The Pitch Pipe July 2025

The

pitchpipemagazine.com | July 2025 | Volume 79 — No.1

Pitch Pipe THE

VOICE

OF

SWEET ADELINES INTERNATIONAL

The

Pitch Pipe July 2025 | Volume 79 — No.1

In Every Issue

Membership

3 5 24 67 68

20 35 38

From Our President From Our CEO Harmony Roundup

A Million Dreams: Bay Area Showcase Chorus Mission Retention A New Way to Help Chapters THRIVE!

In Memory Accolades

Education

Events and Competition

6 16 18 22

9 10 29 40 64

"Education is a Core Value" SOUNDS Like a Plan MUSIC Q&A Creating a Culture of Belonging

Regional Results: B+ and Above Choruses Ring Chords in Columbus!

Jurassic Chords Regional Results 2025 Wildcard Quartets 2025

Philanthropy

8

"There's Nothing Like It!": Patty Cobb Baker

28

“Always Something New to Learn": Margaret Hanson

On the Cover: 2025 Regional and International Events

July 2025 | 1

The

Anytime.

Anywhere.

Read The Pitch Pipe on ISSUU!

Pitch Pipe

July 2025 | Volume 79 — No.1 | www.pitchpipemagazine.com

Sweet Adelines International Elevating women singers worldwide through education, performance, and competition in barbershop harmony and a cappella music.

_____________________________________ INTERNATIONAL HEADQUARTERS Tammy Talbot Chief Executive Officer Kim Berrey Editor-in-Chief Stacy Pratt Staff Writer Ben Larscheid Graphic Designer Joey Bertsch Staff Photographer Lauren Stark Staff Photographer

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INTERNATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS May 1, 2025 – April 30, 2026

ONAL ERNATI L E S I N TT E R N A T I O N A ADELIN IN S W E E TE T A D E L I N E S i

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Thérèse Antonini, Immediate Past President

ional s Internat & Competition Sweet Adeline l Convention 2025 Internationa

Jeanne d’Arc (JD) Crowe, President-elect

Cosmic Congratulations to ma, USA Tulsa, Oklaho 1, 2025 Friday, August

Sharon Cartwright, Secretary

Quad City Sound

!

the 2023 winners ma, USA Tulsa, Oklaho 2, 2025 Saturday, August

Annika Dellås, Treasurer Joan Boutilier Elaine Hamilton Jenny Harris Vickie Maybury

Janice Mckenna Jean Schoenlank Valerie Taylor

EDUCATION DIRECTION COMMITTEE Valerie Taylor, Chair Joan Boutilier Leslie Galbreath Anne Downton Kim Wonders EDITORIAL REVIEW BOARD Joan Boutilier Jeanne d’Arc (JD) Crowe Becky DeCook

Mari Pettersson Leigh Whitelaw

______________________________________ The Pitch Pipe 9110 S. Toledo Ave., Tulsa, OK 74137 U.S.A. Telephone 1.918.622.1444 • Toll-free 1.800.992.7464 Fax 1.918.665.0894 • www.sweetadelines.com Office hours: M-F 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (CT) ______________________________________

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2 | July 2025

@SweetAdelineIntl

@SweetAdelinesIntl @SweetAdelines

Remember to use #SweetAdelines on social media.

Headquarters uses the # to find your posts, photos and tweets to share across Sweet Adelines social media channels.

I

gnite the Sound and Mission:Retention have been wonderful programs, helping us focus on two essential questions: How do we attract new members—and how do we keep them? We all want more members in our choruses, don’t we? The music is what initially draws people in, but as we often say, “We come for the music, and we stay for the friendships.” The power of personal connection simply cannot be overstated.

When I was a kid, we moved a lot. I was often the “new girl.” My favorite book was Trudy Phillips, New Girl because I could relate so deeply to her experience.

That first day at a new school was always scary and lonely—and sometimes the days that followed were, too. It wasn’t until someone reached out and befriended me that I could breathe a little easier.

Having someone to sit with at lunch, walk with between classes, or play with at recess made all the difference. Once I had one friend, it became easier to navigate the school schedule and culture. One friend led to another, and before long, I felt like I belonged.

Some of us might remember walking into our first chorus rehearsal—nervous, uncertain, maybe even a little intimidated. It takes a lot of courage to step into a room full of strangers. Choruses are known for being warm and welcoming—but how many of us go beyond the friendly hello and truly befriend a guest? I’m not talking about an assigned riser buddy or chorus mentor; those roles are important and serve a purpose. But real connection usually hap-

From Our President pens outside of a system. It happens when someone sees you and reaches out in a meaningful way.

So how do we make sure every guest and new member finds a friend? It takes intentional effort from every member of the chorus.

We all play a role in creating an environment where everyone feels seen, valued, and included.

Think about how it might feel to be a guest or a new member, but not yet have a true connection. Or to have been a member for months without a single person calling when you miss a rehearsal.

That kind of loneliness can quietly chip away at someone’s enthusiasm. But just one authentic friendship can change everything.

Research shows that people are far more likely to stay in a group where they have at least one close friend. That sense of belonging doesn’t just help retain members—it enriches every aspect of the chorus experience.

So let’s be intentional. Be the reason someone wants to stay in a chorus. Let’s not just be friendly—let’s be friends. No doubt our music – and our lives – will be enriched.

In harmony,

Mary Rhea

"How do we make sure every guest and new member finds a friend? It takes intentional effort from every member of the chorus. We all play a role in creating an environment where everyone feels seen, valued, and included."

July 2025 | 3

Sweet Adelines International reaffirms our

commitment to our Guiding Principles of Diversity & Inclusion and Culture of Belonging through which we strive to create a musical community where singers feel welcome and valued. We continue to work to make our organization one that reflects the communities of our choruses and quartets. We continually learn that diversity brings strength, equity fosters fairness, and inclusion is the heart of harmony.

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www.sweetadelines.com/diversity-equity-inclusion

From Our CEO Hello, Sweet Adelines!

On July 13, 1945, Edna Mae Anderson gathered women at her home in Tulsa, Oklahoma to sing barbershop music.

Since then, Sweet Adelines International has become a diverse worldwide singing organization with thousands of members, chapters, and quartets in 20 countries. In 2005, our anniversary was named Barbershop Music Appreciation Day. We hope you will join us this year in celebrating 80 years of learning and growing together!

If you would like to learn more about Sweet Adelines International’s history, visit www.sweetadelines.com/about/history.

There, you will find lists of international champions, award winners, international presidents, and many other resources. See copies of the history panels that adorn the walls of international headquarters or read the Countdown history series from The Pitch Pipe. You can also download our free online book, The 75th Anniversary Album, published in 2020, which is filled with photos and information.

Over the years, Sweet Adelines have connected across borders to sing together. Close, intense musical friendships are formed.

Through eight decades, we have arrived today as an international organization united by song, working together toward a true culture of belonging and musical excellence. We laugh, we love, and we sing together – and it makes a difference in ourselves and in our world.

We will celebrate together this October when we come together in Columbus, Ohio (USA) for the 77th Sweet Adelines International Convention! We look forward to seeing you in person or in the webcast chats as we gather for a week of world-class barbershop music and the special magic that happens when Sweet Adelines gather.

Building our Future Together – 80 years strong!

Cheers to the next 80 years of harmony and friendships!

In harmony,

Tammy Talbot

How will you celebrate our 80th anniversary with your chorus or quartet? On or around our anniversary, post photos or videos of your celebration so we can share on Sweet Adelines International social media!

Also, make sure to enter your celebration photos in the July Mission: Retention contest. See page 35 of this issue for more information.

Celebrating learning and growing together during the Ignite the Sound Celebration during the 2023 International Convention & Competition in Attendees before the doors open for the Louisville, Kentucky (USA).

2024 International Convention and Competition in Kansas City.

July 2025 | 5

“EDUCATION IS A CORE VALUE” Introducing North by Northwest Region 13 education programs

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ducation is a core value for North by Northwest (NxNW) Region 13. The education team continually revisits ways to deliver focused learning opportunities for all members. We use an array of innovative and traditional teaching strategies for musical and chapter leaders. We’d like to share several exciting education programs that we offer.

Excellent faculty development specialists oversee our faculty and support the following programs. Their vision is to “Imagine crafting a learning opportunity that changes lives and builds community.” Their mission is to “Select, train, support, and empower faculty to provide education that leads to growth.” Because of their work, we have a very talented faculty of approximately twenty members.

NxNW Presents NxNW Presents is an online education program that started during the pandemic and continues today. The program consists of 1-hour sessions of barbershop education, with classes such as PVI’s under Glass, director and section leader forums, music theory, TE Tuner training, virtual rehearsal tips, tag writing series, RMT focus groups, and many others. A master class hosted by Alysha Deslorieux, a Broadway actor, was also held. All classes are recorded and are available to members and the public on our YouTube Channel.

