IMPORTANT NOTICE: ONE SHOW ONLY. SEATING IS LIMITED - RESERVE YOUR TICKETS ONLINE TODAY. Attention Sweet Adelines, Barbershoppers, singers and music enthusiasts, family, and friends. Come one, come all! Join the Sun Harbor Chorus as they present an a cappella choral spectacular in Southern California on Saturday, September 9th. The San Diego Chorus is one of four choral ensembles slated to perform at the Harmony Carnival Show. This exclusive performance will premiere on Saturday, September 9, 2023 at the historic Casa del Prado Theater, 1600 Village Place, San Diego, CA 92101 at 3 PM. The event is hosted by Sun Harbor Chorus. 2023 marks the 77th year of harmony for this long-standing men's a cappella barbershop organization, which rehearses in Balboa Park on Tuesday nights. The performance lineup for the show is noteworthy, showcasing award-winning barbershop choruses from across the Southern California region. Among them:
Audiences are sure to be entertained by nine-time Barbershop Harmony Society International Chorus Champions, the Masters of Harmony, as they perform an array of musical wonders, spanning harmonies from traditional barbershop to Broadway, including inspirational selections and powerful patriotic melodies! And that’s not all .... Sun Harbor Chorus will perform in celebration of their 77th year in harmony. The star-studded lineup also features two-time Sweet Adelines International Chorus Champions, the San Diego Chorus! The chorus is currently ranked 5th Internationally. Their precision, style and beautiful melodies are award-winning and memorable. The entertainment continues with the sensational 2023 Barbershop Harmony Society International Quarterfinalist quartet, The Essentials! These young men will wow audiences with their high-caliber, toe-tapping entertainment package. This exclusive show is limited to one performance only. General admission is $35, with discounts for seniors, military and students. 20% savings for groups of 10 or more tickets. Seating is limited - Reserve your tickets TODAY before they are gone. ABOUT THE SAN DIEGO CHORUS Founded in 1951, the San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International performs award-winning, four-part harmony in the barbershop style. Twice named International Chorus Champion of Women’s Barbershop Harmony, the nonprofit performing arts organization entertains in many musical genres along with its signature vibrant choreography. Led by Master Director and Sweet Adelines International Faculty, Kathleen Hansen, the San Diego Chorus is dedicated to local education, entertainment and competition. The Chorus welcomes women and non-binary treble singers who share a love of music and dedication to personal and musical growth regardless of age, race, religion, nationality, ethnicity, sexual orientation or gender expression. Rehearsals are held weekly on Wednesday evenings in Room 207 of the Casa del Prado building in Balboa Park. Additional information can be found on their website at SanDiegoChorus.org. ABOUT SUN HARBOR CHORUS Sun Harbor Chorus has provided a harmonic home for men singing in the barbershop style in San Diego County for over 60 years. Sun Harbor Chorus was founded in 1946 when a group of dedicated singers organized to form a new a cappella chorus. We are part of the Barbershop Harmony Society and are dedicated to high quality singing, fellowship and fun. Sun Harbor Chorus welcomes men of any age, race, nationality, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation or gender expression to visit us for an open audition. We enjoy meeting singers looking for a place to be part of a wonderful brotherhood filled with music, laughter and camaraderie. Learn more at SunHarbor.org. ABOUT MASTERS OF HARMONY The Masters of Harmony began in 1985 as the Foothill Cities Chapter of the Society for the Preservation and Encouragement of Barbershop Quartet Singing in America (SPEBSQSA), and for the past 35 years we have been dedicated to the pursuit of musical excellence. Today, this 100-man ensemble is the performance and competition chorus of the Greater Los Angeles, California Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS). Learn more online at MastersofHarmony.org.
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Watch excerpts from Pat Luebbers' 50th Anniversary Celebration and Acknowledgement at the San Diego Chorus Recharge Event “The San Diego Chorus won that year, Marvin Yerkey was their director,” Pat says warmly. “At the end of the night he led the audience in singing "Harmonize the World." The whole ballroom was singing, and I just about levitated. I was in heaven!” That evening, Marvin invited anyone who wanted to sing to visit the chorus. The next week Pat was sitting in her car outside of the rehearsal space, 20 minutes early, anxiously waiting for someone to open the doors. “They welcomed me with open arms,” recalls Pat of her first visit. “It was as though we were a long-lost family. I knew right away it was for me. But soon after my first visit, my youngest child became very ill and was hospitalized. When I was finally able to return to chorus - and trust me, I was counting the days - I remember several of the members cried, they were so happy to see me return!”
Pat remembers that within a few months of joining the chorus, Chuck noticed a change. “‘You are a totally different person to live with,’ he told me. He said it changed how I saw the world and that joy made a difference that was palpable in all areas of life.”
