What are the Origins of Barbershop Singing?

Although no one is quite certain just how or when it all began, there is no doubt that Barbershop harmony is an important part of American musical heritage. From simple beginnings of old street corner barbershop singing and improvising three parts to one melody in the 1860’s; what once was considered folk singing has now developed into a complex, technically precise and challenging musical medium. This style of singing can be put to just about any kind of music including Musical Theatre, Pop, Jazz, Swing, ballad, blues and popular contemporary tunes. To learn more about the history of Barbershopping, visit the site of the Barbershop Harmony Society (formerly known as the SPEBSQSA - Society for the Preservation and Encouragement of Barber Shop Quartet Singing in America, inc.)