In 1938, a small group of men gathered on a roof garden of the Tulsa Club in Tulsa, Oklahoma. This group, headed by Owen C. Cash, founded the Barbershop Harmony Society. At that time, the U.S. government was known for creating agencies, administrations, and committees with long titles that would be translated into acronyms. So, the “Society for the Preservation and Encouragement of Barbershop Singing in America, Incorporated” was created. Since then, the initials SPEBSQSA have become synonymous with barbershop harmony. The new “logo” however, is more easily recognized by the general public.
Barbershop harmony has its roots in American spiritual music. The Lead sings the melody line of the song. The Tenor usually sings above the lead. The Bass sings below the lead. The Baritone sings a wide range, filling in other necessary notes in the chords, all coming together to create that special barbershop sound.
Members of the Society sing (always a capella) in quartets or choruses to enjoy this wonderful hobby. Being able to read music while helpful, is not a requirement as there are learning materials (CDs) to assist men is learning the songs.
SPEBSQSA has approximately 34,00 members around the world with 16 districts in the United States and Canada and 7 overseas affiliate organizations. Barbershop style singing has spread to Russia, Japan, China and more. The Barbershop Harmony Society has truly become International.