About
Our History
Chartered in 1968, the chorus has been sharing the art of four-part harmony singing, along with its enthusiastic passion for music, with the people of Saint John for more than 55 years. Although the first meeting at the offices of Saint John's CFBC attracted only a handful of singers, co-founders Don Regan and Doug Major were not discouraged, and the chorus continued to grow, and at one point boasted more than ninety singers.
From the beginning, the ensemble has been an important part of Saint John's vibrant music and cultural scene, playing host to a number of competitions, fundraisers and concerts. One of the most exceptional of these events, took place in 1990, when the chorus was invited to Amsterdam, to represent the city for the 45th anniversary of the liberation of Holland by Canadian forces. According to charter-member, Paul Chamberlain, more than 40 members took part in a series of overseas concerts, the highlight of which was singing back-up for English singer-songwriter Dame Vera Lynn, at Arnhem.
In addition to promoting the art of barbershop singing, and music in general, the chorus has long maintained an interest in charitable works, including the purchase of hearing aids for children whose families might otherwise be unable to afford them. Over the years, through the hearing-aid program and donations towards training equipment for the hospital, the chorus has contributed more than $60,000 to the community, according to Chamberlain. More recently, the chorus has donated performance to Ridgewood Veteran's Wing, awarded bursaries to young vocalists and collaborated with local schools to encourage singing at a young age. Such works are a reflection of the values held by the chorus, and the Barbershop Harmony Society, of which it is a part.
Directed by Janet Kidd, the group meets every Monday evening, at Lancaster Baptist Church, on the city's west side from 7-9PM.
The ensemble hopes to grow its numbers and continue to promote its art form, so that they can "keep a melody ringing" in the city of Saint John for many years to come.
Meet Our director
Janet Kidd
Director
Janet Kidd has been directing singing groups for more than 45 years and presently conducts a mixed Barbershop chorus, a university medical school choir, two women’s community choirs and she is the music director for Hampton United Church in Hampton, New Brunswick.
Janet is a published author and composer, and the writer of an internationally read blog about singing in, and directing choirs.
Meet the leadership team
Rob Taylor
President
Mark McGilvrey
Immediate Past President
Tim Curry
VP Finance
Andre Welland
VP Marketing & PR
Doug Muir
VP Membership
Rodney Graham
VP Operations