NASHVILLE, TN (CelebrityAccess) – The Barbershop Harmony Society, formerly known as the Society for the Preservation and Encouragement of Barber Shop Quartet Singing in America, announced yesterday (June 18) that after 80 years, it will now be welcoming women as members.
Originally founded in 1938 as a literal boys club, the Society says the announcement is the latest step in its realization of the strategic vision “Everyone in Harmony.”
“Everyone means EVERYONE — men and women, young and old, of every background, every race, every sexual orientation, every political opinion or spiritual belief,” said Skipp Kropp, president of the Society’s Board of Directors. “Every person who loves to harmonize has a place in our family.”
While this change in Society bylaws impacts eligibility for membership of the umbrella organization, local chapters and choruses will still have the autonomy to determine whether to continue as a men’s chorus, transition to or add a mixed chorus, or add a women’s chorus.
Welcome to the 21st-century Barbershop Harmony Society, we’ve been waiting for you.
