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Essentials in
Chapter business
Chapter Management Guide 2004
The magnum opus on all facets of chapter operations.
Updated: 11/11/2003 3:43:00 PM
7 Performance
7.1 Rehearsal leads to performance
Over the years, barbershop harmony has evolved into a recognized art form. Today, four-part harmony is more than a mundane presentation in a concert setting, it is sophisticated musical entertainment. Barbershop music competes with other types of entertainment for the public's attention. As a result, we must present our music in an entertaining format to attract the public to this form of entertainment and retain chapter members.
Commit to musical excellence and be the best that you can be. Whether your chapter is at a basic, intermediate or advanced level, your performances can have an impact on other areas of chapter life such as membership and financial health. Performance activities should reflect the goals and desires of your chapter members.
7.1.1 Use the performance manual
Successful Performance for the Quartet and Chorus ( stock no. 4055) is SPEBSQSA's definitive guide to all manner of performance issues. Topics covered include:
- Types of Performances
- Performance Objectives
- The Musical Plan
- Variety
- The Spokesman
- Professionalism
- The Business Side
- Sample Program Outline
- Audio-visual Aids
- Example of a Quartet Performance
- Lighting
- Make-up Technique
- Attire
- Sample Introduction
- Sound Reinforcement of Choruses, Quartets and Other Mysteries
- Quartet Information Sample
- Contract Suggestions.
- Business Agent Checklist
- Energy Development
- Visual Interpretation
- How Much is Enough?
- Theater Traditions
- Music Selection
- What is Barbershop?
- Performance Guidelines
- A Method for Developing Performance Energy
- The Use of Drugs for Stage Fright
7.1.2 Performance standards and requirements
RESOURCES
- Music Leadership Team Manual ( stock no. 4042), Standards and Requirements
7.2 Performance—Basic Level Activities
“When a quartet or chorus has learned its notes and words, matched its vowels, interpreted its music, polished its choreography and has uniforms, there’s only one thing left to do: perform!”
Following are some activities that a chapter may achieve at a basic level:
7.2.1 Gang sing in private
Make gang singing a fun-filled, regular part of each chapter meeting. Encourage members to sing songs freely, from beginning to end, without stops or corrections. For variety, sing Barberpole Cat tunes and at the end of each phrase, have singers change parts and sing any other part for the following phrase. Many singers have heard the chords to the Barberpole Cat songs and can easily woodshed another part.
7.2.2 Give charity performances for specific audiences
Arrange performances for audiences that lack critical discernment, such as nursing homes. Those appearances give singers experience and provide entertainment to the audience.
7.2.3 Establish a Harmony for Lunch Bunch
This is a popular activity that may provide business associates or other singing friends with an ideal introduction to barbershopping. Survey your chapter and other chapters in the area to see if at least four men would be available one noon-hour a week for lunch and a bit of harmony. Book a few tables or a private room at a centrally located, restaurant and invite a non-Barbershoppers to come with you. Ground rules? No dues, no speeches and no business Just a pitch pipe, a good appetite and a few songs.
7.2.4 Create a basic package
Maintain and continue to improve a repertoire of the best-performed and best-liked chorus songs. Add new songs to challenge members to learn new songs. The repertoire will change according to your schedule and activities, such as Christmas or Independence Day celebrations.
Contact your District Vice President for Music and Performance (DVP-M&P) to help you select an appropriate repertoire that can make a chorus sound better than it really is. The repertoire is likely to include uptunes, novelty numbers, simple arrangements and more than the number of songs that would be familiar to the public. Ask the DVP-M&P about obtaining a musical coach to help teach the new repertoire.
Consider the following when creating your basic package:
- Is it barbershop? The Society's primary purpose is to preserve and encourage our unique style. Do the songs support the Society's stated mission?
- Degree of difficulty. Can the chorus handle it? Do you have the correct balance of parts? Is the range appropriate? Do you have a mix of easy and difficult songs?
- Visual presentation possibilities. Shows should be entertaining. Do the songs convey an appropriate visual mood? Can the chorus handle the body movement and facial expressions necessary to sell a particular song?
- Scripting. What scripts do you need to write? How will the emcee and chapter quartets fit into the presentation?
- Competition songs. Will the chorus score well with the songs in all categories? Check out the material with judges ahead of time.
- Is the music appealing to all audiences? Strive to maintain wholesome, family-oriented entertainment values.
- Does the music further the chapter's membership goals? If the chapter represents barbershop harmony as a hobby that is easy and fun, the music should reflect that.
RESOURCES
- SPEBSQSA Music Catalog (on-line)
- Legal Arrangements on file with Old Songs Library
- Music Premiere Program
- Free 'N Easy Series (available on-line)
7.2.5 Hold a cabaret and other informal “just us” shows
Keep your performances simple. Your chapter may want to hold a cabaret night for members and immediate family or other informal “just us” shows. These low-profile performances give the chapter an opportunity to practice its repertoire, gain experience and build confidence.
