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The Diamond State Chorus is an all-male barbershop chorus consisting
of approximately 50 men. It was chartered in 1955 as a chapter of the Society
for the Preservation and Encouragement of Barbershop Quartet Singing in America,
Inc. (SPEBSQSA). As such, it is part of the largest non-profit men’s singing group
in America with over 34,000 members. It is the only men’s chorus of this type
in Little Rock. More
history can be read by clicking here.
Although appearing
principally in the greater Little Rock area, the chorus membership is made up
of members from as far away as Clarksville, Ark., and has a good representation
from the surrounding areas of Hot Springs, Pine Bluff, Sherwood, Jacksonville,
Maumelle, Russellville, and North Little Rock. Its diversity is one of its strong
points with the ages of its members ranging from the 20s through the 80s...with
vocations varying from doctors and lawyers to accountants and mechanics...from
hospital workers to social workers...from corporate executives to retirees. The
chorus is devoted to singing America’s unique barbershop style of music that originated
in the early 1900’s when, for entertainment, men congregated in barbershops or
on street corners to sing in close harmony. Its repertoire covers the classic
songs of the early 1900’s as well as many modern compositions. From patriotic
numbers to religious songs, from love songs to comedic songs, from up tunes to
ballads, its repertoire is sure to include something to please any ear. The
chorus performs for many civic and charitable functions throughout the greater
Little Rock metropolitan area. In a typical year, it will appear before approximately
3000 people through over twenty performances. Its primary source of financial
support is through annual dues, an annual show, singing valentines, and corporate
sponsors. We rehearse every Monday at 7:00 pm at
Meyer Student Pavilion at Pulaski Academy on Hinson Rd. in West Little Rock. So
if you like to sing and want to be part of an award winning, friendly singing
group, call (501) 791-SING (7464) for more information or contact Tom
Calhoun. |