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Area Schools In odd-numbered years, we offer one-day, in-person workshops called “area schools” in five geographical zones with two faculty members presenting at each school. We survey the choruses and develop programs which meet their specific needs. Our region is quite spread out. We are in the U.S., with choruses in Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana. This program ensures our members get education tailored to their needs.

Summer Enrichment Training (SET) In even-numbered years we host Summer Enrichment Training (SET). We bring in special guest faculty while hosting several classes taught by our fabulous regional faculty. We are especially excited to bring SET 2026 to Anchorage, Alaska with an optional inland passage cruise prior to the event. Singers outside our region are invited, so please come and join us! You can find more information on our regional website, www.sairegion13.org.

Preparing for an Exceptional Performance (PEP) Chapters can request a PEP (Preparing for an Exceptional Performance) visit by a faculty member addressing leadership or musical education. This option allows chapters to get assistance with needs specific to their ensemble.

Scenes from 2024 Summer Enrichment Training (SET)

Resonate and Inspire New Ideas and Growth (RING Talks) We are extremely excited to tell you about our latest educational program, RING Talks (ideas that Resonate and Inspire New ideas and Growth). Think mini-TED Talks. These are 10-15-minute educational talks that members can view online.

Regional members are encouraged to submit a RING talk for consideration. These talks are advertised in our monthly e-Blast communication newsletter.

This year’s convention education class consisted of three wonderful RING Talks with a Kahoot quiz thrown in at the end.

(Kahoot is a game-based online learning platform.) This class generated quite a bit of fun and competitiveness among attendees!

New Certification Programs Our team is developing new certification programs for the region. We have targeted three areas for initial certifications, as noted below. Stay tuned for more details as they are finalized. You can be sure that some, if not all, will include video classes, written materials, and at least one Kahoot quiz!

• Beginning Sight Reading Certification (Implementation date is October 1, 2025.)

• Integrating a Culture of Belonging Certification • Membership Retention Certification

Additional Education Initiatives We also support additional, ongoing educational initiatives in Region 13 including the following: • The Leadership 13 Cohort Program was created in 2023, and two cohorts have been established thus far. This two-year program consists of seven classes with individual assignments and presentations during the first year. Year two is designed around completion of a leadership project focused on the needs of the region.

• We help support the Ovation Club (a group of previous 1st place regional quartet winners) to provide quartet education at least biannually.

• We look forward to incorporating more education for chapter leaders to help them THRIVE! For questions about any of our programs and initiatives, feel free to reach out to education@sairegion13.org.

Sandy Smith and Carol Vecchio are outgoing/incoming Region 13 education coordinators.

July 2025 | 7

“There’s Nothing Like It!”

A Talk with Donor Patty Cobb Baker

P

atty Cobb Baker loves Sweet Adelines International, and it shows. From chorus member to director, quartet champion to Approved Candidate Judge, chapter leader to international president, she has devoted herself to barbershop music and the people who make it. As a donor, she wants to make sure future singers have the same opportunities that have given her such community, confidence, and joy.

Patty’s barbershop journey began when she worked at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas (USA). There, a colleague and longtime barbershopper invited her to sing carols at a Christmas party. “I just love to harmonize!” she told him. “I have just the hobby for you,” her colleague replied.

She joined Houston Horizon Chorus (#10) in 1983 and later joined Harborlites Chorus (#21), where she still sings. She also spent a few years directing Golden Sands Chorus (#11). Patty is perhaps best known as a two-time international champion quartet member, singing tenor with Touché (2013) and Viva! (2020). She currently sings with Hot Note Quartet (#10).

Alongside her musical contributions, Patty has served in leadership at every level, including 14 years on the International Board of Directors and as international president (2018-2020).

That broad experience shaped her views on the importance of philanthropy within the organization.

“Every chapter is basically a small business,” she explains.

“Without resources—without someone to help pay for coaching or arrangements or even a director—it all falls back on the members.

That makes it hard to attract and retain singers.”

A regular donor to Sweet Adelines International, Patty has also been on the receiving end of philanthropy as the recipient of an Approved Candidate Judge (ACJ) Scholarship.

“Judging has been the most comprehensive learning experience I’ve had in my Sweet Adelines journey,” she says. “You learn about

8 | July 2025

performance, sound, music theory—you learn how it all fits together.”

As an Approved Candidate Judge herself, she knows firsthand how expensive the process can be. Travel, lodging, food—all of it is out-of-pocket.

“The scholarship has allowed me to attend more contests each year,” she says. “And for people overseas, it’s even more critical.

We need more judges. We need new judges. These scholarships help make that possible.”

Patty explains that the value of the ACJ program doesn’t end at the judging table or even with competitors. It spreads through coaching, classes, and conversations that elevate singers, ensembles, and the barbershop art form itself. “There’s nothing like it,” she says.

Her years of singing and service have made it clear: Philanthropy isn’t extra. It’s essential.

“It’s the lifeblood of nonprofits,” she says. “Without it, especially during tough economic times, people can’t afford to stay.”

Patty wants all singers to be able to come to Sweet Adelines, thrive, and learn through all the seasons of their singing lives – just as she has done. That is why she designated a generous, unrestricted legacy gift to the organization to ensure the joy and fulfillment she’s received from Sweet Adelines International will continue for future singers.

“There’s something intangible about singing barbershop,” she says. “It’s visceral. You feel it in your bones, in your soul. And the friendships? They’re for life. When you sing together, everything else goes away.”

If you would like to make a gift in support of Sweet Adelines Scholarship Programs, please contact Susan Smith,Chief Philanthropy and Administrative Officer at susan@sweetadelines.com.

It’s The Music That Brings Us Together Sweet Adelines International Official Organizational Songs

Find music, lyrics, learning tracks, and performances on the Sweet Adelines website at www.sweetadelines.com/organizational-songs.

Regional Results 2025 B+ and Above Choruses

Sweet Adelines congratulates and recognizes the accomplishments of all competing choruses. During the 2025 regional competition season, these choruses earned B+ scores (592) and above. Choruses receiving a score of 700 or higher are marked by an asterisk.

Song of Atlanta Chorus*, #14

Greater Cleveland Chorus, #17

Midwest Crossroad Chorus, #3

Skyline Chorus*, #8

Rhythm of the Rockies Chorus, #26

Alberta Northern Lights Chorus, #26

Harborlites Chorus*, #21

Perth Harmony Chorus, #34

Grand Rapids Chorus, #17

Scioto Valley Chorus*, #4

Brindabella Chorus, #34

Greater Auckland Chorus, #35

Rönninge Show Chorus*, #32

Faultline Chorus, #35

Greater Harrisburg Chorus, #19

Westcoast Harmony Chorus, #26

The Woodlands Show Chorus, #10

York Harmony Chorus, #16

Viva Acappella Chorus, #31

Melodeers Chorus, #3

Vienna-Falls Chorus, #14

A Cappella Joy Chorus, #13

Dundalk Chorus, #19

Singing Unlimited Chorus, #31

Spirit of the Gulf Chorus, #9

Canadian Showtime Chorus, #16

Voices Northwest Chorus, #13

Motor City Blend Chorus, #2

Harmony Heights Chorus, #32

Bridges of Harmony Chorus, #9

San Diego Chorus, #21

River Blenders Chorus, #5

Hobart Harmony Chorus, #34

Metro Nashville Chorus, #4

Enchanted Mesa Show Chorus, #21

River City Sound Chorus, #3

Lace City Chorus, #31

Greater Harmony Chorus, #17

Mission Valley Chorus, #12

Santa Monica Chorus, #11

Sound of Sunshine Chorus, #9

Oregon Spirit Chorus, #12

Sirens of Gotham Chorus, #15

Snowflake Singers Chorus, #32

Pacific Edge Chorus, #26

City of Lakes Chorus, #6

Farmington Valley Chorus, #1

Greater Richmond Chorus, #14

Waikato Rivertones Chorus, #35

Merrimack Valley Chorus, #1

No Borders Show Chorus, #31

Talk of Tulsa Show Chorus, #25

Pacific Empire Chorus, #12

Voices in Harmony Chorus, #17

Spirit of Syracuse Chorus, #15

Diamond Jubilee Chorus, #4

Liberty Oak Chorus, #15

Stockholm Starlight Chorus, #32

July 2025 | 9

Get Ready to cheer, to le

10 | July 2025

earn, to sing...

Vocal and Physical Warm-Ups

9:15–11:15 a.m.

Tabletop Discussions Session 1

11:20–11:45 a.m.

Sing “Tag-Outs” with Lady A Cappella

1–3 p.m.

Tabletop Discussions Session 2

3:05–3:25 p.m.

Sing “Tag-Outs” with LoveNotes

Switch tables every 20 minutes — new table, new topic!

Tuesday, October 21 9–9:40 a.m.

Panel Discussion on Recruitment and Retention

9–10:30 a.m.