Over her 50 years of membership, Pat has served in almost every leadership position for the San Diego Chorus, including Chorus President. She was serving in this capacity when the organization received the devastating news that their celebrated director, Marvin Yerkey, was diagnosed with cancer. Yerkey passed away just a few short months later. “Marv was determined that our chorus would not only continue, but would thrive and grow after he was gone,” said Pat. “He would call from the hospital and I would take endless pages of notes as we talked about the things he had learned during his tenure, his vision for the future and his thoughts on how to find our next director.”
“It made me realize that not only is this chorus something that I want to do right now, but I look at Pat and I think, this is a lifelong journey, a family. I just know that in 50 years, I want to be like her!” Barker beams at the realization. Pat has no intention of fading away. “Singing with the San Diego Chorus has been a such an important part of my life. I cannot imagine my world without singing! I know there may come a time - and I will fight it like hell - because I won’t be ready to leave this earth until I can’t come to chorus anymore.” Pat Luebbers' 50 year milestone was celebrated at a surprise luncheon in early 2023. She received her 50 Year pin from Sweet Adelines International and was gifted an art glass treble clef from the San Diego Chorus in recognition of her many contributions. Pat was officially recognized by the San Diego Chorus at their Winter Recharge event, as well as at the Region 21 Golden West Contest and Competition in March of 2022 in Albuquerque, New Mexico. ABOUT THE SAN DIEGO CHORUS Founded in 1951, the San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International performs award-winning, four-part a cappella harmony in the barbershop style. Twice named International Chorus Champion of Women’s Barbershop Harmony, the nonprofit performing arts organization entertains in many musical genres along with its signature vibrant choreography. Led by Master Director and Sweet Adelines International Faculty, Kathleen Hansen, the San Diego Chorus is dedicated to local education, entertainment and competition. The Chorus welcomes women and non-binary treble singers who share a love of music and dedication to personal and musical growth regardless of age, race, religion, nationality, ethnicity, sexual orientation or gender expression. Rehearsals are held weekly on Wednesday evenings in Room 207 of the Casa del Prado building in Balboa Park. Additional information can be found on their website at SanDiegoChorus.org. ABOUT SWEET ADELINES INTERNATIONAL Sweet Adelines International is a musical force in the United States and around the world. The organization is headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma where it was founded in 1945. This nonprofit music education organization is one of the world's largest singing organizations for women, encompassing more than 25,000 members, 1,200 registered quartets, and 600 choruses in the United States, Australia, Canada, England, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Scotland, Sweden, The Netherlands, and Wales. More information is available online at SweetAdelines.com. MAY 8th, 2023 - The award-winning San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International will host open auditions on Wednesday, May 24th from 6:45 PM - 9:45 PM. The chorus performs 4-part a cappella harmony in the barbershop style. The event, which will be hosted in Room #207 of the Casa Del Prado Building in Balboa Park, offers an overview of the vocal assessment and audition process. Women and non-binary treble singers of all musical backgrounds are welcome. Interested singers are encouraged to RSVP to reserve a spot. Guests are encouraged to participate immediately in the Chorus warmup and rehearsal process. The evening also includes a private vocal assessment, a brief performance and an educational breakout session. Visitors receive details about the year-round soft audition process, membership, and history about the San Diego Chorus and Sweet Adelines International. Singers who successfully complete the audition process are paired with a chorus mentor and have the support of a year-long Rookie program designed to help singers build relationships and navigate their first year of membership. "The San Diego Chorus provides musical education, coaching and skill development that helps singers grow as musicians, performers and competitors," says Musical Director Kathleen Hansen. "We continuously strive to improve our contest program and expand our repertoire in preparation for upcoming performances." The organization is received a score of 674 in the Region 21 Contest. This score earned them 2nd place and merited a Wild Card Invitation from parent organization Sweet Adelines International. and accepted a Wild Card invitation to compete internationally in Kansas City in 2024. recently awarded a score of 674 in the Region 21 Golden West 2023 Contest, which took place in Albuquerque, NM. This noteworthy score earned them Second Place within the Region. The San Diego Chorus now awaits the outcome of Sweet Adeline's Regional competitions worldwide in hopes that this score will merit an invitation to compete internationally in the Spring of 2024, "Right now is the ideal time to begin our audition and membership process," says Hansen. "Doing so ensures your involvement in our next cycle of vocal and performance coaching, shows and competition." The San Diego Chorus recently celebrated it's 70th anniversary. The organization is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. Membership is open to women and non-binary treble singers of all ethnic and racial backgrounds, people with disabilities, members of the LGBTQ+ community and people of varied religions. Marina Hayden serves as Membership Chair for the Chorus. As a 29-year member of the San Diego Chorus and bass of SoloVoce, the 2023 Region 21 Quartet Champion, Hayden brings both history and heart to her role. "Guests arrive so excited about singing and learning more about our unique musical genre - something that we love to see," says Hayden. "What often surprises them are the life-changing relationships that naturally evolve with Chorus membership. Our musical family is like no other! We go out of