The Idea - An Overview
Get Involved
At the British Association of Barbershop Singers, we’ve always believed in the power of harmony to bring people together. For decades, our members have introduced friends, family, colleagues and fellow musicians to barbershop — often with nothing more than a shared tag or a welcoming rehearsal.
Those tiny moments of connection have shaped who we are as an organisation. They’ve built clubs. They’ve started quartets. They’ve brought new leaders into our community.
And today, we believe there is real opportunity to build on that strength and create even more ways for people to discover what makes barbershop so special.
What We’re Exploring
The early concepts include:
- Public-facing vocal harmony events that bring barbershop into new spaces
Gateway workshops introducing newcomers to core barbershop technique - Activities designed to feed into BABS clubs and spark new quartets or groups
- Engagement opportunities for experienced singers, a cappella performers and musicians looking for something fresh
- A collaborative working structure involving leaders and educators from across the community
We’ve published the first set of documents outlining these ideas so anyone can follow, question, contribute and shape what comes next. You can find them at the top of this page.
These aren’t finished models — they’re a shared foundation for discussion.
A Project That Benefits the Whole Barbershop Community
For any new pathway to succeed, newcomers must experience the very best that UK barbershop has to offer — and that extends far beyond BABS.
This project can only grow if it reflects:
- educators from multiple organisations
- quartets and choruses representing our shared traditions
- teaching approaches that showcase the breadth of UK barbershop
- the collaborative spirit that binds our community
New singers will naturally seek out local clubs, but many may also form new ensembles or contribute to the wider harmony community.
How to Get Involved
We are inviting BABS members, educators, clubs and partners to take part in this exploratory phase.
The link to sign up is at the top of this page!
Whether your expertise lies in teaching, events, youth work, accessibility, production, community engagement or simply bringing new people into harmony, your voice will help shape what this becomes.
FAQ:
What is this project?
An early-stage exploration into creating new, accessible ways for people to discover barbershop — through public-facing vocal harmony events, welcoming workshops, and activities that lead naturally into existing groups and new ensembles.
Is this replacing BABS Convention?
No. Not at all.
Convention remains a core part of BABS. This project is additional, not a replacement.
Is this a finished plan?
No. This is an exploratory phase. The linked documents simply outline early thinking to help everyone start from the same place.
Who is it for?
Anyone who could fall in love with barbershop the way many of us did — singers, musicians, a cappella groups, youth performers, choral leaders and curious newcomers.
How will this help BABS?
If successful, it could:
- bring new singers into BABS clubs,
- inspire new quartets and ensembles,
- widen our visibility, and
- support long-term membership growth.
How will this help the wider barbershop community?
New singers will inevitably spread across the whole ecosystem — joining BABS clubs, forming new groups, or connecting with other organisations.
This project aims to strengthen barbershop everywhere, not just in one place.
How can I get involved?
You can join the exploratory phase, share ideas, or offer your expertise in education, events, youth engagement, accessibility, production or outreach.
A link to the sign-up form is provided in the main post.