Harmony at its Best...

A-”Chord”-ing to Barbershop

9:50–10:30 a.m.

Panel Discussion on Chorus Culture

10:40–11:20 a.m.

Voices in Action: Utilizing the Chorus Toolkit with representatives from the DEI Council

Saturday, October 25 9–10:30 a.m.

Chorus Education Class with North Metro Chorus

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Quartet Education Class with Lady A Cappella

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9–10:30 a.m.

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Friday, October 24

On Monday, grab your commemorative Sweet Adelines “passport” and make your rounds to Tabletop Discussions. For each 20-minute session you attend, you’ll receive a “passport stamp” that enters you into drawings for prizes, including an All-Events Pass for next year’s competition and VIP seats for this year’s competition.

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9–9:15 a.m.

Learn with friends!

Win prizes!

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Monday, October 20

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Throughout the week...

Chorus Toolkit Workshops are available by appointment!

www.sweetadelines.com/columbus/education

July 2025 | 11

Visit www.sweetadelines.com/columbus/family-chorus

Sweet Adelines International Sales and a wide array of vendors will be on hand with products specially chosen for barbershop singers.

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The webcast streams live, but competition performances will be available later on the Sweet Adelines International YouTube channel.

Stay tuned for more information!

July 2025 | 13

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ORDER OF APPEARANCE

Sweet Adelines International 2025 International Convention & Competition

2025 INTERNATIONAL HARMONY CLASSIC CHORUS COMPETITION Division AA

Division A

1. Wichita Chorus • Region #25 2. Milltown Sound Chorus • Region #31 3. Capital City Chorus• Region #4 4. Fox Valley Chorus • Region #6 5. Crescent City Sound Chorus • Region #10

1. Greater Cleveland Chorus • Region #17 2. Redland Rhapsody Chorus •Region #34 3. Gateway Chorus • Region #26 4. Alaska Sound Celebration Chorus • Region #13 5. London Chorus • Region #2 (Withdrawn)

2025 INTERNATIONAL QUARTET COMPETITION 1. SwingTime 2. Wildfire!

3. Five Minutes More 4. Lipstick Scoundrels 5. By Special Request 6. Firefly 7. Saving Grace 8. Essence 9. Gusto!

10. Tenacious 11. Lumos 12. Skylark

13. Lucille 14. First Class 15. The Valkyries 16. Uproar 17. SoloVoce 18. Duly Noted 19. Spice 20. PrimeTime 21. Silhouette 22. Yellow Brick Road 23. Maverick 24. Alouette

25. Airwaves 26. Probly Fine 27. Illuminate 28. Alchemy 29. Dynasty 30. Presto!

31. Rewind 32. Midnight Society 33. Venture 34. Twilight 35. Sirens 36. PRISM

37. Nothin’ But Treble 38. All Fired Up! 39. Serenade 40. Wicked Blend 41. Rosegold Four 42. Voxy 43. Lighthouse 44. VOCE 45. Last Call 46. Saffron 47. Radiant

2025 INTERNATIONAL CHORUS COMPETITION 1. Choral-Aires Chorus • Region #3 2. Twin Cities Show Chorus • Region #6 3. Shoreline Sound Chorus • Region #2 4. Spirit of Spokane Chorus • Region #13 5. Harbor City Music Company Chorus • Region #19 6. Toast of Tampa Show Chorus • Region #9 7. Forth Valley Chorus • Region #31 8. Diablo Vista Chorus • Region #12 9. Buffalo Gateway Chorus • Region #17 10. Scottsdale Chorus • Region #21 11. Rich-Tone Chorus • Region #25 12. Pearls of the Sound Chorus • Region #32 13. Bella Voce Chorus • Region #8 14. OK City Chorus • Region #25 15. Jet Cities Chorus • Region #13 16. Harmony on the Sound Chorus • Region #1 17. Greater Kingston Chorus • Region #16

18. Greater Nassau Chorus • Region #15 19. Harmony Celebration Chorus • Region #15 20. Metro Mix Chorus • Region #5 21. Alamo Metro Chorus • Region #10 22. Circular Keys Chorus • Region #34 23. Verdugo Hills Chorus • Region #11 24. Queen Charlotte Chorus • Region #14 25. Houston Horizon Chorus • Region #10 26. OC Sound Chorus • Region #21 27. Circle of Harmony Chorus • Region #16 (Withdrawn) 28. Vocal Matrix Chorus • Region #14 29. Vocal Standard Chorus • Region #5 30. Great Lake Sound Chorus • Region #3 31. Cincinnati Sound Chorus • Region #4 32. Alberta Northern Lights Chorus • Region #26 (Withdrawn) 33. Millennium Magic Chorus • Region #1

July 2025 | 15

SOUNDS

Like a Plan Updates to the Sound Category

S

inging knowledge, understanding, and technology continually advance. The Sweet Adelines International Sound Category needed to reflect new understanding about how the voice is used to produce barbershop sound, and how to evaluate it. Certified Sound Judges Beth Smith, Mary Rhea, Sandy Marron, Valerie Taylor, and Kim Vaughn recently worked together to update the category.

Over time, our Sweet Adeline singers and judges have become more knowledgeable about good singing skills, teaching methodologies, and evaluation, so the immediate goal has been to clarify the category elements using more current language. In addition, the Guide to Vocal Skills section of the Judging Category Description Book (JCDB) has been reorganized so that it is more encyclopedic and applicable to all categories, as well as being easily understood by competitors.

What has changed?

Currently, the Sound category is weighted 70% Unit Sound and 30% Artistic Sound, leading to a weighted hierarchy of technical elements from Vocal Skills, through Accuracy, into Artistic Sound. Judges are being called upon to more accurately describe performances, and the current structure of the Artistic Sound portion of the category sometimes limits Sound judges.

With judges limited by the given descriptors/language in the category, it was challenging for them to give competitors thorough detail in their comments on the scoresheets.

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Updates Include...

• Clarifying language and terms of the category • Incorporating terminology used by the vocal pedagogy community regarding singing mechanics (e.g., Body Alignment instead of Posture) • Organizing information into the appropriate area of the Sound Category section of the JCDB and more clearly defining the hierarchy of skills

Sound judges will continue scoring 100 points per song as before. Moving from a 70/30 weighted scale to a 100-point holistic approach gives more flexibility and allows Sound judges to reward the artistry they hear, at any level.

New Category Elements The Vocal Skills section of the category has been expanded to more accurately reflect how skills are used to produce optimal sound, as well as use more current terminology for the mechanics of voice production.

Harmony Accuracy and Ensemble Sound become the focus of the category. These elements are amplifications of the previous center column (Unit Sound/Accuracy) on the scoresheet. The desired product is a sound, not a collection of voices. Harmony Accuracy and Ensemble Sound focus on the precision and skill applied to the technical elements that combine to create blended, ringing, clean barbershop sound.

Artistry & Musicality is a reorganization of elements that bring “magic” to the sound. As Sweet Adelines has moved toward emphasizing performance and audience connection in recent years, this expansion allows Sound judges to evaluate the voice’s inherent ability to convey character and artistry at all performance levels.

Scoresheet Redesign There are a number of changes to the dashboard (upper portion) of the Sound scoresheet that judges use and which competitors receive following their performance.

The new “volcano cone” on the updated scoresheet is intended to illustrate a three-dimensional approach to balance and to ensure the tenor part is not interpreted as a tight or small voice. Our judges have been talking about balance this way on scoresheets for quite some time, and the volcano cone more accurately illustrates the concept of ringing, dimensional, balanced barbershop sound.

Sound judges have been judging this way in practice, and now the category language and scoresheet reflect these concepts in ways that may be more meaningful and helpful to singers. The 100% approach to scoring allows the judge to consider the entire performance rather than apportioning points for each element in the category. With the upcoming release of the updated Music category, all four categories will now align in their approach to scoring. Both category updates take effect in October 2025.

Sound Category Update Task Force members are Certfied Sound Judges Beth Smith, Mary Rhea, Sandy Marron, Valerie Taylor, and Kim Vaughn.

Find the Judging Category Description Book (JCDB) under the Education tab when you are logged in to the Sweet Adelines International website.

July 2025 | 17

MUSIC Q&A Updates to the Music Category

I

n the fall of 2022, a task force was created to review the Music category. The recommendations made by the task force were ultimately approved by the Judge Specialists, the Education Direction Committee (EDC) and the International Board of Directors (IBOD), resulting in an updated version of the Music category. The changes included in this Music category revision will be in effect starting in October 2025.

Why the changes?

As a part of the ongoing review process embedded in the International Judging Program (IJP), discussions with members of the IJP and with Sweet Adelines International membership continually highlighted several areas of needed clarification of the language in the Music category. The task force mandate included a request to review, research, and update language, explanations, and descriptive areas that can clarify the way judges comment in adjudication and provide better understanding and education of the requirements of the Music category to members.