our way to help each other succeed ... musically and in life. People come for the singing and stay for the friendships." If you would like to learn more about singing with the award-winning San Diego Chorus, RSVP for the May 24th Open House to learn more and begin your audition process. ABOUT THE SAN DIEGO CHORUS Founded in 1951, the San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International performs award-winning, four-part harmony in the barbershop style. Twice named International Chorus Champion of Women’s Barbershop Harmony, the nonprofit performing arts organization entertains in many musical genres along with its signature vibrant choreography. Led by Master Director and Sweet Adelines International Faculty, Kathleen Hansen, the San Diego Chorus is dedicated to local education, entertainment and competition. The Chorus welcomes women and non-binary treble singers who share a love of music and dedication to personal and musical growth regardless of age, race, religion, nationality, ethnicity, sexual orientation or gender expression. Rehearsals are held weekly on Wednesday evenings in Room 207 of the Casa del Prado building in Balboa Park. Additional information can be found on their website at SanDiegoChorus.org. ABOUT SWEET ADELINES INTERNATIONAL Sweet Adelines International is a musical force in the United States and around the world. The organization is headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma where it was founded in 1945. This nonprofit music education organization is one of the world's largest singing organizations for women, encompassing more than 25,000 members, 1,200 registered quartets, and 600 choruses in the United States, Australia, Canada, England, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Scotland, Sweden, The Netherlands, and Wales. More information is available on the International Web site by visiting, http://www.sweetadelineintl.org. San Diego, CA, March 27, 2023 – The San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International and the San Diego Women’s Chorus are pleased to announce a joint 2023 spring show, “Legacy: Lifting as We Climb.” The show features 160 combined voices from two choruses for one exclusive live performance. The event will take place at the Lincoln High School Auditorium on Sunday, May 7th at 4 p.m. The program features a diverse collection of new music as well as old favorites from each chorus, as well as some combined numbers. Both choruses are under the artistic and musical direction of Kathleen Hansen. Tickets are available online, seating is limited. “A joint concert has been in planning stages since the Spring of 2020,” says director Kathleen Hansen. “We’re thrilled to be back on the stage with a live audience and have prepared a dynamic musical lineup that showcases the unique vocal strengths of both organizations.” The San Diego Chorus (SDC) is fresh off a second place victory in their annual Region 21 Contest which includes choruses from Southern California, New Mexico, Arizona and Hawaii. For over 70 years, the two-time international Champion San Diego Chorus has been the home of a talented group of women who sing four-part a cappella harmony arranged in the barbershop style. The nonprofit organization is a chapter of Sweet Adelines International. Hansen says, “Both choruses have a long history in the San Diego music community - sharing their love of music and connecting people through song and musical education. This live concert is a joyous celebration of those who came before us and those who are paving the way to the future.” Founded in 1987 by community activist Dr. Cynthia Lawrence, the San Diego Women’s Chorus (SDWC) connects people from all walks of life in a shared, safe space to facilitate musical expression and inspire social action. A familiar and celebrated voice within the San Diego musical community, SDWC advocates for the power of music, women and marginalized voices. The nonprofit organization supports and affirms the music of women, LGBTQ+, feminist and BIPOC composers and arrangers. Tickets for Legacy: Lifting as We Climb are $30 general admission and $25 for students, veterans and disabled patrons, and may be purchased online. The performance will be ASL-interpreted for deaf and hard-of-hearing audience members. ABOUT THE SAN DIEGO CHORUS
Founded in 1951, the San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International is a highly trained and talented group of women who sing four-part a cappella harmony arranged in the barbershop style. A award-winning San Diego Chorus strives to entertain in many musical genres along with its signature vibrant choreography. Led by Master Director and Sweet Adelines International Faculty, Kathleen Hansen, the San Diego Chorus is dedicated to local entertainment and offering women and other marginalized genders opportunities for musical and personal growth. They welcome all singers regardless of age, race, religion, nationality, ethnicity, sexual orientation or gender expression who share a love of music and dedication to musical growth. Learn more at SanDiegoChorus.org. ABOUT THE SAN DIEGO WOMEN'S CHORUS Founded in 1987 by community activist Dr. Cynthia Lawrence, SDWC has grown from a group of 14 lesbians gathered around a piano in a private home to a thriving community with over 125 singers who believe in the power of music, the power of women, and the power of marginalized voices. For 35 years, SDWC has provided a safe space that encourages women’s creativity, celebrates diversity, and inspires social action. San Diego Women’s Chorus is a non-profit community chorus that strives to entertain and inspire audiences with music that speaks to issues as diverse as human rights, love, world peace, religious freedom, environmental harmony, inclusion, and cultural diversity. SDWC welcomes all women and gender non-conforming individuals as singers. SDWC supports and affirms the music of women and LGBTQ+ composers and arrangers. Learn more at sdwc.org. San Diego, CA, October 13, 2022 – The San Diego Chorus is one of the initial performing arts organizations to be officially recognized as a Live Well San Diego Partner. On November 5, 2022 Master Director, Kathleen Hansen and Team Coordinator, Pam Murray will receive the designation at a special ceremony in Balboa Park. The event, which will include a chorus performance, will take