$10K prize for first-time barbershop singers
Next Generation Barbershop Varsity Quartet Contest
A $10,000 prize awaits the top quartet with singers new to barbershop!
Prize Rules & Eligibility
What is the prize?
The 139th Street Legacy Prize is a $10,000 award given to the highest scoring quartet in the finals of the Next Generation Barbershop Varsity Quartet Contest with two quartet members “new to barbershop.”
Who is eligible to win this prize?
Any quartet eligible for the Varsity contest under criteria current at that time may be eligible for this prize, if it includes at least two singers who are “new to barbershop.” A person is considered “new to barbershop” if:
- They are not already or previously a member of BHS or one of its global alliance organizations; or
- Their active membership in BHS or one of its global alliance organizations began after July 10, 2023.
Eligibility will be determined based on questions within the contest application form.
Does a quartet need to win the Varsity Quartet Contest to win the 139th Street Legacy Prize award money??
A quartet does not need to win the Varsity contest to win the award. The quartet just has to be the highest-scoring eligible quartet in that event.
Are there any fees to enter this option of the Varsity Quartet Contest?
There are no additional fees to enter this option of the Varsity Quartet Contest.
Can a quartet compete in the Next Generation Varsity Quartet Contest in the future if it wins the 139th Street Legacy Prize?
139th Street Legacy Prize winners can compete in future Varsity Quartet Contests, provided they meet the then-current contest eligibility criteria and did not achieve first place in the contest.
How long may a quartet be eligible to win the 139th Street Legacy Prize?
Quartets are considered eligible for the 139th Street Legacy Prize for a maximum of two consecutive years, provided that:
- The quartet qualifies for the Varsity contest under criteria current at that time
- The quartet has not previously won the Varsity championship
- The quartet has not previously won the 139th Street Legacy Prize
Will scholarships to compete in Varsity Quartet Contest be awarded?
The Barbershop Harmony Society expects to continue awarding scholarships to quartet members. Quartet singers receiving a NGB scholarship are still eligible to compete for the 139th Street Legacy Prize. Learn more about available scholarships.
Can a quartet win the award if it does not compete at the International Convention?
The 139th Street Legacy Prize is only available to qualifying quartets competing in the NGB Varsity Quartet Contest, which takes place during the BHS International Convention.
When will the winners receive the prize money?
Receipt of the 139th Street Legacy Prize is dependent upon agreement to applicable terms and conditions. Funds will be disbursed in a timely fashion along with appropriate tax reporting.
Why "The 139th Street Legacy Prize" ?
The 139th Street Quartet was instrumental in founding the youth contest in 1992. In 2022, Dr. Jim Kline, the bass of the legendary BHS Hall of Fame quartet, established the $10,000 prize with a five year commitment as a donor to the Barbershop Harmony Society. Watch the announcement.