What’s New? 100% vs. 70/30 weights • Previously, the Music category was divided into Song and Arrangement (30%) and Performance (70%); based on the scoresheet and the directives in the Music category, the judges were to assess each song with this split weight.

• The 2025 Music category revision does away with the split weight, and performances will now be assessed holistically, considering all elements of the category, with each song worth a possible 100 points.

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• This change reflects how the Performance elements are inextricably connected to the Song/Arrangement elements through the performer. It reflects actual scoring practice and removes the category weights associated with these two areas so that the impact of song/arrangement choice is appropriately applied in scoring.

Category Elements Language changes • Separated the descriptions for Song and Arrangement to improve reader clarity.

• Added alternate language for two chords in the Harmonization section and removed the references to the number of chords.

• Added appropriate explanations to chord descriptions that are understandable to the performer as well as the arranger and removed explanations more suited to arranger education.

• Added language defining terms commonly used on scoresheets such as Big Three; Color chord, Dominant vs. Barbershop seventh, Secondary vs. secondary (applied) dominants.

• Changed language to provide latitude for choices in performance elements that may be appropriate at higher skill levels, reinforcing the concept of suitability and its relative impact on performers’ ability to deliver barbershop style elements.

• Reinforced song and arrangement language to reflect the continuum of “weak to strong” that rates relative adherence to barbershop

MUSIC

Judge Contestant's Name Contest: Region # Int’l Quartet Semifinals

Contestant # Chorus

Region #

■ Int’l Chorus Semifinals

J UDGING SONG & ARRANGEMENT Merit as Barbershop Material Song: Form/Melody/Lyrics

Int’l Quartet Finals

Date

■ Int’l Chorus Finals

Harmony Classic

CRITERIA (0-100)

SUITABILITY TO PERFORMER

PERFORMANCE Vocal Skills Harmony Accuracy

Arrangement: Harmonization/ Voicing/Creative Devices Song 1

Quartet

Barbershop Style Song 1

Tempo Rhythm Musical Unity Phrasing

Song 2

Song 2

Dynamics Musical Energy Musical Artistry

SONG #1

PERFORMANCE EVALUATION

style hallmarks to improve understanding of the idea of strength of music choice for contest and to move away from the idea of “contestability” as a finite description.

• New language was added that amplifies the importance of assessing the song and arrangement’s Suitability to the Performer in scoring the Music category.

• Reinforced language regarding suitability that points the contestant toward the strongest possible barbershop songs, arrangements, and performance choices.

• Incorporated positive and gender inclusive language throughout the Music category narrative.

Alterations to judging scoresheet Judge

SONG #2 The Music Category continues to describe the strongest possible choices in Song and Arrangement for the barbershop style. Songs and arrangements lie on a continuum from weak to strong in their relative adherence to these standards. There can be no “list of contestable arrangements” because in addition to the evaluation of relative strength, the ability of the performer to bring forward the barbershop style elements of harmony accuracy, tempo, rhythm, musical unity, phrasing, dynamics, musical energy, and musical artistry critically impact the scoring of a song/arrangement in contest.

Song and Arrangement, and Performance elements balance on the fulcrum of Suitability to the Performer, uniting the song and arrangement and performance elements of the category via SCORING LEVELS the performer themselves. Understanding the skills required for a score (for one song) song level 1 94 - your 100 A+ particular song/arrangement and knowing current skill is 86 - 93 A critical to scoring success in the Music Category.

80 - 85 A74 - 79 B+ We are excited to bring you these updates to the Music category.

66 - 73 B 60 - 65 BThere are so many wonderful barbershop54songs and arrangements C+ - 59 score 46 - 53 C song 2 waiting for you to bring them to the contest stage!

40 - 45 34 - 39 26 - 33 20 - 25 0 - 19

CD+ D DF

Music Category Task Force members are Jana Gutenson, Judge

• The top of the revised scoresheet (dashboard) Specialist, Chairman; Corinna Garriock, Certified Music TOTAL that lists the elements of the category now Judge; and Kay Bromert, Judge; Jan Meyer, Certified MusicSCORE JSS-1 Revised 12/24 SWEET ADELINES INTERNATIONAL reflects the role of Suitability to the Performer Approved Music Judge, Arrangers Development Program. in scoring by inserting that commentary between Song and Arrangement and Performance and removing it from the bottom of the page.

Find the Judging Category Description • The Music category is now judged holistically Book (JCDB) under the Education tab and combines the song and arrangement requirements and performance elements so when you are logged in to the Sweet that 100 points are available for each song in Adelines International website. a performance.

July 2025 | 19

B

ay Area Showcase Chorus, like so many other choruses, decreased in membership during the pandemic. Our coffers are adequate, but with fewer dues-paying members, we needed supplemental sources of income. Our 2022 online/virtual auction was a success, so we decided to try an in-person live auction – gala style!

Our goal was to create a festive, special atmosphere that would delight new audience members and potential supporters. As our task list grew, we invited chorus members to help, and they came through!

the check-out process, people paid for their auction items. Next time, we will handle the check-out process ahead of time by asking for credit card information upon registration and using auction software.

Planning ahead A member with experience leading non-profit fundraising auctions initiated discussions in August. She introduced us to a professional auctioneer specializing in non-profits. He coached and counseled us through the process.

Wanting to support our local community and encourage more chorus representation, we contacted the local India Community Center that has a wonderful large ballroom and on-site kitchen able to cater a fancy buffet dinner. One chorus member worked with the venue and catering staff and another was successful in getting a wine industry contact to donate wine for the sponsored tables and half price bottles for all other tables. Other volunteers donated beer, cider and soft drinks.

One member was in charge of obtaining items or experiences for the live and silent auctions. Our biggest items were week-long vacations in Hawaii, Lake Tahoe, and Napa Valley, but members also donated tickets to professional football games, expensive wine baskets, beach getaways nearby, and more.

Some members worked with vendors and local contacts to sell tables for ten people at $1000 USD per table. All of the tables were filled by commercial sponsors and chorus members buying tables for families and friends. More tables were “open seating” for chorus members, friends, and anyone else we could reach through ongoing marketing emails and social media posts. Marketing reminders went out more frequently as the day approached.

The day of the gala Registration and meal purchases were made in advance, so our treasurer trained helpers to handle check-in, which included handing out pre-purchased drink tickets as guests entered. During

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A talented chorus member put together two slide shows: one with miscellaneous photos of the chorus that played during the cocktail hour and one featuring the auction items and speakers for use during the presentations. During cocktail hour, three chorus quartets took turns mingling through the large hall, serenading our guests.

Our chorus performed two sets of three songs each, one at the beginning of the evening to demonstrate who we are and why we were asking for support and one at the end to showcase our contest set. A really fun auction item was a chance to sing We Are Family with us; two bidders had a grand time singing with us!

Our auctioneer, Ben, was a wonderfully engaging speaker and trained his “bid spotters” to help him see who was raising their number to bid among the group of nearly 200 attendees. Others were trained to keep track of those bids.

A chorus member who works in sales and has a truly joyful personality spoke about chorus life as a means of empowerment and awakening for so many women. Sharing that she had grown from a small-town Missouri girl with no dance experience into a front-row performer and one of our leaders of choreography elicited a great round of applause.

Lessons learned, money earned The planning team met monthly at first on Zoom, then biweekly, and then weekly to make sure everything was covered. We had a great project leader keeping track of action items and helping us make sure no stone was left unturned, but it was still a LOT of work!

But it was worth it … we cleared over $42,000 USD! With matching funds available to some bidders from their places of employment, the amount will grow considerably. For choruses willing and able to work together on a major project, consider such a gala fund-raising event!

If you are interested in learning more about our gala, please contact us at info@singharmony.org.

Julie Starr is Master Director of Bay Area Showcase Chorus.

A professional videographer was hired to create a video to remember the fun everyone had at the Bay Area Showcase Chorus fundraiser gala.

The Pitch Pipe needs you!

Have you had a meaningful, funny, or interesting experience during rehearsal or performance?

Have you spent time reflecting on what barbershop singing or Sweet Adelines means to you?

Have you received or witnessed a kindness from your Sweet Adelines family that you’d like to share?

We’d love to read it — and possibly print it in The Pitch Pipe!

Send your submissions to communications@sweetadelines.com with “Attn: The Pitch Pipe” in the subject line.

A few general guidelines:

• Tell a story (beginning, middle, end).

• Keep your submission between 500–700 words in length.

• Send your submission as a Word document.

• Send photos. (High resolution is great, but send what you have!)

• Include a 1–2 sentence bio telling your chorus/quartet affiliation, voice part, etc.

• All submissions are subject to editing, and not all submissions will be printed in The Pitch Pipe. (Some may be used for other SA media.)

You will be notified about the status of your submission.