place between 2-4 PM at 2131 Pan American Plaza – which is located next to the new Comic-Con Museum. The Chorus originally received notification of the Live Well San Diego designation in early 2020, but the COVID-19 pandemic slowed plans for public celebration. The San Diego Chorus joins over 500 organizations in making a formal commitment to the mission of Live Well San Diego: Building Better Health, Living Safely, and Thriving. Diverse resources and collective impact throughout the County of San Diego aligns with efforts across all sectors to help all 3.3 million San Diego County residents live well. For more than 70 years and throughout the pandemic the San Diego Chorus continued to share their love of 4-part a cappella music and its unique ability to build community. Founded on a tradition of dynamic performance, high-quality music education and regional / international competition, the Chorus is a two-time International Champion of Women’s Barbershop Harmony. Master Director Kathleen Hansen is a long-time advocate of the health benefits of singing. “Most of us know that singing is an important cultural and social expression, but what you may not realize is that singers actually experience an incredible array of health benefits,” Hansen says. “Group singing is scientifically proven to reduce stress, boost immunity and improve social-emotional health. Singing releases endorphins in the brain, a feel-good chemical that helps with stress response. When you sing, you’re actively improving your memory and changing your brain for the better.” The cross-generational singers of the San Diego Chorus range in age from early 20s through their 80s and come from all walks of life. One thing they have in common is first-hand experience with the many positive physical and mental health benefits that singing adds to their lives: "Singing has been a lifeline to community the last few years. When the world was in chaos, music was a bright light. It kept me sane and brought me joy! Learning to sing through both wonderful and difficult seasons has changed my outlook and helped me become more resilient." - Nicole Knox, Lead, 3.5 year member “Singing with the Sweet Adelines has become a way of life. These singers are my extended family, and have provided me the support, education, and skills to expand my musical knowledge, leadership skills, and work-life opportunities." - Cherie Peters-Brinkerhoff, Baritone, 31 year member “Music had always been part of my life. Growing up, I was in music classes and school and community theater programs. In college I took many music classes and was a theater minor. Somewhere along the way, I stopped learning and performing. I've found a family & connection in the San Diego Chorus. Now, I can't imagine life without being a part of some type of musical community.” - Laurie Bokuniewicz, Bass, 2 year member “From the moment I walked into a San Diego Chorus rehearsal, I knew I had found a community I could truly belong to. Singing in the chorus makes me feel like I finally found a home, and that has had a huge impact on my mental health. I don't feel lost anymore.” - Anakaren Santana, Lead, new member The San Diego Chorus is one of just a few performing arts groups who were invited to join Live Well San Diego’s county wide network of businesses and non-profits devoted to promoting habits for good health in our communities. The nonprofit performing arts organization offers a year-round soft audition process and encourages new singers to visit weekly rehearsals anytime. The San Diego Chorus meets on Wednesday nights from 6:45pm – 9:45 pm in Room #207 of the Casa Del Prado building of Balboa Park. ABOUT THE SAN DIEGO CHORUS
Founded in 1951, the San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International performs award-winning, four-part harmony in the barbershop style. Twice named International Chorus Champion of Women’s Barbershop Harmony, the nonprofit performing arts organization entertains in many musical genres along with its signature vibrant choreography. Led by Master Director and Sweet Adelines International Faculty, Kathleen Hansen, the San Diego Chorus is dedicated to local education, entertainment and competition. The Chorus welcomes women and other marginalized genders who share a love of music and dedication to personal and musical growth regardless of age, race, religion, nationality, ethnicity, sexual orientation or gender expression. Rehearsals are held weekly on Wednesday evenings in Room 207 of the Casa del Prado building in Balboa Park. Additional information can be found on their website at SanDiegoChorus.org. ABOUT LIVE WELL SAN DIEGO Live Well San Diego is a vision for a region that is Building Better Health, Living Safely, and Thriving. Through collective impact and the diverse resources and backbone support of the County of San Diego, the vision aligns efforts across sectors to help all 3.3 million San Diego County residents live well. Over 500 organizations throughout the region have made a formal commitment to the vision so that wherever you live, work, play or pray, an organization or individual is nearby, working to improve your well-being and the health of your community. Together, we can do more than each of us alone. Additional information can be found on their website at https://www.livewellsd.org/ San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International P.O. Box 33365, San Diego, CA 92163 619-796-5162 – SanDiegoChorus.org SEPTEMBER 20, 2022 - The award-winning San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International wants your voice to be heard. The Chorus, a 4-part a cappella harmony group singing in the barbershop style, invites interested singers to join them on October 5, 2022 from 6:45 p.m. to 9:45 p.m. to learn more about the vocal assessment and audition process. The San Diego Chorus is looking for women and non-binary singers of all ages and backgrounds who love to sing to experience the joy of performing and competing in 4-part a cappella harmony. "Singing regularly has so many proven benefits to health and well-being, I encourage everyone to consider it,” says Master Director, Kathleen Hansen. “The San Diego Chorus welcomes singers of all experience levels. Our soft audition process is self-paced and very approachable, providing singers with customized support and resources every step of the way.”
