing organizations in New England. We are a part of the Barbershop Harmony Society (barbershop.org), a musical art form with genuine American roots and a style that embraces singers of all levels. This is not your grandfather's music! Today, barbershop harmony includes mainstream a cappella vocals heard in groups such as Pentatonix, Straight No Chaser, and others. Our singing is four-part close harmony with rich emotional melodies designed to captivate our audiences. We sing gorgeous ballads, toe-tapping swing songs, and vivacious up-tunes where our performers move on the risers with a stage presence unique to choral performing. Our audiences and members give to our community through performances, fundraising events, and charitable donations to worthy causes.

The Downeasters welcome singers of all musical abilities. There is no formal audition or musical background requirement to sing with us. Our music team is skilled in working with new members that simply wish to sing and perform for audiences. And while we are dedicated to high achievement in music, we also have a fellowship and camaraderie that both fosters new friendships and is highly supportive of individual challenges in day-to-day living. Our members come from all walks of life; students, professionals, tradespeople, and energetic retirees with rich life experiences.  

Our culture consists of a diverse group of folks who bond together by one fervent passion: we love to sing and we believe that changing lives through music is worth the hard work and determination asked of the music team. We work hard individually outside of rehearsal to learn the notes and words of our songs. Professionally recorded learning tracks and sheet music help even the newest singer quickly contribute to the ensemble. At weekly rehearsal we then spend time molding our individual abilities into a holistic art form.

The Downeasters Chorus is deeply committed to enriching our community through both musical performances and philanthropic efforts. Our fundraising initiatives have enabled us to support a variety of local causes, including:

• Music Education: Supporting harmony camps and local music programs to nurture the next generation of musicians
• Senior Assistance: Bringing the joy of music to nursing homes and assisted living facilities
• Hunger Relief: Contributing to food pantries and soup kitchens to combat food insecurity in our community
• Arts Promotion: Supporting both performing and visual arts to encourage cultural expression and creativity

Through these endeavors, we aim to make a positive and lasting impact, reflecting our belief that music and community service go hand in hand. Come try The Downeasters on for size, and see if you like what you see, hear, and feel. A member will greet you when you arrive and ask how we can help you enjoy the evening.

The Downeasters Chorus is a Maine non-profit organization with strong ties to the Yarmouth community.  At the annual summer Yarmouth Clam Festival, funds raised from our signature lime rickey drink support many Yarmouth organizations, including Music Boosters, 317 Main Community Music Center, Royal River Chorus, and local businesses. The Downeasters are proud to be a part of the Clam Festival since 1965.