Our Barbershop Bonanza with the Oceanaires Chorus of Santa Monica on Saturday October 22, 2022, from 1-4 pm in Veteran’s Park in Culver City, California was a great success. Almost every active VHS chorus members took part in the event..
Introductory remarks were made by Laura Pallas Singer and Tim Singer of the Oceanaires. Our Mark Singer shared some thoughts about the Broadway musical that is, at least in part, an “ode” to barbershop quartet singing. Of course, the show is “The Music Man.” That show opened 65 years ago.
The Oceanaire quartets opened the program and then, with narration by Tim Singer, the Oceanaires sang 5 songs, i.e. “Brand New Day,” “Give Me a Night in June,” “Under the Boardwalk,” “Kokomo,” and “Taking A Chance.” After the Oceanaires completed their set the VHS chorus was invited to join in on “Coney Island Baby,” directed by Laura Pallas Singer.
The VHS chorus's first two songs were "Darkness on the Delta" and "Give My Regards to Broadway." The Tempo Tantrum quartet then sang "Shenandoah" and "Sweet Georgia Brown." The chorus returned to sing "Dream Lover," followed by the All in Accord quartet who sang "When I'm 64" and "Nevertheless." The VHS chorus concluded its set with "What a Wonderful World" and "Irish Blessing." The first part of the program ended with both choruses singing "Honey/Little Lize," directed by Tom Raffety.
During a break in the entertainment pizza was supplied by the Oceanaires and drinks were provided by the VHS. Laura also provided a chocolate sheet cake.
The Barbershop Bonanza ended with four pick-up quartets singing polecats chosen from “My Wild Irish Rose”, “Heart of My Heart/Story of the Rose,” “Let Me Call You Sweetheart,” “Down Our Way” and “Shine on Me.”
The rehearsal on October 31, 2022, featured most, if not all, chorus members and guests in an array of colorful costumes. Toni Wilson hosted the Halloween festivities during break-time as well as providing candy and delicious cupcakes. A costume parade was held, and prizes were awarded to those with the best costumes.
Mark Singer hosted a musical quiz featuring quintessential Halloween songs and tunes as well as songs and tunes from horror movies and TV shows. Prizes were awarded to competitors who had the three highest scores.
Also taking place during a very busy October 2022 was the participation of the All in Accord quartet in the 20th Anniversary Celebration of the Sherman Oaks Neighborhood Council on Saturday October 29, 2022 at Van Nuys Sherman Oaks Park. All in Accord sang three songs as part of the entertainment provided during that event.