7.2.6 Teach chapter members the fundamentals of body language and expression
Introduce singers to critical components of every performance—body language and expression. Visual interpretation is challenging, but can also be enjoyable and fun.
7.3 Performance—Intermediate Level Activities
At this stage, a chapter has achieved a moderate degree of singing proficiency. The chorus/quartet members have a solid repertoire, due to their ability, are able to make public performances. Following are activities a chapter may pursue at this level.
7.3.1 Develop a repertoire that supports your chapter’s performance goals
Barbershoppers want to sing! At this level of proficiency a chapter should find creative and fun ways to keep its chorus and quartets singing. This means developing a repertoire that supports the chapter's performance goals. Ask your members what they want, consult with your music team or music representatives from the Society and put together a program that promotes your vision.
7.3.2 Establish performance standards
RESOURCES
- Music Leadership Team Manual ( stock no. 4042), Performing Chorus Standards
7.3.3 Develop a contest package
The public is usually unaware that there are barbershop harmony contests held every year as these contests usually take place away from public view. These performances can bring out the best that a chapter chorus or quartet has to offer. A chapter should discuss its contest package, and participation, during its annual planning session. This package should address everything from content to attire. And it should reflect the goals and objectives of the chapter.
RESOURCES
- Contact your DVP for Contest and Judging or Music and Performance for more information.
- Successful Performance for the Quartet and Chorus ( stock no. 4055) Sources for songs
- SPEBSQSA Music Catalog (on-line)
- Legal Arrangements on file with Old Songs Library
- Music Premiere series ( stock no. 2021)
- Free 'N Easy Series (available on-line)
7.3.4 Provide members with emcee or spokesman training
Time between songs is important. A spokesman keeps the pace lively and entertaining and provides singers with an occasional rest. The spokesman is also the performing group's representative. This is a critical role, and at an intermediate level a chapter should provide that person with emcee or spokesman training.
Refer them to material available through the Society including the Master of Ceremonies Manual ( stock no. 4054). The manual covers topics from segues and delivery techniques to visual considerations and stage fright. Sections include:
- The Emcee's Craft
- The Show Emcee
- The Contest Emcee
- The Quartet Spokesman
- The Chorus Spokesman
- The Society Spokesman
- Information Request for Chapter Show Appearance
- Master of Ceremonies Worksheet
There is also an extensive bibliography of books that provide information about performance in general, body language, presentation skills, song titles, composers and histories of music.
RESOURCES
- The Master of Ceremonies Manual ( stock no. 4054)
7.3.5 Encourage personal expression and mood generation when you perform
At an intermediate level, singers have a fair degree of comfort and proficiency with the music they are singing. When performing at this level they should be making the music come to life through personal expression (facial expression and involvement) and mood generation. During rehearsals, encourage and teach members to feel what they are singing.
Encourage members to enroll in Society education programs such as Harmony College, Directors College or district schools. Contact the Music Education and Services Department at the Society office for more information. Department professionals conduct numerous workshops for directors, coaches and music teachers who then teach other Barbershoppers the finer points of singing and performance.
7.3.6 Plan and perform an annual show
For many chapters, the annual show is the biggest event of the year. It is often the showcase for the chapter's new music and the chief fund-raiser for the group. Chapter members must work to
Select the musical program.
- Prepare the script.
- Arrange for lighting and sound.
- Sell the ads and handle publicity.
- Involve local music groups
- Sell tickets to relatives, friends, business associates and other Barbershoppers).
- Host an afterglow party.
- To encourage membership growth and additional community exposure, hold a guest night immediately following the show.
RESOURCES
- The Music Leadership Team Manual ( stock no. 4042), 2.16 Show Chairman and Show Director
- Successful Performance for the Quartet and Chorus ( stock no. 4055)
- Chapter Marketing Ideas ( stock no. 4083 and on-line), Chapter Shows, p. 6,
- The Master of Ceremonies Manual ( stock no. 4054), The Show Emcee, p. 13
7.3.7 Package and promote your shows
Develop performance opportunities by packaging your shows and promoting them. Performing on a regular basis will make competition easier and increase your recognition in the community. Consider contacting representatives at these sources for possible performances:
- Previous audiences. Most jobs come from people who have already seen the chorus perform.
- Booking agents. Agents make performance arrangements for a charged fee.
- Convention and Visitors Bureau. Join your local organization and make sure to check the calendar of local conventions.
- Chamber of Commerce. They can generate performance leads and generate community awareness about your chapter chorus or quartets.
- Barbershop community. Perform for other chapters. A larger chorus and its quartets at a smaller chapter’s provide revenue and attract new members.
- Hotel convention sales staff. Develop business relationships with staff and invite them to your show.
