Our Society's April 11 birthday can be the occasion for nice bread-and-butter press coverage, like this article featuring the Manitowoc, Wisconsin, Clipper City Chordsmen. The reporter nicely covers not only the history of the style and Society, but more importantly, the key emotional rewards of singing together:
Bruce Beyer points out that “For me, the camaraderie and friendship are the biggest parts of belonging to this group.” Tim Steffen adds that “Being a part of this chorus is like being a part of a big family. Everybody works together for a common goal.”
At age 93, Marv Lishka has been a member of the chorus for 43 years. He says, “I wouldn’t still be here if it weren't for these guys.”
Roger Gottschalk has been a barbershopper for 64 years; 55 of those years singing with the Clipper City Chordsmen in Manitowoc. He says: “I was an only child, but I now have family all over the world. These are all my brothers!”
Read more: Chordsmen celebrate Barbershop Quartet Day.