The Scottsdale Chapter Philosophy

The Canyon State Chorus is a chapter of the Society for the Preservation and Encouragement of Barbershop Quartet Singing in America, Inc. (S.P.E.B.S.Q.S.A.). We are a fraternal singing organization focusing on the production of outstanding barbershop-style performances.

Supporting Elements

IMPROVEMENT - Musical improvement is vital to the growth of the chapter. Each member shall continually strive to improve his own voice through attentiveness during rehearsals and personal effort between rehearsals. Excellence in performance attracts quality singers, builds enthusiasm, promotes pride, and increases our musical gift to our audiences.

CONTEST PARTICIPATION - The chorus shall compete at all possible levels of competition. This will reinforce the stated philosophy by increasing the chapter's musical excellence.

QUARTET PROMOTION - The chapter encourages and supports all quartet singing, formal and informal, as it is a major factor in the chapter's musical growth. The chapter's musical staff will assist members in all phases of quarteting including music selection, coaching, packaging a show, et. Chapter quartets may audition to participate in chorus performances.

FAMILY PARTICIPATION - Although the Barbershop Society is a fraternal organization, the Canon State Chorus encourages involvement of relatives and friends of chapter members at every possible occcasion. Family oriented activities will be scheduled throughout the year.

SOCIETY PARTICIPATION - The Barbershop Society has many chapters and affiliates around the world. Members of the Canyon State Chorus shall participate in supporting functions of other chapters such as shows, competitions, special events, etc.

COMMUNITY SERVICE - The Canyon State Chorus will support those charities adopted by the International Organization. The chorus as well as chapter quartets will be expected to perform free of charge from time to time for the betterment of the community.

PROGRAM - The weekly meetings shall consist primarilly of chorus rehearsal. Other weekly events include vocal warmup, vocal craft, chapter business, announcements, and a break. Additional events include quartet activities, entertainment, talent shows, tag contests, etc. Members are encouraged to submit program ideas in order to provide an exciting experience.

The Canyon State Chorus is dedicated to the education of its members. Vocal education is vital to the health of the member as well as the musical growth of the chorus. Music education will allow members to better understand the barbershop style and to organize their thoughts in a musical way.