- Government. Do free shows for city government to increase your recognition, which might pay off when it comes time to apply for grants or obtain permission to use municipal property.
- Associations. Contact local organizations such as the Hotel Sales Management Association (HSMA), the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) and Meeting Planners International (MPI).
- Community support groups. Join groups that support the performing arts in your community. Such groups help the chapter better manage itself better and may offer training in writing grant proposals or help in developing computerized mailing lists. Stage joint events to increase your profile and revenue-generating ability.
- Media. Make friends with the media. Give them free tickets to the event or invite them to cover a performance.
- Charity Groups. Perform for a charitable organization and ask them, as part of payment, to mention your performance in their newsletter.
- Service Clubs. Service club performances are a good way to gain members, pick up performances and boost potential sales of tickets or ads.
RESOURCES
- Chapter Marketing Ideas ( stock no. 4083 and on-line) Developing Performance Opportunities, pp. 4-5
7.4 Performance—Advanced Level Activities
A chapter with a high degree of musical proficiency should plan its performances to fit into the chapter's competition schedule, provide the chorus or quartets with maximum exposure in the community and provide revenue-generating opportunities. Performances should reflect the chapter's performance goals.
7.4.1 Develop and perform theatrical shows
Introduce variety into your performances. Here are just a few theatrical ideas:
- Audience participation. Involve the audience in the act. Draw them into your program. Have them perform rhythmic hand clapping, lead them in a brief sing-along or incorporate the audience's name or locale into the performance.
- Invite local school or community music groups to perform with you.
- Develop a thematic package. A thematic performance can recreate memories for the audience, inspire the audience's imagination, convey an entertaining story with familiar music and maintain more audience involvement than a conventional package.
- Introduce visual variety. Visual variety maintains audience interest. Costume changes, props, lighting changes and choreography keep the performance visually stimulating.
7.4.2 Arrange for multiple spokesman presentations
A chorus may choose to use more than one spokesman in a performance. The use of multiple spokesmen can lend a sense of variety for the act, lessen the workload for each spokesman, help develop a sense of team play and encourage quartet or chorus members to develop their talents.
7.4.3 Create emcee learning tapes
Help interested individuals in your chapter learn the emcee craft by creating learning tapes that cover everything from pitch and inflection to rehearsal and delivery techniques. A Barbershopper can serve as an emcee in a variety of ways:
- As master of ceremonies for a show
- As master of ceremonies for a contest
- As quartet spokesman
- As chorus spokesman at an annual show or other performance
- As a Society spokesman to other groups
7.4.4 Arrange for performances at high-profile venues
Be heard and seen at high-profile venues that are more likely to attract larger and more diverse audiences. Such performances can boost your public image, be financially rewarding and even help attract new members.
7.4.5 Arrange joint performances with symphonies or notable arts groups
Join forces with symphonies or notable arts groups and arrange for joint performances. Such appearances can help a chapter:
- Reach out to new markets
- Increase community profile
- Make marketing efforts more efficient (i.e. joint ticket sales)
- Help attract new members
- Generate additional revenue
7.4.6 Develop and practice a high level of stagecraft
A top-notch chorus or quartet exhibits a high level of stagecraft that it achieves through planning and practice. Make sure that every man knows his part and evaluate the group's performance by observing singers live or on videotape.
Use choreography drills as a warm-up at the start of your regular meeting. Put on a tape of the chorus and have members practice mounting the risers and practice their choreography as they arrive. Visual coaches and row captains can observe and give individual help.
Support and encourage your members to attend Society educational programs such as Harmony College, Directors College or district schools. Contact your District Vice President for Music and Performance for specific stagecraft coaching opportunities.
The music team determines the success of a chapter's performance goals. Select a music team that provides strong musical instruction so the individual member will derive the greatest satisfaction from his barbershop experience. The size and talent of the chapter determine the nature and the number of men on the music team.
This section of the Chapter Management Guide describes possible music team positions grouped according to basic, intermediate and advanced levels of musical proficiency. In some instances basic configurations may apply to smaller chapters while advanced positions might apply to larger chapters. It’s possible that some smaller, musically talented chapters may use all suggested music team positions. Conversely, a larger chapter with less ambitious musical performance goals may choose to have just a few music team members.
RESOURCES
- All activities referenced in this chapter are discussed at length in the Music Leadership Team Manual ( stock no. 4042). The brief descriptions provided herein serve as a basic outline.
