About Bytown Beat
The Bytown Beat chorus, formed in early 2005, became a charter member of Sweet Adelines International (SAI) in October 2007, with 31 members. SAI is a worldwide organization of women singers committed to advancing the musical art form of barbershop harmony through education and performances. This independent, non-profit music education association is one of the world‘s largest singing organizations for women. The SAI organization has 35 regions comprised of more that 120 quartets and 600 choruses.
Our chorus is part of Lake Ontario Region 16 of SAI. Region 16 encompasses part of Ontario and New York State. Every region holds educational events as well as chorus and quartet competitions
Members learn music, good vocal production techniques and singing as a harmony team. We also learn about choreography, stage production, costuming, makeup and much more. Training and certification programs are available in the areas of directing, arranging, judging, teaching, personal growth and leadership.
For a better idea of what Bytown Beat Chorus and barbershop singing is all about please listen to this interview of our Chorus Director, Pam Warkentin, by CBC radio, Ottawa Morning host, Hallie Cotnam, as well as some selections performed by members of the Chorus, which aired on CBC on Friday, 3rd of March, 2008.
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We practice weekly through out the year. In addition, members attend other training events as well as regional conferences. We also perform at a variety of venues throughout the Ottawa area.