Sweet Adelines International 75th Jubilee Commemorative Album

As Sweet Adelines grew in numbers and in reach, women with strong musical backgrounds and formal training began to discover us. Admittedly, they were sometimes confused at first about how the music was scored (singing the baritone and bass notes an octave higher than written), the use of rubato in phrasing, and the American English pronunciation of lyrics. Words like “cone” and “drop-lift” became part of their vocabulary — and ours. And we began to learn how to avoid being “hoarse tomorrow” (as in the words to the old standby, Chordbusters March) after rehearsals or performances. And the music schools! Once again, newcomers were a bit bewildered by the enthusiasm that greeted an upcoming craft session. “Craft session?” they asked. “Like cross-stitching and making holiday gifts from tongue depressors?” Nope. Music schools and weekends were all about the craft of singing women’s barbershop harmony. But what about those members who couldn’t attend music schools? What if their chorus needed specific help to sing better? In 1970, the international organization created, appointed, trained, and funded (with the regions) a new regional position — Director of Musical Activities (DMA) — to oversee the education of our members, and to assist choruses and quartets in improving their singing. The position was coordinated by International Music Education and Craft Chairman Sally Eggleston after consultation with the Musical Advisory Council. Regents (established early in Sweet Adelines, Inc.’s history to manage the growing number of regions) and DMAs worked together to oversee the education and practice of administrative and musical goals.

Diagrams such as “Archie” demonstrated vowel placement.

We didn’t say it was easy. We said it was fun! –Floyd Connett on learning to sing barbershop

We want to be known as an organization which contributes quality music to the cultural life of North America (and even other continents of the world) — music which people enjoy, and music which is admired and respected by all for its artistry of performance. –Nancy Bergman

1972 Sweet Adelines, Inc., celebrates “Year of the Silver Note” at 25th convention in Salt Lake City, Utah (USA).

1973 First international chorus competition won by the Racine Chorus of Wisconsin (USA), directed by Jarmela Speta.

1973 Chapter-at-Large established for members unable to continue active membership in their chapters.

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