8.1 Chapter Music Team—Basic Level Activities
8.1.1 Vice President Music and Performance
8.1.2 All other basic level activities
8.1.3 Librarian
8.1.4 Chorus Director
8.1.5 Chorus Manager
8.1.6 Quartet Activity Chairman
8.1.7 Young Men In Harmony Chairman
8.2 Chapter Music Team—Intermediate Level Activities
All positions in 8.1 plus:
8.2.1 Assistant Director(s)
8.2.2 Row Captains
8.2.3 Sections Leaders
8.2.4 Teaching Quartet
8.2.5 Contest Coordinator
8.2.6 Wardrobe Manager
8.2.7 Makeup Manager
8.2.8 Property Manager assistant director(s)
8.3 Chapter Music Team—Advanced Level Activities
All positions in 8.1 and 8.2 plus:
8.3.1 Vocal Performance Coach(es)
8.3.2 Visual Performance Coach(es)
8.4 Standing Ovation Program
The Standing Ovation Program is an opportunity for your chapter’s chorus and quartets to be evaluated in their public performance presentations by a trained SOP Evaluator. Evaluators are trained to observe the overall performance of a chorus or quartet and make suggestions and recommendations to improve the entire package.
This is a voluntary program. The Standing Ovation evaluator identifies performance strengths and weaknesses, then offers resources that may provide direct and positive assistance. No results are reported to the Society or any of its committees; the evaluation is strictly between the chorus or quartet being evaluated and the evaluator. To participate, contact your District Vice President for Music and Performance (DVP-M&P).
8.4.1 Guidelines, procedures and criteria for performance evaluation
After receiving a request from a chapter chorus or quartet, a Standing Ovation Program evaluator is assigned by the DVP-M&P to make a scheduled chapter visit with the purpose of observing, evaluating and providing feedback on a 20- to 40-minute performance of the chapter chorus or quartet.
The visit will be scheduled at the mutual convenience of the chorus/quartet and the Standing Ovation Program evaluator. The district or the chorus/quartet, per district policy, will reimburse the travel expenses of the evaluator.
Preparation
The chorus/quartet will prepare a 20- to 40-minute performance, designed to reflect the group's public presentation. Consider the following aspects:
- Music selection, including presentation of the barbershop style
- Quality of singing, musicality and presentation
- Song sequencing for entertaining flow
- Non-singing comments (master of ceremonies, scripted act, etc.)
- Entrance and exit deportment
- Costuming and grooming
- Overall entertainment value
- Technical matters (lighting, sound, microphones, etc.); this may need to be explained to the evaluator if the performance is not given in a theater setting.
Procedure
- The chorus/quartet will perform its show package for the evaluator.
- The evaluator will complete an evaluation form, which is given to the performing group, and offer recommendations for improvement and training opportunities.
Criteria used in the evaluation
- Use of songs in the barbershop style, as defined in the Society Contest and Judging Handbook. The amount and number of such songs is not defined, nor is a restriction intended.
- Correct notes, words, intonation, energy and musicality
- Positive staging stance, expression of face and body and an appearance of enjoyment in performing
- A master of ceremonies' performance should be well-planned, delivered with a minimum of distraction and consistently characterized by material in good taste.
- Costume will be evaluated as to fit, appropriateness to the group and stage worthiness.
- Grooming will be evaluated as to stage worthiness, neatness and overall appearance.
- Any other issues that may be relevant to the Society bylaws or statements of policy
8.5 Music & Performance Resource Information
All items are available from Harmony Marketplace. Refer to the catalog and call 800-876-SING to order or go on-line to www.harmonymarketplace.com
Music & Performance Resource Information |
||
Singing/Vocal Techniques |
||
A Road to Better Singing (The Paul Mayo tape included) |
Paul Mayo |
|
“A Voice Building Program for the Warm-up Period” Video |
Bob Mucha |
|
Improving Vocal Techniques Through the Warm-Up |
Mel Knight, ed. |
|
Sing-Along Songs |
SPEBSQSA |
|
Music Theory |
||
Barbershop Arranging Manual |
Dave Stevens, ed. |
|
Music Fundamentals for Barbershoppers |
Burt Szabo |
|
Music Reading 1 |
Burt Szabo |
|
Music Reading 2 |
Burt Szabo |
|
Theory of Barbershop Harmony |
Burt Szabo |
|
Performance |
||
SPEBSQSA Music Catalog |
SPEBSQSA |
on-line |
“Chorus Performance: Look Out World” Video |
Gary Stamm |
4047 |
Contest and Judging Handbook |
SPEBSQSA |
on-line |
Copyright Laws and SPEBSQSA |
SPEBSQSA |
on-line |
“Earning the Standing Ovation with Lloyd Steinkamp” Video |
SPEBSQSA |
|
