Quartet Quandary
Navigating the Quartet Experience
Held by our Assistant Director, Brandon Hall, Quartet Quandary is an in-depth exploration of the intricacies of being in a quartet. Whether you’re a member of GRV or part of another group, this session is designed to address the key aspects of quartet life. We cover essential topics such as:
Why and How to Be in a Quartet: Understanding the motivations and practical steps to form and maintain a successful quartet.
How Not to Be in a Quartet: Common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
Break-Ups: Navigating the delicate process of ending a quartet on good terms.
Quartet/Life Balance: Balancing your musical commitments with personal and professional responsibilities.
Repertoire: Selecting and managing your quartet’s song list.
Goal-Setting: Setting and achieving both short-term and long-term goals.
Communication: Building and maintaining effective communication within the group.
While this class is tailored for members of the GRV community, the principles and advice are applicable to any ensemble type and singing style, particularly Barbershop quartet singing. If you have specific questions or topics you’d like us to cover, please reach out to us privately, and we’ll do our best to include them in the class.
On-Site Presentations
Our on-site presentations are a distinctive feature of Great River Voices (GRV). These sessions are facilitated by either members of GRV’s leadership team or dedicated volunteers who are passionate about sharing their expertise. The presentations cover a range of important subjects, including current events, popular culture, and social issues.
They aim to educate and inspire, providing valuable knowledge and perspectives that extend beyond the scope of Barbershop harmony singing. These sessions enrich our community and broaden our understanding of the world.
Recent presentations include:
JEDI Training committee (Justice, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion): a session on gender identity, gender expression, and the use of inclusive language in a community such as ours. Held by our JEDI Council members, Erin Riedel (she/her) and Ben Vivona (he/they)
History of Pride Month: Held by Sister Tushie Galore (she/they) of The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence
History of Juneteenth: Held by GRV Member, Deajanae Elliott (she/her)
Social Media Etiquette: Held by Member-at-Large, and Tenor/Soprano section leader, Laura Grothaus (she/her)
(last updated 07/23/24)
Ben Vivona (he/they) and Erin Riedel (she/her) conducting the JEDI Training committee presentation,
Sister Tushie Galore (she/they) presented the history of pride month, and Deajanae Elliott (she/her) presented the history of Juneteenth at a later date.
Guest Nights
While guests are always welcome at our Wednesday rehearsals, special guest nights are designed especially for those new to Barbershop singing. These events include assistance in finding the right vocal part, pairing newcomers with experienced singers to help with the music, and enjoying performances from the chorus and quartets.
The focus is on sharing the joy of Barbershop and ensemble singing, fostering community, and introducing new members to the unique experience of singing with us. It’s an opportunity to connect, learn, and be entertained by the vibrant spirit of our group.
Great River Voices’ Guest Night – January 31st 2024
The Barbershop Harmony Society Competition Circuit
As a member of the 25,000-strong Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS), Great River Voices participates in the BHS Competition Circuit through its Quartet and Chorus Contest & Judging System, qualifying by competing in two to three contests each year.
Members interested in competing are responsible for covering their own travel, lodging, and contest registration fees. GRV is developing a program to assist active members who may need financial support to participate.
BARBERSHOP HARMONY SOCIETY CHORUS CONTEST, CLEVELAND, OH, JULY 6, 2024