Friendships in four-part harmony

On Wednesday evenings, the smooth sounds of barbershop music echo through Thornhill Chapel in Spokane Valley. Each week, Pages of Harmony members meet to mix their voices and practice the art of barbershop harmony.

Currently, the men’s chorus is rehearsing for its April 23 Spring Show, which will feature Pepper, an award-winning quartet from Spokane’s Sweet Adeline’s chorus.

“We’re all about promoting and preserving barbershop harmony and male a cappella singing,” said Lauren Rants, as the strains of “I’ve Been Working on the Railroad” filled the chapel.

The group belongs to the Barbershop Harmony Society and has been active in Spokane for more than 75 years. About 35 regular members, ranging in age from 33 to 87, make up the chorus, which includes men from professions including law, medicine and education.

Ken Duncan, 87, is a retired stockbroker. He’s been singing barbershop music for 37 years.

“My first experience with music was singing in the car with my parents,” he said. “The folks had no radio.”

That exposure led to his love of vocal music, which he pursued with vigor after retiring. He sings in his church choir, too.

Lance Cox, 33, is the newest member, and the chorus’ assistant director.

“I love a cappella,” he said. “You can sing it anywhere – you don’t need any instrument other than your voice. It’s music that was made to sing.”

Both men also enjoy the friendships formed while singing together every week.

“People who come and stay, do it for the singing and for the relationships formed through the chorus,” Duncan said.

Cox agreed.

“There’s male bonding and comradeship that’s rare today. Men don’t get together like this anymore.”

Director Jay Krumbholz is the chairman of the Music and Recording Arts Department at Spokane Falls Community College, where he teaches music classes and coaches two barbershop groups.

“Barbershop is a unique sound that’s different than just a cappella,” he said. “The harmony part is above the melody, which makes the chords sound different. It’s a challenge to sing well.”

He led the chorus in a rousing version of “This is the Army, Mr. Jones,” which featured some snappy choreography.

“The choreography visually enhances the song,” Krumbholz said.

Barbershoppers find it difficult to choose a favorite song.

“My favorite song is whatever I’m getting ready to sing for a contest,” Rantz said.

The chorus includes several quartets and competes twice a year.

“If you hear a good quartet sing, you can hear a note that’s not even being sung. That’s called ‘the ring.’ The Tibetans call it ‘the voice of God,’ ” Rantz said.

The chorus performs locally, singing at Spokane Indians baseball games, retirement centers and other venues.

Pages of Harmony welcomes new members. There is an audition process, but, Krumbholz said, “If you can carry a tune and love to sing, you are welcome.”

But beware – members say the music is addicting.

Lance Cox laughed. “Barbershop is a second religion for people who sing it. You’re in it for life!”