C h a p t e r     H i s t o r y

The Longmont Chapter was chartered in 1948 to the "Society for the Preservation and Encouragement of BarberShop Quartet Singing in America".  In 2005 The society changed its name and logo to "The Barbershop Harmony Society"

The Chorus sings four part harmony, a cappella (unaccompanied) in the barbershop style. The Chorus rehearses weekly under the musical leadership of Chris Vaughn, director. (see the directors page for his bio). The Chorus prepares for an annual Spring show (usually in May), and other private and civic performances.
The highlight of the year for these men in their hobby, has to be the December caroling at senior residences and nursing homes. In December of 2005, 21 caroling sessions were delivered. Since 1992 the chorus has given a charity Christmas concert at the "Life Bridge Church of Longmont". This is the "thank you" to the residents of Longmont and neighboring communities for their support of our musical hobby.

Within the chorus, are several quartets that fill chapter obligations to civic and private performances in venues that would not normally accomodate the much larger chorus.  Every February since 1997, quartets of the chorus have sung to men and women in celebration of St. Valentines day.  These "Singing Valentines", are a fund raiser for the chapter for continued growth and improvements needed to support our harmonious hobby.

The ability to ensure the quality of our performances, comes from within the Society. Each year, "The Rocky Mountain District" holds Fall and Spring conventions, where choruses and quartets compete.  Society certified judges score there performance on criteria of vocal quality, music selection, and presentation.  Longmont's "Longs Peak Chorus" secured the Plateau II* - Championship in 1998 and 2000 with John Coffin directing. In August of 2004, Chris Vaughn took the helm as chorus director. Under his direction, the chorus achived the "most improved chorus" award for 2004 and 2005, This was the first time the award went to the same chorus two years in a row in the District. At the same time our standing improved from 5th to 4th place of 38 choruses in the district.

Several of our quartets over the years have qualified as top ten finalists at both Spring and Fall annual District competitions.
 
* choruses with a membership size between 40 and 75.