“Entertainment According to Bub Thomas” Video |
SPEBSQSA |
|
“Lou Perry on Barbershop Singing” Video |
SPEBSQSA |
|
The Master of Ceremonies Manual |
Ev Nau |
|
Old Songs Library Legal Unpublished Arrangements |
SPEBSQSA |
on-line |
Show Production Manual |
Rashleigh, ed. |
|
Successful Performance for the Quartet and Chorus |
Ev Nau |
|
Successful Singing Valentines |
SPEBSQSA |
4058 and on-line |
Directing |
||
“Directing a Barbershop Chorus” |
Lyne/Rashleigh |
|
“Building a Better Chorus” Video |
Lyne |
|
Repertoire |
||
Barberpole Cat Program and Song Book |
||
Barbershop Potpourri Song Book |
||
Heritage of Harmony 50th Anniversary Song Book |
||
Just Plain Barbershop Song Book |
||
Songs of Inspiration Song Book |
||
Strictly Barbershop Song Book |
||
Yuletide Favorites Song Book |
||
The Wonderful Songs of Yesterday |
||
Barbershop Style/History |
||
“What Are We Trying To Preserve?” Video |
Stevens |
|
“The World's Greatest Baritone” Video |
Palmquist |
|
Community Sing |
||
Get America Singing...Again! |
||
Singer's Edition |
||
Singer's Edition (10-pack) |
||
Piano/Vocal/Guitar Edition |
||
Men’s Holiday Chorus |
||
United We Sing |
Nau/Savoie |
|
Woodshedding/Tags |
||
Pocketful of Tags #1 |
Szabo, ed. |
|
Pocketful of Tags #2 |
Szabo, ed. |
|
Pocketful of Tags #3 |
Szabo, ed. |
|
The Pocket Woodshedder #1 |
Szabo, ed. |
|
Woodshedding Folio #1 |
Szabo, ed. |
|
Chapter Administration |
||
Bulletin Editors Manual |
Craig Rigg |
|
Chapter Marketing Ideas |
SPEBSQSA |
|
The Music Leadership Team |
SPEBSQSA |
|
PROBE Style Manual |
Craig Rigg |
|
You Are Now A Barbershopper |
SPEBSQSA |
|
Public Relations |
||
PR Radio Toolkit (CD) |
SPEBSQSA |
|
Young Men In Harmony |
||
An Introduction to Barbershop Singing for Youth Song Book |
Gentry, ed. |
|
Young Men In Harmony Resource Guide |
Steinkamp/ Rashleigh, eds. |
and on-line |
Music Educators Packet |
||
Quartet Development |
||
An Information Manual for Barbershop Quartets |
SPEBSQSA |
4093 and on-line |
SPEBSQSA Show Scripts |
||
A Great Day for the Irish |
Gore |
|
Back to the ’90s |
Stamm |
|
Chorus Performance Package: Look Out, World! |
Stamm |
|
College Days First Script Second Script |
Rashleigh Rashleigh |
|
Grandpa's Attic |
Rashleigh |
|
Heritage of Harmony |
Stamm |
|
“Polecat Sing-out Script” |
Nau |
|
Phantom of the Barbershop |
Stamm |
|
Planes, Trains and Automobiles |
Savoie |
|
Remember Radio |
Schuler |
|
Salute to America |
SPEBSQSA |
|
Something to Cheer About |
Nau |
|
Songs America Sings |
SPEBSQSA |
|
Songs for all Seasons |
SPEBSQSA |
|
Southern Memories |
SPEBSQSA |
|
The Barbershop Time Machine |
Stamm |
|
The Melody Lingers On |
Nau |
|
Through the Years |
Rashleigh |
|
Time of Your Life |
’83 Script Class |
|
What the Dickens? (A Partridge In A Parody) |
Stamm |
|
Whistle Stop Barbershop |
Stamm |
|
Winter Wonderland (Performance Package) |
Nau |
|
You Ain't Heard Nothin' Yet |
Stamm |
9 Marketing and Public Relations
When you want to:
- Attract new chapter members.
- Encourage the community to attend an annual show.
- Promote a barbershop convention.
- Get young singers to attend an event.
- Promote your chapter, chorus or quartet.
- Become better known in your community.
Your marketing and public relations effort should involve strategic planning, positive action, a thorough follow-up and evaluation.
Marketing and public relations are about communications. Many definitions exist for these two terms. Marketing attempts to develop, deliver and package a message or product for sale. Public relations creates awareness or recognition about that message or product. Public relations deals with internal and external individuals and/or groups affected by a chapter's activities within and outside of the Society.
Creative promotion of one event can have a significant impact on another aspect of your chapter’s program. For example, an effective public relations campaign to promote the reputation of a talented quartet can enhance a chapter's youth outreach program. Likewise, a weak marketing campaign can hinder the success of a recruitment campaign, which would adversely affect chapter membership.
The activities that a chapter and its leadership team choose to pursue are a reflection of that chapter’s desire to succeed, its vision of success and the skills of its members.
9.1 Marketing & Public Relations—Basic Level Activities
9.1.1 Acquire and distribute Society barbershop materials
Every chapter should have an appropriate supply of marketing materials. Many items are available from the Society at no cost, others for a modest charge. These publications will help guide you and your team when you want to create a newsletter, write a press release, promote a chapter event or orient existing or prospective members in Society matters.
