SOA Makes Strong Showing in Mainland Barbershop Contest!

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Unlike many of our fellow barbershoppers nationally, the Sounds of Aloha Chorus and its quartets don’t compete all that regularly in chorus and quartet contests. It’s a big trip for us, and we’re lucky to be able to take the chance every third year or so. 2019 was one of those years, though, and we were excited to share our two-song performance package from the musical “South Pacific” with our fellow barbershoppers from the west coast! 

At the Barbershop Harmony Society’s Far Western District Convention and Competition in Modesto, California, October 10-13, 2019, an SOA chorus of sailors performed the raucous “There Is Nothing Like a Dame” and the romantic “Some Enchanted Evening.” Our quartets also made a good showing in the quartet contest, with performances by Funny Bones, VHF, Tropic Knights, and a quartet formed for the occasion, Hawaiian Time. The chorus was proud to come home bearing the contest champs award plaque for our category, Plateau A, and to finish seventh overall out of the 16 choruses to qualify in regional contests to compete at this district level. 

When we are able to go to a contest, it always pushes us to hone our musical skills and raise our performance to a higher level. We’re so appreciative of the amazing support we receive from friends and family. And best of all, the whole convention experience is a chance to bond together as a group, to delight in the showcase of talent from all the other groups, and to celebrate music with so many kindred spirits.

Shore leave... in Modesto?

Chapter breakfast, and reflections from Musical Director Mark Conching:

 

Reflections from our newest member, Dave Hurley, and our most senior, Bill Joor:

 

To carry onstage, a message of inspiration and tokens of commemoration of a beloved chorus-mate, Noel Mau, and beloved chorus spouse, Sandy Joor, whom we lost this past year:

 

A song of thanks for the hotel staff, and Dave welcoming to SOA's afterglow hospitality suite:

 

Some hospitality suite visitors, two of the excellent quartet contestants from that day:

 

Musical Director Mark Conching and President Tom Hutton accepting Plateau A Champs plaque: