THE SOCIETY FOR THE PRESERVATION AND ENCOURAGEMENT OF BARBER SHOP
QUARTET SINGING IN AMERICA'S (SPEBSQSA) 54TH ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF
HARMONY, AT THALIA MARA HALL, APRIL 26, 2003.

   The program featured a variety of ensembles. The first was the
all-male Magnolia Chorus, directed by Marsha Fortune, which sang
several favorites, including "Hello, Baby" and the "Sweetheart of
Sigma Chi". Further, two quartets - Dixie Sunrise and the Jackson
Four - drawn from the chorus membership - sang as well. The Sweet
Adelines, an all-female group also directed by Marsha followed,
singing - among other old favorites - "I Can't Give You Anything
But Love, Baby". The blend of all these was outstanding, as was
the close harmony made possible by the absence of instrumental
accompaniment.

   Two nationally recognized quartets then followed. The first was
Fanatix!, the female quartet 2002 Sweet Adeline International
Champions, whose songs included "When I Tell Them How Wonderful
You Are". Next was Fresstyle, the male quartet 2003 SPEBSQSA
International Quartet Runnerups, whose selections included "Paper
Doll" and "I'll Fly Away", and a tenor whose ability to hold a
note seemed to approach infinity! These two groups were a real
treat, and also reminded the audience of the larger world of
barbershop singing.

   Mara Hall's acoustics are not friendly to choral groups,
especially those who prefer not to use microphones (light to
moderate amplification was used here, but only sparingly). It is
my belief that a smaller venue with better acoustics would
serve the Festival of Harmony and its audience well. Perhaps that
can be explored. In any case my hat is off to the Jackson Chapter
of SPEBSQSA, which has demonstrated real staying power. At age 54,
it is one of the oldest arts organizations in the city. I wish it
another successful half-century!
                                                - Glenn A. Gentry