Guests at the October 5th event receive a private vocal assessment and are paired with a chorus ‘buddy’ who sings the same voice part. Visitors are encouraged to participate immediately in the warmup and rehearsal process, which includes an educational breakout session about a cappella singing and how barbershop fits into the genre. Guests also receive details about the audition pathway, history about the San Diego Chorus and Sweet Adelines International, and more. "San Diego Chorus membership provides growth and skill development as a musician, performer and competitor – we strive to continuously improve our contest program, review our existing catalog of music as well as learn new music in preparation for upcoming performances," said Kathleen. The San Diego Chorus celebrated its 70th anniversary during the pandemic. Since it was founded, the organization has won more regional and international awards than any local sports team. Marina Hayden, Membership Coordinator, Chorus and Solo Voce Quartet member says, “I believe there are many singers who long for the type of rich community that our chorus offers, but have been unable to find it in other outlets.” Interested singers are invited to learn more, RSVP and connect with the San Diego Chorus New Member Team at https://www.sandiegochorus.org/open-house-rsvp.html. ABOUT THE SAN DIEGO CHORUS Founded in 1951, the San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International performs award-winning, four-part harmony in the barbershop style. Twice named International Chorus Champion of Women’s Barbershop Harmony, the nonprofit performing arts organization entertains in many musical genres along with its signature vibrant choreography. Led by Master Director and Sweet Adelines International Faculty, Kathleen Hansen, the San Diego Chorus is dedicated to local education, entertainment and competition. The Chorus welcomes women and other marginalized genders who share a love of music and dedication to personal and musical growth regardless of age, race, religion, nationality, ethnicity, sexual orientation or gender expression. Rehearsals are held weekly on Wednesday evenings in Room 207 of the Casa del Prado building in Balboa Park. Additional information can be found on their website at SanDiegoChorus.org. ABOUT SWEET ADELINES INTERNATIONAL Sweet Adelines International is a musical force in the United States and around the world. The organization is headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma where it was founded in 1945. This nonprofit music education organization is one of the world's largest singing organizations for women, encompassing more than 25,000 members, 1,200 registered quartets, and 600 choruses in the United States, Australia, Canada, England, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Scotland, Sweden, The Netherlands, and Wales. More information is available on the International Web site by visiting, http://www.sweetadelineintl.org. San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International P.O. Box 33365, San Diego, CA 92163 619-796-5162 – www.sdchorus.org San Diego, CA, May 10, 2022 – The San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International is pleased to announce their 2022 annual show, ”A Wonderful Day.” The performance will take place live at the Patrick Henry PHAME Performing Arts Center on Saturday, May 21st at 7 p.m. The show will feature a diverse collection of new music as well as old favorites from the chorus, single and double quartets, a silent auction, and memorabilia exhibits. In 2021 the Chorus celebrated its 70th anniversary and was honored with a Proclamation from San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria. Although their official 70th anniversary event was postponed by the pandemic, the chorus is excited to celebrate the milestone now with their first live show in over two years. “This show is the culmination of hours of virtual and in-person rehearsals,” says Master Director Kathleen Hansen. “It is a joyous celebration of musical milestones and memories that give us an opportunity to share our love of music through live performance.” said Hansen. The repertoire of the San Diego Chorus is diverse and spans multiple decades. Show attendees will enjoy classic a cappella barbershop songs juxtaposed with more familiar, contemporary numbers including songs from The Greatest Show, the Beatles, Journey, Crosby, Stills & Nash, Juice Newton and more. In addition to performances by the San Diego Chorus, several award-winning quartets will be featured throughout the evening. Included among them is Solo Voce, 4th place award-winners within Region 21 of Sweet Adelines International. The highly competitive region spans Southern California, Arizona, New Mexico and Hawaii. “Even when we were unable to meet in person, our commitment to musical excellence remained alive and well,” says Kathleen Hansen. “Over the last two years we’ve expanded our musical repertoire and released a steady stream of singles and virtual shows. Our singers are delighted to debut these new numbers for a live audience.” Doors to “A Wonderful Day,” will open at 6 PM, and guests are encouraged to arrive early and shop the silent auction. Winning bids support the San Diego Chorus in fulfilling their mission of musical education, leadership development, youth outreach, local performance and regional and international competitive presence. The auction will feature a broad selection of items and experiences to bid on. Guests may also explore a special exhibit of Chorus memorabilia, medals and costumes collected over the organization’s 70 years of award-winning