The York White Rose and Harrisburg Keystone Capital choruses
For two local barbershop choruses, an upcoming anniversary performance is more than just a celebration of legacy, but of newfound unity.
Harrisburg’s Keystone Capital Chorus and York’s White Rose Chorus will come together for a “Back to Barbershop! 75th Anniversary Celebration” at the Scottish Rite Cathedral on Sept. 10 at 3 p.m.
“It’s going to be a big show,” said Scott Zumbrum, the show’s chairperson and member of both choruses. “It’s really the first collaboration between two local chapters. That’s a big deal.”
Zumbrum has sung for both choruses throughout his 43 years as part of the Barbershop Harmony Society. However, the two local chapters have been hesitant to partner over the years, he admitted.
But as the society’s membership has slimmed down as singers age and fewer people join, the choruses realized the strength that comes in numbers.
“Neither of these chapters are going to survive if we don’t start playing together,” Zumbrum said.
For their 75th anniversary performance, which both chapters are celebrating this year, the choruses will perform as one. Other award-winning Barbershop Harmony Society choruses and quartets will perform, as well. Additionally, the Cedar Cliff High School choir will perform, as part of the organization’s youth outreach program.
“You’re going to be exposed to a whole lot of different types of singing,” Zumbrum said. “There will be something for everybody.”
Combined, the White Rose and Keystone Capital choruses have about 30 members, ranging in age from 16 to 82 years old. It’s a far cry from their days of having nearly 100 members in the early 2000s, but the groups are fighting to keep the art form alive. For these choruses, that includes welcoming anyone who wants to join regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation or race, Zumbrum explained.
“To us, it’s important that we encourage people to continue to join,” he said. “It’s something that’s been around for 150 years as an art form. It’s a unique art form.”
Those who attend the anniversary performance will hear a wide range of acapella barbershop music, from “way back when” songs to more current tunes.
“You’ll hear good music,” Zumbrum said. “You’re not going to be disappointed.”
The Scottish Rite Cathedral is located at 2701 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg. For more information about the 75th anniversary celebration show or to purchase tickets, click here.
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