Rules for 2018 SoCal
Comedy Quartet Contest

The barbershop style became immensely popular in the early twentieth century in vaudeville, where it developed into a stereotypical art form that persists to this day: Amusing or comedic routines centered around clean, catchy, easily remembered melodies and lyrics. In short, audience-pleasing entertainment. It was this kind of entertainment that O. C. Cash and Rupert Hall sought to “preserve and encourage” when they formed the organization now known as the Barbershop Harmony Society, and it is this same style that we desire to promote through this contest.

Judging will consider the quality of barbershop music as practiced by the Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS) practice. Certain areas will be relaxed in order to enhance the opportunities for comedic presentation. However, judging is not bound by formal BHS rules and may consider audience reaction and intangible comedy considerations. JUDGES HAVE FULL DISCRETION AND THEIR DECISION IS FINAL

Here is an outline that will serve to guide quartets in preparing their performances.

1. Eligibility – Entrants will be barbershop quartets. Four people singing tenor, lead, baritone and bass. Quartets members may be either male or female (however note rule on non-BHS members, below.) Quartet registration with BHS is not required, but the quartet must have a name that is not offensive.

Membership Requirement: On the date of the contest, at least ONE member of the quartet must be a current, dues-paid members of the Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS), OR
A current member of BHS must be listed as Coach/Sponsor on the application forms, and in so doing vouch that they have coached or verified the quartet is singing in the barbershop style.

2. Singing - Emphasis will be on good vocal production. Comedy shtick should be secondary.

3. Music – Adherence to strict rules of barbershop will not be required as long as the general barbershop harmony structure (TLBB) is observed. No musical instruments may be used. Kazoos are permitted. Quartet members may sing solos, different words from each other, or use syncopation and other timing gimmicks to produce the comedic effect. Strange chords will be permitted, again to enhance the entertainment of the audience. Lyrics must be in good taste.

4. Presentation – Each quartet will present two songs within approximately six minutes. Between-song patter may or may not be used. Costumes and props that promote the theme of the presentation are encouraged, but should not detract from the main goal of good singing.

As Posted on orange.harmonize.com – 8/14/2018