July 2025 | 21

Creating a Culture of Belonging: How One Chorus Director Uses the Chorus Toolkit to Foster Inclusion

S

weet Adelines International is deeply committed to fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and diverse community. The organization created the Chorus Toolkit to support choruses in this mission. The toolkit is a dynamic and evolving resource designed to help chorus leaders build a strong culture of belonging within their ensembles. The toolkit includes tools for selfassessment, best practices, historical context, inclusive language, coaching options, and actionable steps that choruses can take to assess and improve their DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) efforts.

For Allison Lynskey, Director of Potomac Harmony Chorus and DEI Team Lead for Region 14, the toolkit has been foundational in shaping how she leads with empathy and inclusivity.

“I’ve been a Sweet Adeline for over 10 years, and while I’m not new to the organization, I am newer to chorus leadership,” she said. “Having a structured resource like the Chorus Toolkit has been incredibly helpful in giving me tools and direction for how to make DEI a natural and integrated part of our chorus culture.

Allison’s implementation of the Chorus Toolkit has been both intentional and collaborative. Her work with Region 14’s DEI Task Force, along with chorus members who are also regional DEI contributors, has led to the creation of a new regional initiative called Community Connections. Launched in March 2025, the initiative is open to the entire region and incorporates discussionbased Zoom sessions focused on sections of the Chorus Toolkit.

The first session, “Understanding the Need for DEI,” included guided discussions facilitated by Allison and team members with experience on the International DEI Council. This format allowed attendees to reflect on personal experiences of inclusion and exclusion within their choruses and helped reinforce the idea that

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DEI efforts are rooted in shared values and community care.

The format of Community Connections is simple and effective: a short presentation using a section from the toolkit, followed by breakout discussions and group sharing. By keeping the sessions to one hour, the task force ensures accessibility and ease of participation. “We’re building a support network,” Allison explained. “It’s about showing people that they’re not alone in this work and that we’re all learning together.”

Using Toolkit Components for Chorus Growth Allison has utilized multiple elements of the Chorus Toolkit to guide both regional and chorus-level growth:

• Leadership Self-Assessment: As a director,

she completed the leadership survey, which she found particularly valuable for identifying growth areas, such as leaning into difficult conversations and modeling inclusive leadership behaviors.

• Chapter Choices: Allison emphasized the

usefulness of this section, which provides specific,

actionable steps that leaders can take. “Sometimes the scope of DEI work can feel overwhelming,” she noted.

“Having a checklist or menu of options makes it more manageable and practical.”

• Historical Context: Equipped with a strong

background in DEI through her work in education and regional leadership, Allison found great value in the

historical elements of the toolkit. “It gives me language and context to talk with others who may not already

be on the same page,” she said. “It helps ground the conversation.”

How to Get Involved: A central theme in Allison’s

leadership is the creation of a chorus environment where all members can bring their full selves. From choosing a new rehearsal space with accessibility in mind (including public transportation, elevators, and inclusive facilities) to re-evaluating language used in meetings and music, her chorus has embraced a continuous process of reflection and growth.

Allison also highlighted how using the toolkit helped her chorus have open conversations about sensitive topics like the Song Assessment Tool. “Because we had already laid the groundwork with the toolkit – building that culture of openness and understanding – we were able to talk about challenging issues in a more constructive way,” she said.

Allison’s pitch to other directors: “The Chorus Toolkit helps you understand where your chorus has been, where you are now, and where you want to go. It gives you the tools to create a culture where people can be their authentic selves, which leads to more meaningful music-making and deeper connections among members.”

A 10 for Usability Allison rated the usability of the toolkit a 10/10, applauding its clear structure and modular design. She sees it as accessible for directors at any stage in their DEI journey.

She emphasizes that the most powerful element of the toolkit may be the way it invites introspection. “It’s not just about checking boxes, it’s about thinking differently, asking better questions, and building trust.”

As illustrated by Allison’s example, the Chorus Toolkit is more than a document. It’s a guide, a catalyst, and a bridge—one that can help every chorus build a future that is more inclusive, supportive, and harmonious.

• Coaching and Support: Though many of the

contributors to the toolkit are also part of Region 14, Allison treats their involvement as an opportunity to

bring coaching and peer leadership into her own chorus and regional work. “We’ve learned so much from one

another. The toolkit has been a great vehicle for these

Find the Chorus Toolkit and other DEI resources under the Education tab when you log in to the Sweet Adelines International website.

conversations.”

July 2025 | 23

y n o m r a H p u d n u o R

Harmony Roundup is a place to share your adventures and achievements!

Let us know what your chorus or quartet has been doing in your community. Email your submissions and photos to communications@sweetadelines.com.

Where We Sang Singing the U.S. national anthem were A Cappella Bay Chorus (#9) at a Clearwater Threshers baseball game, Skyline Chorus (#8) at a Colorado Rockies baseball game, and Scioto Valley Chorus (#4) at a Columbus Clippers baseball game.

Lady Shave Porvoo Chorus (#32) sang for runners at Naisten Kymppi, a major women’s wellbeing and running event in Finland.

How We Sang Idaho Falls A Cappella Chorus (#8) sang at the 26th Annual Barbershop Festival in Rexburg, Idaho in March. Jersey Sound Chorus (#19) received a grant from the Camden County Cultural & Heritage Commission. Pearls of the Sound Chorus (#32) won second in the chorus competition at the European Barbershop Convention.

Valley Forge Chorus (#19) had a great time singing at the Swarthmore Fun Fair.

Jersey Sound Chorus (#19) performed at a local park’s 50th anniversary.

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Olympia Chorus (#13) performed for the Thurston County Board of Commissioners (Washington, USA) to celebrate the county’s Women’s History Month Proclamation.

Vocal Audacity Quartet (#25) sang the U.S. national anthem at a Tulsa Drillers baseball game

Ultra L (Satellite Region-Japan) made history, competiting for scores in the International Division at the Region 35 (New Zealand) competition.

Members of Columbia River Chorus joined Pride of Portland Chorus (both #13) to sing with Sunnyside Symphony Orchestra at their performance of The Planets.

Pacific Empire Chorus (#12) took second place in marching/ walking groups at the Butter & Eggs Parade in Petaluma, California (USA).

A Cappella West Chorus (#34) performed at Singing in the City, part of the Boorloo Heritage Festival in Perth.

Aberdeen Chorus (#31) won three categories at the Aberdeen Music Festival.

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Harmony up Round

Endeavour Harmony Chorus (#34) performed at the Vivid Sydney Festival.

Pride of Toledo Chorus (#17) was honored to sing at their city’s February Naturalization Center at the Toledo Club, where 40 new U.S. citizens were recognized.

Magic City Chorus (#26) joined in the national celebration of Pink Shirt Day at rehearsal. They wrote, “We join others who are taking a stand against bullying and promoting kindness and inclusivity.”

Vocal Dimension Chorus (#31) performed at the Choral Connections concert, along with the Include Choir, a choir for people with communications needs. The event, sponsored by Redhill Redstone Rotary Club and Include.org, raised money for several local charities.

Headliners Chorus (#34) was proud to commemorate ANZAC Day, leading the hymns and the national anthems for the dawn service and the main service in Balina, New South Wales (Australia).

Carolina Harmony Chorus (#14) sang for the runners at their local Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, an event that supports breast cancer research.

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Harmony up Round

Members of Verdugo Hills Chorus and Valkyries Quartet (both #11) walked in the PanCAN PurpleStride in Santa Monica to raise funds for pancreatic cancer research in honor of Associate Director Janice Santanostasi Kueppers.They raised more than $25,000 USD.

Evergreen Chorus (#15) sang at The Arc Greater Hudson Valley Partners at Work Breakfast. The Arc is a not-for-profit agency that provides support to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Sullivan, Orange, and Dutchess Counties in New York.

Merrimack Valley Chorus (#1) quartets Voices of the Valley and Harmonique performed at a meeting of the Cercle Jeanne-Mance de Lowell, a group founded in 1913 in Lowell, Massachusetts (USA) as a social and educational club for the city’s Franco-American women.

2025 International Champion North Metro Chorus (#16) gathered personal care items and sweet treats to support Nellie's, a Toronto-based organization that provides shelter and support to women and non-binary folks facing gender-based violence.

In Remembrance

Valerie Clowes

A group of Sweet Adelines wanted to do something in remembrance of Valerie Clowes, who passed away last year. They had a “remembrance flame” plaque made that is very similar to the one Sweet Adelines International presented to Valerie in 2016 at the international convention as a posthumous recognition for her mother, Lana Clowes. Lana’s removal from the organization during the years of exclusion of Black singers was part of what led to the formation of Harmony, Inc. The quote on the plaque is from Valerie’s acceptance speech: “That messy, painful past is out in the full light of day and it’s here to teach us, not to haunt us.”

An explanation of Valerie’s place in Sweet Adelines history and list of the names of the 19 singers who contributed to this remembrance accompanies the plaque. The plaque is housed in the library case upstairs at Sweet Adelines International headquarters in Tulsa, Oklahoma (USA).