9.1.2 Develop a chapter fact sheet that includes:
- Chapter charter date
- Chorus and quartet awards
- Names of chapter president and chorus director (If the fact sheet is expensive to print, delete information that changes regularly, such as presidents. It limits the life of the piece and is expensive to correct/update each year)
- Registered quartets.
- Community activity and involvement of the chapter.
- Harmony Foundation and other charitable activities of the chapter.
- Activities at which the chorus and quartets perform
- Contact person’s name, address, phone number and e-mail address. If there is a chapter phone number, then list that number. Chapter phone should have an answering machine.
- A recent photograph of your chorus, quartets and small photo of your chorus director
Make the kit simple and inexpensive using existing materials already on hand. Add to it as your marketing plan begins to generate revenue.
Design business cards that list the chapter’s phone number, e-mail and Web site addresses, and location, day and time of the meetings. Cards should be available to all chapter members as a handout to potential members. Create other cards for specific people such as the chapter president or chorus director containing contact information.
RESOURCES
- www.spebsqsa.org > Who We Are > Press Kit
- www.spebsqsa.org > Run Your Chapter > PR
- Media kits ( stock no. 4226)
- What is SPEBSQSA ( stock no. 4244)
- Introducing SPEBSQSA ( stock no. 4204)
- Origins of Barbershop Harmony ( stock no. 4220)
- Celebrities in Barbershopping ( stock no. 4251)
- SPEBSQSA Fact Sheet ( stock no. 4224)
- Radio Tool Kit CD ( stock no. 4203)
- An Invitation to Join Us in Song ( stock no. 4205)
- Harmonize for Retirement Recreation ( stock no.4346)
- You Are Now a Barbershopper ( stock no. 4094)
- Pattern News Releases and How to Use Them ( stock no. 4112 - disk, stock no. 4113)
- PROBE Style Manual (www.harmonize.com/probe)
- Bulletin Editors Manual (www.harmonize.com/probe)
- Barbergraphics ( stock no. 22075)
- Folder to put the material in (from the Society stock no. 3536 or purchased from printer)
9.1.3 Take a chorus/quartet photo
Visuals sell a story. A current quality photograph of your chorus can support your chapter public relations program whether you submit the photo to a local newspaper with a press release, use it on a poster to advertise an upcoming event or place it in a chapter program, flyer or brochure.
Have 5x7 or 8x10 color photos or transparencies for use by newspapers, newsletters, magazines or, television stations. Color shots can be printed in black & white by any newspaper or by a printer in a flyer. Scan a photo and use the services of an on-line photo reproduction company such as Ofoto to obtain inexpensive quality copies
Except for chorus photos, when you submit a photograph to the media, identify all the people in the picture (from left to right; check name spellings) on a paper flap taped to the back of the photo. Chorus photos should not list singers’ names. Attach a note to each photograph to describe the occasion, date, time, place and any other essential information.
9.1.4 Publicize your activities on an event-by-event basis
Spread the word! Generate awareness and enthusiasm about your events and your chapter. Contact the media including newspapers, magazines, special-interest publications, radio, television and cable TV stations. Using the media will keep the chapter name in front of the public.
Have a plan of organization. Make your initial contact two or three months before the event. Keep in mind the specific needs of each media outlet. Inquire about deadlines and formats for submissions and follow them explicitly. Print media will tell the story through words and pictures; radio will want words and sounds; and television will require words, sounds, pictures and motion.
Use news releases to notify media about your events. Each release should be a complete package. Media outlets normally do not keep information. Release content should be newsworthy, timely and appropriate. You have a better chance of being noticed if your news release answers these six questions: who? what? where? when? why? and how?
News release checklist:
- Be sure it is news.
- Make it easy for media to handle.
- Give it a personal touch.
- Don't forget the value of a name.
- Keep it to one page, if possible.
- Choose one angle.
- Use quotes to humanize the story.
- Use lively writing.
- Clarify, then amplify
News release items to include:
- Logo, preferably letterhead or heading
- Date of issue
- Release date: (e.g. For Immediate Release)
- “Kill” date (last date information is to run)
- Contact name and phone number, office and home
- Headline—succinct and informative (headlines should be a sentence not a title)
- Indent paragraphs five spaces; double space; 1.5-inch margin.
- When a release runs more than one page, head each page with a shortened version of the headline.
- Releases running more than one page. Type “more” at the bottom of each page. Not the last page.
- On the last page, mark the end of the release with a -30- or #####.
