National Barbershop Music Appreciation Day
National Barbershop Music Appreciation Day
National Barbershop Music Appreciation Day is a celebration of the unique and timeless a cappella harmony style known as barbershop music. This genre, characterized by its distinctive four-part harmony, has deep cultural roots and continues to inspire music lovers worldwide. The day honors this musical tradition and its contributions to the arts.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: July 13
- Tagged as: Music, A Cappella, Harmony
- What’s the hashtag?: #BarbershopMusicDay
- When was it founded?: 2005
- Who founded it?: Sweet Adelines International
History
Barbershop music originated in African-American communities in the late 19th century and gained popularity in America by the early 20th century. On July 13, 1945, Edna Mae Anderson of Tulsa, Oklahoma, invited women to her home for a singing session, leading to the formation of the Sweet Adelines—a group that popularized barbershop music among women. The day was officially established in 2005 to mark the 60th anniversary of this organization.
Timeline
- 1600s: Barbershop music traces its roots to England as “barber’s music.”
- 1900s: The style gains popularity in America, influenced by African-American folk traditions.
- 1945: Sweet Adelines is founded on July 13.
- 1991: Sweet Adelines International expands globally.
- 2005: National Barbershop Music Appreciation Day is created.
Dates by Next Year (2025–2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | July 13 | Sunday |
| 2026 | July 13 | Monday |
| 2027 | July 13 | Tuesday |
| 2028 | July 13 | Thursday |
| 2029 | July 13 | Friday |
| 2030 | July 13 | Saturday |
Observed
This day is observed by listening to barbershop quartets or Sweet Adelines performances, learning about the history of barbershop music, or even joining a local group to experience this unique art form firsthand.
Fun Facts About Barbershop Music
- Barbershop harmonies produce “ringing chords,” creating a vibrant sound when overtones align perfectly.
- The voice parts in barbershop music are lead, tenor, baritone, and bass.
- Barbershop music was once an essential part of American barbershops where men harmonized while waiting for their haircuts.
Quiz
- What year was Sweet Adelines founded?
- What are the four voice parts in barbershop music?
- What unique sound effect is associated with barbershop harmonies?
(Answers: 1. 1945; 2. Lead, Tenor, Baritone, Bass; 3. Ringing chords)
FAQs
Q: What is barbershop music?
A: It’s a style of a cappella singing with four-part harmony characterized by close harmonies and ringing chords.
Q: Who can join a barbershop group?
A: Anyone interested in singing can join; there are groups for men and women worldwide.
Q: Is there a difference between National Barbershop Music Appreciation Day and National Barbershop Quartet Day?
A: Yes, National Barbershop Quartet Day (April 11) focuses on quartets specifically, while this day celebrates all aspects of barbershop music.
Importance of National Barbershop Music Appreciation Day
This day highlights the cultural significance of barbershop music as an art form that fosters community through harmony. It also preserves a nostalgic yet evolving tradition that continues to inspire new generations.
Related
- National Barbershop Quartet Day (April 11)
- World Music Day
- International A Cappella Day
