Harmony University 2021 Cancellation
The Barbershop Harmony Society has made the difficult decision to cancel our 2021 Harmony University, held on the campus of Belmont University in Nashville. While we are hopeful about the new vaccines and look forward to declining infection rates, the ongoing challenges of general uncertainty and COVID safety measures in an environment with shared dorm housing and group meals make it very difficult for us to ensure safe social distancing for our students. We are pleased to announce that with the success of our 2020 event, the Barbershop Harmony Society will again offer Virtual Harmony University, currently being planned for July.
While the timing of the events is similar, the decision to cancel Harmony University Belmont is not connected to decisions about the BHS International Convention in Cleveland, Ohio this summer. At this time, we are still planning for an in-person event in Cleveland. Regretfully, the decision is being made now regarding in-person Harmony University due to the different nature of the two events.
- Harmony University is built on 7 days of deep immersion, daily close physical interaction with faculty and students, group meals, general sessions, and shared housing for staff, faculty, and students from all over the world, housed in college dormitories.
- The BHS International convention is traditionally 2-5 days of attendance, with ample opportunities for social distancing, groups and families able to isolate together in hotel rooms all over the city, and distanced seating options in performance venues. Unlike HU, it is possible to limit participation, maintain small social groups, or opt-out of activities at any given time.
Refunds are available for our students who carried over funds from the previous year, as well as options to transfer the registration to HU 2022 or the 2021 Virtual Midwinter Convention. All registered students have received an email message with more details and next steps.
To say we are heartbroken about canceling our flagship education event for the second summer in a row would be an understatement. At the same time, we are excited about expanding on the success of VHU 2020 and all the possibilities offered by a virtual format. We look forward to welcoming even more barbershop participants in July.
If you have specific questions, you can access our Frequently Asked Questions below.
Frequently Asked Questions
General Information
Why is Harmony University 2021 being canceled?
While we are hopeful about the new vaccines and look forward to declining infection rates, the ongoing challenges of general uncertainty and COVID safety measures in an environment with shared dorm housing and group meals make it very difficult for us to ensure safe social distancing for our students.
Are you also canceling International in Cleveland?
No. The decision to cancel HU Belmont 2021 is NOT connected to the decision to hold the BHS international convention in Cleveland, Ohio, this summer.
- Harmony University is built on 7 days of deep immersion, close physical interaction with faculty and students, group meals, general sessions, shared bathroom space with rooming for staff, faculty and students from all over the world, housed in college dormitories.
- The BHS International convention is traditionally 2-5 days of attendance, with ample opportunities for social distancing, groups and families isolating together in hotel rooms all over the city and in performance venues with opt in or opt out activities the entire time.
Are you offering Virtual Harmony University again?
Yes. Now that we have officially canceled the event at Belmont, our Music Education team is focusing on our second Virtual Harmony University, currently being developed for a live, interactive online experience in July 2021. Once plans are confirmed, registration information will be shared more widely.
Registrations
Can I transfer my registration to Harmony University 2022?
Yes. For the students who carried over your 2020 registration, you will have the option to transfer it to 2022 at the 2020 price.
Can I get a refund for my Harmony University registration?
Yes. We will be reaching out to attendees by January 22nd with this information about a full refund.
Can I donate what I paid for my registration to support BHS programs?
Yes, and thank you! We will be reaching out to registered students by January 22nd with information on how to make a full or partial donation.
Can I use my registration for Virtual Harmony University?
Yes! You have the option that will allow you to use part of your tuition to join us at our second Virtual Harmony University, with the rest of your tuition refunded, donated to the Barbershop Harmony Society, or a combination of the two.
Can I use my registration for Virtual Midwinter?
Yes! You have the option that will allow you to use part of your tuition to join us at our Virtual Midwinter, January 28 -31st, with the rest of your tuition refunded, donated to the Barbershop Harmony Society, or a combination of the two.
Can I “mix and match” refund options?
Yes. You can select a combination of Virtual Harmony University, Virtual Midwinter, a donation, and partial refund. Just let us know when the education team reaches out directly to you on Friday, January 22nd and explain how you would like us to divide these funds.
Travel Arrangements
Will BHS provide reimbursement for airfare?
No, BHS will not provide reimbursement for airfare. Many airlines and hotels are offering flexible refund options at this time due to the COVID-19 travel restrictions. Please contact your airline directly to review options.
Scholarships
What happens to all the HU 2021 scholarships?
With the uncertainty of HU 2021, we intentionally delayed posting and awarding our scholarships. However, we will examine offering scholarships to attend our Virtual Harmony University. Once plans are confirmed and all these details worked out, registration and scholarship information will be shared more widely by BHS.