RESOURCES
- Radio Tool Kit CD ( stock no. 4203)
- Pattern News Releases and How to Use Them ( stock no. 4112 - disk, stock no. 4113)
- www.spebsqsa.org > Run Your Chapter > PR
- www.spebsqsa.org > Who We Are > Press Kit
9.1.5 Make news by being a part of other peoples’ news
Contact other community groups such as service clubs, businesses, industries, schools, government agencies, convention and visitors bureaus, chambers of commerce and trade associations. Being active in the community introduces barbershop harmony to people who do not usually hear it and may help to recruit chapter members.
Involve the chapter in your performing arts community. If there is an active organization, join it. Community projects are news; when the chapter is involved, it has the opportunity to be included in the news spotlight.
9.1.6 Develop a recruiting flyer
New members keep a chapter alive. Every chapter should have a recruiting poster that lets people know who you are and when and where you meet. Your flyer, whether it's an 8-1/2 x 11- photocopied sheet or a full-color piece should carry the basic barbershop harmony message: that barbershop harmony is fun, easy, and you can do it, too! Tell the story through words, or better yet, with a picture as well.
Consider your budget, the audience you want to target and your distribution strategy to determine how many flyers you will need. Possible posting locations include:
- Public notice boards at community libraries, grocery stores, recreation centers and community centers
- Notice boards at schools, especially music departments
- Music stores.
- Day-care centers or other places where women are likely to notice them. (Never underestimate the persuasive powers of a woman with her fella!)
Use talented chapter members to design and create visual impact items. Just because you have access to a computer and a desktop publishing program does not mean you have the skills to put together an effective piece. When you come to the layout stage, consider using graphic images available from Society resources.
RESOURCES
- www.spebsqsa.org > Run Your Chapter > PR
- www.spebsqsa.org > Who We Are > Press Kit
- Barbergraphics—clip art on CD ( stock no. 22075)
- 12,000 Images Plus ( stock no.22077)
9.1.7 Develop a show poster
Probably no single activity during the year will receive more attention from your chapter members or the community than the annual show. A successful promotion attracts a larger audience and adds dollars to the treasury. While most ticket sales are made by members, selling is easier when the public has heard about the show.
Produce a show poster that announces your event including the date, time, location, ticket price and how/where to buy tickets. Include the Society logo, a contact name and information phone number. Follow the “Recruiting Flyer” suggestions described in 9.1.6.
9.1.8 Promote and use Society merchandise
Harmony Marketplace merchandise is not just for chapter members. Many items that feature the Society logo or a musical theme make great gifts.
Quartet and chorus recordings are outstanding ways to share the joy of barbershop harmony. Society Merchandise can be used in promotions as prizes, give-away items or raffle donations to enhance a chapter's profile.
RESOURCES
- Harmony Marketplace Catalog
- www.harmonymarketplace.com
9.1.9 Set up an e-mail address
E-mail is fast and economical. Set up an account for your chapter. E-mail is an effective way for you to communicate with the Society office, your membership or anyone in the community about chapter activities and events.
9.1.10 Promote Harmony Foundation
Develop local music outreach programs or assist local music groups.
9.2 Marketing & Public Relations—Intermediate Level Activities
Quality singing, creative volunteers and an appropriate budget are just a few of the things that help advance a chapter to this next level of marketing and public relations.
9.2.1 Build a chapter identity
Know who you are and what makes your chapter unique. Consider the diversity of your membership. While all members are there to experience barbershop harmony, every man is having different needs met. The overall character of your chapter defines your product
Members usually fall into four categories:
- Affiliators—who enjoy the social aspects of the hobby
- Competitors—who work to excel
- Leaders—who enjoy planning and directing activities
- Hobbyists—who sing for the sake of singing
Modify the message that “barbershop harmony is fun, easy and you can do it, too!” to fit the personality of your chapter.
For example, if the character of your chapter is competitive, your message might be:
“Barbershop harmony is easy because we have a tremendous education system, fun because you can perform and hear the applause, and you can do it, too, because look at us—we're average singers who are great together.”
By contrast, if the character of your chapter is more hobby-oriented your message might be:
“Barbershop harmony is easy because we offer self-paced instruction, and you can do it, too, because the only limits are your own desire.”
9.2.2 Design a chapter logo
Your logo should reflect your chapter's identity. While planning and input from chapter members is critical, a professional artist should produce the final product. It should:
- Be a rallying point for the chapter and build esprit de corps.
- Identify the chapter as a quality singing group.
- Be something that the chapter uses to adorn anything from banners and traveling jackets to business cards and stationery. A clean, crisp logo will reproduce well on letterhead or as a small version on business cards, etc. If you produce a color logo, make a black and white copy to determine if you’re satisfied with the way it looks.
- Be something that members will not get tired of using in the future.
9.2.3 Create and place media stories
Exposure is an essential ingredient for success. If your chapter wants to increase membership and become a known community resource, you will want to interact with the media. Keep in mind that the primary purpose of your media contact is visibility.
