How do I learn more about MNC?

Drop us a note with your contact information, and we'll be in touch. Visitors are always welcome at our rehearsals - we can't wait to meet you!

What is Barbershop?

Barbershop music is a style of unaccompanied vocal harmony characterized by four voices singing close-knit chords, often with ringing overtones. Typically performed by quartets or choruses, it features a lead melody, a tenor harmonizing above the lead, a bass providing the foundational low notes, and a baritone filling in the crucial harmonies. The emphasis is on precise tuning and blending to create a rich, resonant sound, often incorporating sentimental or lighthearted songs with engaging storytelling.

Visit the Sweet Adelines site for some interesting definitions and details about barbershop.

Do I have to read music?

No. About half our members read music, but it’s not a requirement. We learn new songs with learning tracks, recordings of the four parts alone and together. You’ll learn quickly, whether you read music or not.

How often do you rehearse?

We rehearse weekly and sometimes add special rehearsals for coaching or upcoming performances.

Will I have to sing alone?

Since our art form requires four parts, we rarely do anything alone! There may be a few opportunities for a soloist to sing a few lines, but most of the time, we sing together and build on each other’s voices. New members “audition” by recording themselves on the risers during chorus rehearsal.

Am I good enough?

Yes! If you can carry a tune, are willing to learn, and have the desire to perform, you have everything you need to succeed at singing barbershop.

What are the benefits of membership?

As a member, the organization becomes yours. The programs are planned by members for members. You’ll discover that the opportunities available through Sweet Adelines International are almost unlimited. Membership in Sweet Adelines International provides superb, unmatched vocal education; affiliation with our international organization and thousands of members around the world; the support and knowledge such an organization has to offer; discounts on products and music arrangements; special music arrangements only available to members; subscription to The Pitch Pipe and other regular publications; and the “intangibles” such as increased self-esteem, friendship, and emotional support.

Is there an age limit?

Our members range from 18 to 80+, and all are welcome to join in the fun and work toward common goals.  Please see the Youth Membership page for more details for members 18-25.  

It sounds like a lot of fun---is it really?

It's incredibly fun -- and incredibly challenging! It's keeps you young and engaged and involved. It lets you indulge your "inner diva" and enjoy applause...while you work hard to learn new skills. You'll make lifelong friends...and there's even evidence that it's good for your health:

"People who sing are healthier than people who don’t. Singing gives the lungs a workout, tones abdominal and intercostal muscles and the diaphragm, and stimulates circulation. It makes us breathe more deeply than many forms of strenuous exercise, so we take in more oxygen, improve aerobic capacity and experience a release of muscle tension as well. " 

— Professor Graham Welch, Director of Educational Research, University of Surrey, Roehampton, UK