Read more about Lana Clowes in the July 2018 issue of The Pitch Pipe or by visiting www.sweetadelines.com/diversity-equity-inclusion.

July 2025 | 27

“Always something new to learn” Sweet Adelines International Donor Margaret Hanson

M

argaret Hanson says when she needs to tell someone about Sweet Adelines International, she relies on the organization’s mission statement, especially the part about education: “Education is at the heart of Sweet Adelines International. In every area of our organization, it is education that enables us to achieve our stated mission.”

“I love learning,” she says. “With barbershop music, there is always something new to learn, or a new way to learn.”

That’s one reason Margaret has designated the education program in her generous donation to Sweet Adelines International.

A long-time supporter of barbershop education, she recently made an estate gift to ensure she can continue to give singers the experience and education that has made her own barbershop career so precious to her.

Asked what inspired her to become a member of the Nancy Bergman Legacy Society for donors who make estate gifts, Margaret says, “I love this quote from our president, Mary Rhea: ‘Through our music, we discover common ground, build friendships, and create music that leaves a lasting impact far beyond the stage.’”

Margaret has loved singing for as long as she can remember.

“I’ve been singing all my life, starting with family car trips, then in church and school choirs,” she says. “I loved music and singing so much, I decided I wanted to teach music to children, but by the time I got to college, extracurricular classes were being taken away from the schools, including choirs. Every December, I would get together with some college mates and sing Christmas carols at the local hospitals. In 1999, one friend was invited by her niece to sing in the Mission Valley Chorus holiday program. She insisted it was for me. I was a member by February and competed in April. I was hooked.”

And she’s still hooked! “I love to sing and perform,” she says.

“Performing was the main reason I first joined Sweet Adelines. I love to bring beautiful music to audiences. I love the harmonies, and I get to sing bass!”

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Since joining, she has sung bass with Bay Area Showcase Chorus (front row for 14+ years!) and now with Toast of Tampa Show Chorus. She has also performed with many quartets, including Motif Quartet with whom she competed regionally. She’s also been active in her chapters, serving in many roles including quartet coordinator, finance coordinator, membership coordinator, secretary/records coordinator, competition chair, quartet audition committee member, round-up director, voicer, costume committee member, housing chair for regional and international conventions, chorus contest booklet editor, newsletter contributing editor, and show producer.

Through it all, Margaret has taken advantage of the wealth of education the organization offers.

“Region 12 had and still has a great education program,” she says. “Besides the twice-a-year workshops, I participated in LAW School (Learn Arm Waving) classes every year. Region 9 has great yearly workshops, too.

I’ve also attended great international education events over the years. On top of all that is the excellent coaching by the amazing International Faculty.”

Singing, performing, learning…Margaret says Sweet Adelines International has given her all this and more.

“I'm very proud to be a member of this organization,” she says.

“Sweet Adelines has impacted my life in many ways. I know that it has changed me and has given me so many opportunities to grow as a person, and these benefits have carried over into my career.

I love to learn and grow, and I like seeing other women being successful and trying new things. Sweet Adelines International has done so much for me that I feel like it's important to give back.”

If you would like to include Sweet Adelines International in your estate planning, please contact Susan Smith, Chief Philanthropy and Administrative Officer at susan@sweetadelines.com.

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To purchase, contact Sweet Adelines International Sales Department at Sales@sweetadelines.com or call 1.918.622.1444 ext. 112 or toll free 1.877.545.5441.

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July 2025 | 37

A New Way to Help Chapters THRIVE! A Q&A with Sweet Adelines International Membership Manager Laura Crockett

To Help Regions Increase Vibrant Engagement

A

t their best, Sweet Adelines International chapters are nurturing, exciting, creative environments where members feel fulfilled. A lot goes into making them that way, and a new program is here to help!

THRIVE (To Help Regions Increase Vibrant Engagement) is a two-year pilot program that runs from May 1, 2025 to April 30, 2027. A direct investment from Sweet Adelines International into our choruses and regions, the program is designed to help chapters thrive by focusing on cultural and administrative health. THRIVE is also designed to increase chorus retention through focus on non-musical needs such as chorus culture, administration, membership recruitment/retention, finances, community relations/marketing, leadership training, and more.

To accomplish this goal, Sweet Adelines International will provide regions with significant financial resources to provide support targeted to the needs of their chapters through visits and education (in-person and virtual) from Sweet Adelines leaders and more. THRIVE builds on the chapter health principles explored during the Mission:Retention initiative and utilizes resources created during the Ignite the Sound initiative.

We spoke with Sweet Adelines International Membership Manager Laura Crockett to learn more.

How did the Value Proposition Task Force inspire THRIVE?

How is THRIVE related to Ignite the Sound and Mission:Retention?

In 2021, the Value Proposition Task Force interviewed over 50 happy, healthy choruses (referred to us by their regions) to see what made them that way. They reported that chorus health had everything to do with chorus culture and administration. We also saw that when we looked at our data.

I work with chapters that are dissolving, and I’ve learned that almost all choruses that leave the organization do so because of a breakdown in chorus administration. For example, their membership numbers get too low, and that affects finances, among other things. Sometimes that is because they need to focus on recruitment or they need to reassess and focus on who they are and what they offer so they can market their unique identity. It all had to do with chorus culture and administration. The importance of healthy chorus culture and administration cannot be overstated.

With help from our choruses and quartets, we created so many good resources for Ignite the Sound. The ones that resonated with choruses were the ones involving chorus culture and administration, including marketing, membership, recruitment, and retention.

When we started Mission:Retention, we created a toolkit compiled from past resources that have been a success, like the retired Real Guide to Growth. The toolkit takes you on a journey of chorus culture, starting at the foundations, through retention analysis, then into leadership. A strong chorus culture is very much based on leadership training, so we thought focusing on that would be a good next step. THRIVE encourages choruses to apply the resources created during those initiatives..

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To learn more about THRIVE and access the resource library, visit www.sweetadelines.com/THRIVE (Remember to log in!)

How does THRIVE benefit healthy choruses?

Chorus culture and administration is a constant journey.

Sometimes a chorus might think, ‘We’re doing great; we don’t need to work on that,’ but then when something starts to slip, it’s much harder to fix. Maintaining chorus culture is like growing plants: It needs constant nourishment. You have to water it every day if you want it to thrive. You can’t just water it once during regionals.

That’s where THRIVE comes in. Even healthy choruses can stay ahead by strengthening leadership, revisiting their mission and values, and refining internal systems. Because regions are given flexibility in how they use THRIVE funds, support can be tailored to a chorus’s unique stage of development, as well as to the unique needs of the choruses within a specific region.

We gave a ton of leeway to regions because they know their choruses best. The only requirement is that the funds support chorus culture and administration. It’s meant to be flexible and adaptable.

A strong leadership team and a well-run chorus don’t just maintain success—they build on it. The idea is to give choruses resources they can use before issues arise—not just in response to them.

There are resources on the THRIVE page of our website, and I encourage all choruses, even the thriving ones, to go through at least the first half of the Mission: Retention toolkit. That foundation work can strengthen any group.

How does THRIVE benefit the overall organization?

When choruses are healthy, regions are healthy. When regions are healthy, the organization is strong. THRIVE is a direct investment in our infrastructure.

A key part of THRIVE’s design is allowing regional leadership to respond to the specific needs of their choruses. Sweet Adelines are incredibly creative. We didn’t want to limit that. We wanted to give regions the freedom to design support programs that fit their choruses’ geography, size, and culture. All of the work regions and choruses do through THRIVE supports a welcoming, sustainable environment. We always say people come for the music, but they stay for the friendships and community. THRIVE helps us protect and grow that community.

Ready to THRIVE?

Whether your chorus is flourishing, rebuilding, or somewhere in between, THRIVE offers tools and support to help you grow stronger from the inside out. With a focus on leadership, culture, and community, this initiative is about more than surviving—it's about creating the kind of chorus where people want to stay, sing, and lead.

“We want choruses to know that this isn’t a one-size-fits-all program,” says Laura. “THRIVE is built to be shaped by your region, your chorus, your needs. The resources are there—now it’s about putting them to work.”

To get started, explore the THRIVE page on the Sweet Adelines International website. You’ll find toolkits, presentations, and guides, many developed during Ignite the Sound and Mission: Retention.

When choruses THRIVE, we all do!