performances. Tickets are $25 per person and may be purchased online. ABOUT THE SAN DIEGO CHORUS Founded in 1951, the San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International is a highly trained and talented group of women who sing four-part harmony arranged in the barbershop style. Twice named International Chorus Champion of Women’s Barbershop Harmony, the San Diego Chorus strives to entertain in many musical genres along with its signature vibrant choreography. Led by Master Director and Sweet Adelines International Faculty, Kathleen Hansen, the San Diego Chorus is dedicated to local entertainment and offering women and other marginalized genders opportunities for musical and personal growth. They welcome all singers regardless of age, race, religion, nationality, ethnicity, sexual orientation or gender expression who share a love of music and dedication to musical growth. The Chorus meets weekly in Room 207 of the Casa del Prado in beautiful Balboa Park. Rehearsals are open and interested singers are always welcome. Additional information can be found online at SanDiegoChorus.org. ABOUT SWEET ADELINES INTERNATIONAL Sweet Adelines International is a musical force in the United States and around the world. The organization is headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma where it was founded in 1945. This nonprofit music education organization is one of the world's largest singing organizations for women, encompassing more than 25,000 members, 1,200 registered quartets, and 600 choruses in the United States, Australia, Canada, England, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Scotland, Sweden, The Netherlands, and Wales. More information is available on the International Web site by visiting SweetAdelines.com. Share the Spotlight with Your Furry Friend and Send a Unique Holiday Singing Gram this Holiday12/10/2021 San Diego, CA, December 10, 2021 – The San Diego Chorus is pleased to add Pet Grams to their virtual Singing Holiday Grams collection this season! Continued social distancing measures will still have an impact on the way many will celebrate this holiday season, but the San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International has created yet another memorable way to send warm wishes to friends and family near and far from you and your furry pal.
As well as interrupting rehearsal and performance schedules in the midst of the pandemic, the San Diego Chorus has had to think about fundraising in creative ways. "Last year we created singing Holiday Grams featuring three seasonal winter, Christmas and Hanukkah songs performed virtually in four-part, a cappella harmony,” said Kathleen Hansen, Director of the San Diego Chorus. “This holiday we’ve added a new fun way to share the spotlight with your favorite furry friend by offering Pet Holiday Grams.” “We’ve been keeping the music alive during this uncommon time. These Singing Grams help by offsetting the revenue we’ve lost from in-person events, fundraisers and performances,” Kathleen concluded. These fun and unique gifts feature a chorus of furry pals singing Jingle Bells, spotlighting your special friend and include a special message from you. For those that seek humans performing, senders may choose from the catalog of three seasonal songs: Jingle Bells, Silent Night or S'vivon. Each Singing Gram includes a personalized message from the sender, making them a unique way to send warm wishes to friends and family. All Singing Grams are delivered digitally via email and are $25 per Gram. Recipients receive a link to view their Holiday Singing Gram message online. Allow a 5-day turnaround for personalization and be sure to order by December 18th for delivery by the 25th. The San Diego Chorus has been rereleasing singles from their 2020 holiday show, “Wish You Were Here,” virtually via YouTube and Facebook. This festive collection of holiday music from their virtual choir, will for sure put you in the holiday mood! Easy online ordering and safe virtual delivery will add harmony to your holidays! Schedule your Singing Grams today at: https://www.sandiegochorus.org/grams. ABOUT THE SAN DIEGO CHORUS Founded in 1951, the San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International is a highly trained and talented group of women who sing four-part harmony arranged in the barbershop style. Twice named International Chorus Champion of Women’s Barbershop Harmony, the San Diego Chorus strives to entertain in many musical genres along with its signature vibrant choreography. Led by Master Director and Sweet Adelines International Faculty, Kathleen Hansen, the San Diego Chorus is dedicated to local entertainment and offering women of all ages opportunities for musical and personal growth. The Chorus welcomes singers of all ethnic and racial backgrounds, people with disabilities, members of the LGBTQ+ community and people from varied religions. The San Diego Chorus hosts weekly open-air rehearsals on Wednesday evenings at Mission Village Church, located at 2650 Melbourne Drive (rear lot), San Diego, CA 92123. Additional information can be found on their website at www.sandiegochorus.org. ABOUT SWEET ADELINES INTERNATIONAL Sweet Adelines International is a musical force in the United States and around the world. The organization is headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma where it was founded in 1945. This nonprofit music education organization is one of the world's largest singing organizations for women, encompassing more than 25,000 members, 1,200 registered quartets, and 600 choruses in the United States, Australia, Canada, England, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Scotland, Sweden, The