Springtime, what can I do to pump up my chapter?

April 11th is an important day for me. It's the day I reflect upon what the Society means to me, how I've served the Society, and re-affirm my faith toward this style of music.

Why April 11th? 'Twas then in 1938 on the Rooftop Garden of the Alvin Hotel in Tulsa, Oklahoma, when O.C. Cash and Rupert Hall gathered 24 friends to "preserve the original music art form known as barbershop harmony." That's right, the very FIRST meeting of what is now an international vocal music education association with more than 33,000 members. So, it's time to assess your chapter's health, remember what works, and check on what needs fixing. As is my custom, I provide a checklist of "think about" items for you to stroll through:

? Did you write news releases for your new officers?
? Have you provided Harmony Month releases with shows and performances?
? Do you have a Society fact sheet, to go with your chapter fact sheet?
? Are recent issues of the chapter bulletin on a welcome table?
? Are we preparing a summertime activity for families?
? Can your county fair use a strolling quartet?
? Did you contact high school basketball and baseball teams to sing the "National Anthem?"
? Done a quick biography on your newest member?
? Maybe one on a 10-year, 20-year or charter member?
? Does everyone wear name badges?
? Done a background article for the bulletin about a new song you're learning?

Where can you get the information? Try the PR Department at the Society HQ, or the Old Songs Library, or the Harmony Marketplace, or even your local library! (Hey, how about singing for a children's hour at the Library?)

Take each moment and turn it into negotiations for outside opportunities, or information to spread to your chapter members. Be the hero!

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