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Regional Results 2025 Region #1 North Atlantic

Quartets First Place

Saffron • Score: 605 Helen O 'Rourke (t) Sirens of Gotham Chapter Amanda Fowski (l) Chapter-at-Large Region 1 Valeri Reynolds (bt) Chapter-at-Large Region 1 Susan Berry (bs) Chapter-at-Large Region 1 Songs: Between You And The Bees (A. Dale); All The Way (T. Gentry)

Second Place

Honey Bunches of Notes • Score: 598

Third Place

Maine Squeeze • Score: 586

Competing Quartets: 17

First Place Saffron

Choruses First Place

Farmington Valley Chorus Cheryl Wilcox, Director Score: 615 • 40 on stage Songs: Once Upon A Time (J. Dale); I Never Knew (R. Craig & F. King)

Second Place First Place Farmington Valley Chorus

Merrimack Valley Chorus Carol Smolenski, Sally Jeffery, Directors Score: 613 • 35 on stage

Third Place

Coastline Show Chorus Debra Lynn, Director Score: 577 • 31 on stage

Division A

Royal River Chorus Rhonda Williams, Director Score: 557 • 25 on stage Songs: A Wonderful Day Like Today (J. Minshall); When You Wish Upon A Star (N. Bergman)

Division AA Division A Royal River Chorus

Farmington Valley Chorus Cheryl Wilcox, Director Score: 615 • 40 on stage Songs: Once Upon A Time (J. Dale); I Never Knew (R. Craig & F. King)

Most Improved Chorus

Heart of the Valley Chorus Stephanie Flinker, Director Score: 496 • 14 on stage Points Improved: 98

Competing Choruses: 14 Photo Attribution: Chris Marion Photography Division AA Farmington Valley Chorus

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Regional Results 2025 Region #2 Border Lakes

Quartets First Place

Lumos • Score: 611 Andrea Petzold (t) Motor City Blend Chapter Shayna Stubblefield (l) Motor City Blend Chapter Debra Densmore (bt) Motor City Blend Chapter Tamela Moore (bs) Chapter-at-Large Region 2 Songs: It's You I Like (C. Outerbridge); Paralyzed (O. Blackwell)

Second Place

Spectrum • Score: 591

Third Place

Limitless • Score: 576

Competing Quartets: 10

First Place Lumos

Choruses First Place

Motor City Blend Chorus LeAnn Hazlett, Director Score: 664 • 56 on stage Songs: May I Never Love Again (R. Craig); Cuddle Up a Little Closer (C. Hine)

Second Place First Place Motor City Blend Chorus

Fenton Lakes Chorus Jeanne Lundberg, Director Score: 584 • 35 on stage

Third Place

Grand Harmony Chorus Silas Chinsen, Director Score: 576 • 39 on stage

Division A

Song of the Lakes Chorus Maria Christian, Director Score: 537 • 18 on stage Songs: All The Things You Are ( J. Minshall); Blue Skies (R. Craig)

Division AA Division A Song of the Lakes Chorus

Fenton Lakes Chorus Jeanne Lundberg, Director Score: 584 • 35 on stage Songs: Goody Goodbye (G. Avener); What I Did For Love (C. Schmidt)

Most Improved Chorus

Song of the Lakes Chorus Maria Christian, Director Score: 537 • 18 on stage Points Improved: 59

Number of Competing Choruses: 12 Photo Attribution: Steingard Studios Division AA Fenton Lakes Chorus

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Regional Results 2025 Region #3 Midwest Harmony

Quartets First Place

PRISM • Score: 632 Cynthia Ahlgrim (t) Melodeers Chapter Jenelle Lambert (l) Melodeers Chapter Janet Masters (bt) Choral-Aires Chapter Deborah Lee (bs) Choral-Aires Chapter Songs: Diamonds Are A Girl’s Best Friend (L. Robin, J. Styne); Love Letters Straight From Your Heart (J. Arns)

Second Place

Stiletto • Score: 581

Third Place

Cool Beans • Score: 541

Competing Quartets: 9

First Place PRISM

Choruses First Place

Melodeers Chorus Renee Porzel, Director Score: 623 • 48 on stage Songs: Rhythm Medley, Errand Girl For Rhythm, I Got Rhythm (M. Hine); Here In My Heart (J. Giallombardo)

Second Place First Place Melodeers Chorus

Midwest Crossroad Chorus Tori Hicks, Director Score: 611 • 48 on stage

Third Place

River City Sound Chorus Joan M. Boutilier, Director Score: 599 • 35 on stage

Division A

Vermillion Valley Show Chorus Kathy Filipiak, Director Score: 541 • 25 on stage Songs: All The Things You Are (J. Minshall); Brand New Shoes (D. Metzger)

Division AA Division A Vermillion Valley Show Chorus

Melodeers Chorus Renee Porzel, Director Score: 623 • 48 on stage Songs: Rhythm Medley, Errand Girl For Rhythm, I Got Rhythm (M. Hine); Here In My Heart (J. Giallombardo)

Most Improved Chorus

Vermillion Valley Show Chorus Kathy Filipiak, Director Score: 541 • 25 on stage Points Improved: 34

Competing Choruses: 10 Photo Attribution: Read Photography Division AA Melodeers Chorus

42 | July 2025

Regional Results 2025 Region #4 Harmony Heartland

Quartets First Place

Lipstick Scoundrels • Score: 651 Nancy Appel (t) Scioto Valley Chapter Christine Pirot (l) Diamond Jubilee Chapter Christina Scheiderich (bt) Scioto Valley Chapter Jennifer Davis (bs) Scioto Valley Chapter Songs: Almost There (A. Dale); If You Love Me, Really Love Me (N. Bergman)

Second Place

Don't Call Me Shirley • Score: 583

Third Place

Intrepid • Score: 581

Competing Quartets: 19

First Place Lipstick Scoundrels

Choruses First Place

Scioto Valley Chorus Kerry Denino, Director Score: 708 • 67 on stage Songs: Jumpin' East of Java (K. Kitzmiller); Can't Help Falling in Love (J. Arns)

Second Place First Place Scioto Valley Chorus

Metro Nashville Chorus Kim Wonders, Director Score: 658 • 40 on stage

Third Place

Diamond Jubilee Chorus Jean Barford, Director Score: 613 • 25 on stage

Division A

Diamond Jubilee Chorus Jean Barford, Director Score: 613 • 25 on stage Songs: He Touched Me (L. Wright); I Never Knew (D. Wright)

Division AA Division A Diamond Jubilee Chorus

Metro Nashville Chorus Kim Wonders, Director Score: 658 • 40 on stage Songs: Time After Time (J. Arns); This Can't Be Love (D. Wright)

Most Improved Chorus

White River Sound Chorus Debbie Thistle, Director Score: 544 • 23 on stage Points Improved: 60

Competing Choruses: 14 Photo Attribution: Read Photography Division AA Metro Nashville Chorus

July 2025 | 43

Regional Results 2025 Region #5 Spirit of the Midwest

Quartets First Place

Venture • Score: 620 Melissa VanHousen (t) Vocal Standard Chapter Eva Marie Vargo (l) Vocal Standard Chapter Melissa Gillespie (bt) Vocal Standard Chapter Janet Velazquez (bs) Vocal Standard Chapter Songs: Paralyzed (B. Mastrull); Something Good (C. Hine)

Second Place

Fly Girls • Score: 594

Third Place

Starlight Road • Score: 576

Competing Quartets: 16

First Place Venture

Choruses First Place

River Blenders Chorus Bonnie Burke, Director Score: 620 • 66 on stage Songs: All The Things You Are (J. Minshall); The Joint is Jumpin' (N. Bergman)

Second Place First Place River Blenders Chorus

Kansas City Chorus Michelle Hunget, Director Score: 569 • 51 on stage

Third Place

Sound Celebration Chorus Terry Ludwig, Director Score: 567 • 31 on stage

Division A

Acappella Omaha Chorus Annette Wallace, Director Score: 532 • 23 on stage Songs: A Wonderful Day Like Today (J. Minshall); Yesterday I Heard the Rain (B. Graham)

Division AA Division A Acappella Omaha Chorus

Sound Celebration Chorus Terry Ludwig, Director Score: 567 • 31 on stage Songs: Time After Time (J. Arns); Somebody Loves Me (C. Hine)

Competing Choruses: 12 Photo Attribution: Jon Petersen

Division AA Sound Celebration Chorus

44 | July 2025

Regional Results 2025 Region #6 Northern Lights

Quartets First Place

Spice • Score: 621 Angela Blackwood (t) City of Lakes Chapter Heidi Dick (l) City of Lakes Chapter Liz Miller (bt) City of Lakes Chapter Jan Rick (bs) City of Lakes Chapter Songs: It's You (R. Rund); That's Life (BHS)

Second Place

Affinity • Score: 555

Third Place

On the Brink • Score: 549

Competing Quartets: 9

First Place Spice

Choruses First Place

City of Lakes Chorus Natalie Berdahl, Director Score: 649 • 62 on stage Songs: All The Things You Are (J. Minshall) I'm Looking Over a Four-Leaf Clover (E. Waesche, adapted by Briner)