Netherlands, and Wales. More information is available on the International Web site by visiting www.sweetadelines.org. October 4, 2021 - While in her twenties, Sue Clay suffered a broken ankle in a skiing accident. After a long recovery, she decided that singing might be considerably less dangerous. This is how Sue discovered a cappella singing at 26 years old. She is self-taught and doesn’t read music or play an instrument. “When I was growing up I was told I couldn’t sing, ” Sue says. “I wasn’t allowed to sing at church or school … but I always wanted to. I guess I showed them!” She laughs at the memory. In 2021, the San Diego resident celebrated 50 years of membership with Sweet Adelines International (SAI). SAI performs competitive 4-part a cappella harmony in the barbershop style. Sue has fond memories of traveling with the chorus. Over the course of her musical career, she has sung with two Sweet Adeline choruses: Torrey Pines (1971-79) and the San Diego Chorus (1979 – present). Although Sue began her singing career as a lead vocalist and later sang baritone, her longest tenure has been as a bass. Kathleen Hansen serves as Master Director of the San Diego Chorus. “Sue has been an invaluable member of the San Diego Chorus for decades and can usually be found singing near the center of the chorus,” Hansen says. “Her lovely bass voice has natural resonance that matches everyone that she sings with, earning her the moniker of the Universal Bass.” In 2000, Sue was diagnosed with a brain tumor that later required surgery. It was a difficult season, she remembers, but could have been much worse. Sue sang throughout her recovery, which included the 2001 Sweet Adelines International Competition in Portland, Oregon. That year the San Diego Chorus was named International Champions, the second championship title for the chorus since they were established in 1951. The Portland show was a memorable one for many reasons, including a minor misstep that resulted in Sue slipping off the back of the risers. “I was absolutely fine,” Clay says with a grin. “The show went on … but I’ll never forget it.” What she remembers most about that particular performance is the feeling of excitement when stepping onto the International stage. “There were these long, sheer curtains on either side of the chorus. As we walked on stage, we flung them aside and stepped in time. There was a distinct cadence … like a stomp,” she says. “It was such an entrance! You could feel the excitement building before we even sang our first note.” Kim Vaughn is a three-time International Quartet Champion, Queen of Harmony and directed the San Diego chorus from 1985-2015. “Sue draws other voices in, helping them find their place and shine. “ says Vaughn. “She is a naturally responsive singer with an intuitive ear. You can always rely on Sue to have it right, and she works hard at that.” Sue is known by her singing family for being kind and direct – a person who says what she means and means what she says. An avid seamstress, Sue worked on chorus costumes for many years. She currently serves on the riser team, helping to set up and break down equipment for weekly rehearsals and performances. Sue estimates that over the years she has easily sung with more than 25 quartets, some of whom have sung competitively. “It’s fun singing with a smaller group and being solely responsible for your own part,” Sue says. “We had some wonderful times traveling and performing.” In addition to traveling across the U.S., Clay fondly recalls a trip to Hawaii when her quartet was invited to teach barbershop singing at a college, as well as a trip to Ireland. In her early years of traveling she was determined to not miss a single moment of each competition. “Every class, workshop and performance, I was there. After the performance, I stayed for the afterglow - I didn’t want to miss a thing,” Clay says. “Suddenly it was 3 a.m., and I needed to get back to my hotel room, which was on the 34th floor. There was a small problem, though – I hate elevators. That year’s outgoing International Quartet Champions, the Bronze Tones, made sure I made it safely to my room. They rode that elevator all the way to the top with me, and we sang the whole way!” Barbershop singers are just ‘good people,’ Sue says. Not surprisingly, the pandemic brought chorus performances and competitions worldwide to a temporary halt over the last two years. As a result, Sweet Adelines International was unable to acknowledge Clay’s 50 year milestone from the International Stage, a celebrated and time-honored tradition. Sue’s San Diego Chorus family made sure her anniversary didn’t pass without celebration. A cherished group of close friends orchestrated a small surprise luncheon, presenting Sue with her 50 year pin from Sweet Adelines International. She also received a golden glass sculpture of a treble clef from the San Diego Chorus. Of course there was singing on that day, too. Sue is grateful for the countless friendships that have come from singing barbershop music for 50 years. On both good days and bad, Sue cannot remember a time when she didn’t choose to sing. “When things are hard in life, singing is where I go. This is what makes me happy,” Sue said. “I do it for the joy factor and never intend to stop.” ABOUT THE SAN DIEGO CHORUS Founded in 1951, the San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International is a highly trained and talented group of women who sing four-part harmony arranged in the barbershop style. Twice named International Chorus Champion of Women’s Barbershop Harmony, the San Diego Chorus strives to