By giving media specific story ideas you help shape the message they deliver. With useful information, they can tell your story in such a way that the reader or listener might be inspired to respond to your message with action. Contact reporters, editors and producers with confidence. Let them know you've got a great story—be specific. Present stories, tailored to the needs of the medium, that will be of interest to its audience.
Consider these media opportunities:
- Print, radio and television
- Weekly newspapers
- Other publications such as special interest newsletters and company house organs
- Paid advertising
- On-air interviews.
- Public service announcements
- Specialty stations
Provide the media with:
- A hook—a creative outlook that draws in the audience, promising something entertaining or enlightening
- Illustrations—attractive visuals for print or television, quality audio for radio
- A message—why do you want exposure? What action do you wish to motivate in the audience, i.e. membership or ticket sales? Answer the who? what? where? when? why? and how? questions.
Media coverage of chapter activities is competitive with other chapters and with other arts groups. If your material is newsworthy and presented creatively, you will stand a better chance of being covered.
Chapter events/people to publicize:
- Election of officers
- Guest nights
- Contest participation
- Barbershopper of the year
- Annual schedule of activities
- Harmony Foundation or other donations
- COTS attendees
- Award of Harmony recipient
- Harmony Week (week of April 11)
- International convention attendees
- Chapter anniversaries
- New meeting location
- Local appearances
- New director
- Father-son combination sings.
RESOURCES
- Chapter Marketing Ideas ( stock no. 4083 and on-line)
- Radio Toolkit CD ( stock no. 4203)
- Bulletin Editors Manual (www.harmonize.com/probe)
- The Music Leadership Team Manual ( stock no. 4042),Copyright, pp. 35-37, Taping/Recording, p. 38
When a chorus or a quartet performs in public, the performers create a lasting impression, good or bad. Evaluation is particularly intense when it comes to radio and television appearances.
9.2.4 Develop a chapter promotional audio- or videotape
Quality promotional audio and videotapes are valuable marketing and publicity tools. When booking performances or generating publicity remember to follow copyright law. Contact the Society office for details.
9.2.5 Package and sell your performances
Chapters and quartets succeed in booking appearances because they create unique performance packages that meet community needs. A number of seniors quartets have found a rewarding niche performing for elementary school children who are delighted to hear songs from warm, trustworthy “granddads.”
Identify the markets you would like to pursue for performances. Then, design a package that fits those needs. This effort may help you craft a better, more focused package for contests.
9.2.6 Market the annual show to new audiences
In the Basic Level Chapter activity section, the annual show's audience is drawn from chapter members, family and friends. At an intermediate level, a chapter should heighten its efforts and reach further into the community. Chapters and their members can educate all public segments about barbershop harmony. The arts, business, government and media representatives are your markets. Good barbershop harmony should be part of the quality of life in a community.
RESOURCES
- Chapter Marketing Ideas ( stock no. 4083 and on-line), Developing Performance Opportunities, p. 4
- Successful Performance for the Quartet and Chorus ( stock no. 4055), Marketing the Act, p. 31
- www.spebsqsa.org > Run Your Chapter > PR
9.2.7 Marketing & Public Relations—Advanced Level Activities
A chapter operating at this level of proficiency has a strong identity and knows how to market itself to generate results. The chapter may enjoy a reasonable amount of public awareness in its community. The chapter continues to seek additional ways to enhance its image and its presence.
9.2.8 Create a chapter Web site
Let the world know about your chapter. Create a Web site. Make it as simple or as intricate as your time, talent and energy allow. Simply post information or make it interactive. You can include items such as upcoming events, chapter history, press releases and chorus or quartet photographs. Check out the Society Web site at www.spebsqsa.org and see what is currently on-line. The Society office can provide additional information.
RESOURCES
- www.spebsqsa.org > Run Your Chapter > PR
9.2.9 Establish a patron program
A patron or “friends of” program is a good way to include non-singing members of the community in the chapter family. The sphere of influence of a barbershop quartet or chorus can be large. Barbershoppers provide entertainment for businesses and conventions, for service clubs and at civic gatherings. They bring a smile to shut-ins, people at rest homes and hospitals. They bring enjoyment to senior citizens centers. And they raise funds for Harmony Foundation and other worthy causes.
Tap into these audiences and seek their support. Given the right information, a patron or friend of the chapter might be willing to donate time or money. For information on how to establish a patron program, contact the public relations staff at the Society office.
9.2.10 Develop affiliations and partnerships with professional organizations
There is strength in numbers. By developing affiliations and partnerships with professional organizations you can stretch your marketing dollar and deliver your marketing message. Start by being active in the community. Attend a local meeting of your convention and visitors bureau, town/city council or service club. Consider joining a local arts organization or forming one of your own to promote and/or lobby for the arts.
Be seen, be heard and be professional. You are representing not only your chapter, but the entire Society. For help and information on developing affiliations and partnerships, contact the public relations staff at the Society office.
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