entertain in many musical genres along with its signature vibrant choreography. Led by Master Director and Sweet Adelines International Faculty, Kathleen Hansen, the San Diego Chorus is dedicated to local entertainment and offering women of all ages opportunities for musical and personal growth. The Chorus welcomes singers of all ethnic and racial backgrounds, people with disabilities, members of the LGBTQ+ community and people from varied religions. The San Diego Chorus hosts weekly open-air rehearsals on Wednesday evenings at Mission Village Church, located at 2650 Melbourne Drive (rear lot), San Diego, CA 92123. Additional information can be found on their website at www.sandiegochorus.org. ABOUT SWEET ADELINES INTERNATIONAL Sweet Adelines International is a musical force in the United States and around the world. The organization is headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma where it was founded in 1945. This nonprofit music education organization is one of the world's largest singing organizations for women, encompassing more than 25,000 members, 1,200 registered quartets, and 600 choruses in the United States, Australia, Canada, England, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Scotland, Sweden, The Netherlands, and Wales. More information is available on the International Web site by visiting www.sweetadelines.org. The San Diego Chorus announces return to live rehearsals with summer evenings under the stars!6/22/2021 San Diego, CA - June 22, 2021: The San Diego Chorus is thrilled to announce their highly anticipated return to in-person rehearsals! Beginning Wednesday, July 7, 2021 the San Diego Chorus will resume weekly live rehearsals on Wednesdays from 6:45 PM - 9:45 PM. The Chorus will temporarily meet in the rear parking lot of Mission Village Christian Fellowship at 2650 Melbourne Drive, San Diego 92123. The open-air rehearsal format takes advantage of San Diego’s warm summer evenings and allows for social distancing. Singers should bring water, a chair if desired and a light jacket or sweatshirt. Restrooms are available. No masks are required for vaccinated singers. The chorus hopes to return to their usual Balboa Park indoor rehearsal space at a later date when current renovations have been completed. Since their last in-person rehearsal on March 11, 2020, the San Diego Chorus has developed a high-engagement approach to virtual rehearsals. Led by Master Director Kathleen Hansen, weekly rehearsals focus on strengthening vocal skills, refining new and existing music and choreography and features occasional guest coaches. The Chorus has continued old traditions in new formats with a virtual Holiday Show, and their recent June 12th summer show, “As Long As I’m Singin.’” During the hiatus, the San Diego Chorus continued to welcome new singers and added 6 new “virtual” members to their ranks. The organization is pleased to have retained 85% of their membership over the last 15 months. Like many arts-based organizations, social distancing measures have impacted fundraising activities. The San Diego Chorus pursued new opportunities to help close the gap, Among them are the introduction of Singing Grams and hosting online “Yum Raisers” with See’s Candies. As the organization returns to in-person performances, the new virtual additions will remain a part of their standard offerings.
San Diego Chorus is a nonprofit volunteer organization funded by grants, fundraising and member dues. For those interested in singing, upcoming events and sponsorship, learn more at www.SanDiegoChorus.org. ABOUT THE SAN DIEGO CHORUS Founded in 1951, the San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International is a highly trained and talented group of women who sing four-part harmony arranged in the barbershop style. Twice named International Chorus Champion of Women’s Barbershop Harmony, the San Diego Chorus strives to entertain in many musical genres along with its signature vibrant choreography. Led by Master Director and Sweet Adelines International Faculty, Kathleen Hansen, the San Diego Chorus is dedicated to local entertainment and offering women of all ages opportunities for musical and personal growth. The Chorus welcomes singers of all ethnic and racial backgrounds, people with disabilities, members of the LGBTQ+ community and people from varied religions. The San Diego Chorus hosts weekly open-air rehearsals on Wednesday evenings at Mission Village Church, located at 2650 Melbourne Drive (rear lot), San Diego, CA 92123. Additional information can be found on their website at www.sandiegochorus.org. ABOUT SWEET ADELINES INTERNATIONAL Sweet Adelines International is a musical force in the United States and around the world. The organization is headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma where it was founded in 1945. This nonprofit music education organization is one of the world's largest singing organizations for women, encompassing more than 25,000 members, 1,200 registered quartets, and 600 choruses in the United States, Australia, Canada, England, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Scotland, Sweden, The Netherlands, and Wales. More information is available on the International Web site by visiting www.sweetadelines.org. San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International P.O. Box 33365, San Diego, CA 92163 619-796-5162 –www.sandiegochorus.org |
AboutThe San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International is an award-winning chorus performing 4-part a cappella harmony in the barbershop style. CategoriesArchives
November 2023
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