Second Place First Place City of Lakes Chorus

River Rhapsody Chorus Carol Kurtz, Director Score: 566 • 15 on stage

Third Place

Spirit of Harmony Chorus Judy Weipert, Director Score: 540 • 19 on stage

Division A

River Rhapsody Chorus Carol Kurtz, Director Score: 566 • 15 on stage Songs: A Wonderful Day Like Today (J. Minshall) Once Upon A Time (J. Dale)

Division A River Rhapsody Chorus

Most Improved Chorus

Acappella Express Chorus Megan Argall, Director Score: 531 • 16 on stage Points Improved: 88

Competing Choruses: 11 Photo Attribution: Read Photography

July 2025 | 45

Regional Results 2025 Region #8 Rocky Mountain

Quartets First Place

Nothin' But Treble • Score: 652 Heleena Herrington (t) Chapter-at-Large Region 8 Mindy Butler (l) Chapter-at-Large Region 8 Ashlee Olson (bt) Chapter-at-Large Region 8 Stephanie Osmond (bs) Chapter-at-Large Region 8 Songs: Something Good (C. Hine); Diamonds Medley (L. Wright)

Second Place

Five Minutes More • Score: 618

Third Place

Ember • Score: 594

Competing Quartets: 23

First Place Nothin' But Treble

Choruses First Place

Skyline Chorus Vickie Maybury, Director Score: 738 • 93 on stage Songs: I'll Be Seeing You (A. Reimnitz); Strike Up the Band (D. Wright)

Second Place First Place Skyline Chorus

High Country Chorus Rebecca Richards, Director Score: 577 • 47 on stage

Third Place

Grand Mesa A Cappella Chorus Colette Mayers, Susanna Sorensen, Directors Score: 553 • 29 on stage

Division A

Idaho Falls A Cappella Chorus Alana Butikofer, Director Score: 533 • 15 on stage Songs: Love Letters (J. Arns); Toot Toot Tootsie Goodbye (C. Butler)

Division AA Division A Idaho Falls A Cappella Chorus

High Country Chorus Rebecca Richards, Director Score: 577 • 47 on stage Songs: In the Wee Small Hours (J. Arns); Bring Me Sunshine (D. Harrington)

Most Improved Chorus

Grand Mesa A Cappella Chorus Colette Mayers, Susanna Sorensen, Directors Score: 553 • 29 on stage Points Improved: 55

Competing Choruses: 11 Photo Attribution: Read Photography Division AA High Country Chorus

46 | July 2025

Regional Results 2025 Region #9 Coastal Harmony

Quartets First Place

Duly Noted • Score: 700 Raegan Goldman (t) Toast of Tampa Show Chapter Madison Riviere (l) Chapter-at-Large Region 9 KaleyAnna Raabe (bt) Toast of Tampa Show Chapter Emily Ellsworth (bs) Chapter-at-Large Region 9 Songs: Do I Love You (B. Graham); Wonderful Day like Today/ Nothing Can Stop Me Now (C. Hine)

Second Place

Bubbly • Score: 623

Third Place

Cantiamo• Score: 597

Competing Quartets: 14

First Place Duly Noted

Choruses First Place

Spirit of the Gulf Chorus Deanna Kaster, Gina Baker, Director Score: 665 • 82 on stage Songs: Do I Love You (S. Neal); Cabaret (M. Gellert)

Second Place First Place Spirit of the Gulf Chorus

Sound of Sunshine Chorus Gayle Burton, Director Score: 617 • 34 on stage

Third Place

Bridges of Harmony Chorus Kim Higdon, Director Score: 602 • 44 on stage

Division A

Charleston Sound Chorus David Templeton, Director Score: 543 • 23 on stage Songs: I'm Sittin' On Top of the World (N. Bergman); What'll I Do (E. Waesche/R.Craig)

Division AA Division A Charleston Sound Chorus

Sound of Sunshine Chorus Gayle Burton, Director Score: 617 • 34 on stage Songs: How Many Hearts Have You Broken? (J. Arns); Cheer Up, Charlie (S. Holmes)

Most Improved Chorus

Charleston Sound Chorus David Templeton, Director Score: 543 • 23 on stage Points Improved: 13

Competing Choruses: 11 Photo Attribution: Stacy Marie Photography Division AA Sound of Sunshine Chorus

July 2025 | 47

Regional Results 2025 Region #10 Great Gulf Coast

Quartets First Place

Essence • Score: 641 Janet Burnett (t) Houston Horizon Chapter Candice Griffith (l) Alamo Metro Chapter Kerry Parker (bt) Alamo Metro Chapter Tianna Coffey (bs) Chapter-at-Large Region 14 Songs: Someone Like You (L. Wright); It's You (P. McAlexander)

Second Place

Saving Grace • Score: 619

Third Place

KLiMB • Score: 564

Competing Quartets: 10

First Place Essence

Choruses First Place

The Woodlands Show Chorus Kerri Mauney, Director Score: 623 • 39 on stage Songs: Love Letters (Straight From Your Heart) (J. Arns); Hit Me With a Hot Note (P. McAlexander)

Second Place First Place The Woodlands Show Chorus

Texas Harmony Chorus Karla Callaway, Director Score: 575 • 40 on stage

Third Place

A Cappella Unlimited Chorus Kathyrn Dane, Director Score: 551 • 21 on stage

Division A

A Cappella Unlimited Chorus Kathyrn Dane, Director Score: 551 • 21 on stage Songs: You Are My Sunshine (V. Uhr); A Wonderful Day Like Today (J. Minshall)

Division AA Division A A Cappella Unlimited Chorus

The Woodlands Show Chorus Kerri Mauney, Director Score: 623 • 39 on stage Songs: Love Letters (Straight From Your Heart) (J. Arns); Hit Me With a Hot Note (P. McAlexander)

Most Improved Chorus Bayou Blend Chorus Daniel Zeglar, Director Score: 506 • 16 on stage Points Improved: 78

Competing Choruses: 11 Photo Attribution: Read Photography Division AA The Woodlands Show Chorus

48 | July 2025

Regional Results 2025 Region #11 Sequoia Pacific

Quartets First Place

SwingTime • Score: 635 Sally McLeish (t) Agoura Hills Harmony Chapter Shawnna Dechant (l) Santa Monica Chapter Courtney Anderson-Georges (bt) Chapter-at-Large Region 11 Susan Kegley (bs) Chapter-at-Large Region 11 Songs: All The Things You Are (J. Minshall); The Start of Something (S. Kitzmiller)

Second Place

By Special Request • Score: 623

Third Place

The Valkyries • Score: 621

Competing Quartets: 14

First Place SwingTime

Choruses First Place

Santa Monica Chorus Laura Pallas Singer, Director Score: 654 • 55 on stage Songs: They Just Keep Moving the Line (S. Tramack); If I Had My Way (D. Harrington)

Second Place First Place Santa Monica Chorus

Voices United Chorus Elizabeth Orr, Director Score: 533 • 15 on stage

Third Place

Agoura Hills Harmony Chorus Monica Tautkus, Director Score: 527 • 29 on stage

Division A

Voices United Chorus Elizabeth Orr, Director Score: 533 • 15 on stage Songs: I Can't Give You Anything But Love (N.Bergman); Now is the Hour (J. Adler)

Division AA Division A Voices United Chorus

Agoura Hills Harmony Chorus Monica Tautkus, Director Score: 527 • 29 on stage Songs: If Ever I Would Leave You (C. Hine); Come Fly With Me (C. Schmidt)

Competing Choruses: 9 Photo Attribution: Wyeth Lilley Photography

Division AA Agoura Hills Harmony Chorus

July 2025 | 49

Regional Results 2025 Region #12 Pacific Shores

Quartets First Place

Twilight • Score: 613 Anna-Pia Hubacher (t) Diablo Vista Chapter Kristi Penelton (l) Sacramento Valley Chapter Bridget Barrett (bt) Diablo Vista Chapter Jennifer Febre (bs) Harborlites Chapter Songs: This Could Be the Start of Something Big (parody-lyrics mod) (L. Wright); At Last (N. Bergman)

Second Place

Seismic Sound • Score: 595

Third Place

Verve • Score: 585

Competing Quartets: 12

First Place Twilight

Choruses First Place

Pacific Empire Chorus Patty Pennycook, Director Score: 613 • 36 on stage Songs: If I Had My Way (D. Harrington); Wonderful Day Like Today (J. Minshall)

Second Place First Place Pacific Empire Chorus

Mission Valley Chorus Angela Suraci, Director Score: 598 • 33 on stage

Third Place

Oregon Spirit Chorus Kathy Scheel, Director Score: 596 • 68 on stage

Division A

Emerald Valley Chorus Lauren Kahn, Director Score: 542 • 25 on stage Songs: Wildflowers Know (L. Kahn); We Were Wrong (L. Kahn)

Division AA Division A Emerald Valley Chorus

Pacific Empire Chorus Patty Pennycook, Director Score: 613 • 36 on stage Songs: If I Had My Way (D. Harrington); Wonderful Day Like Today (J. Minshall)

Most Improved Chorus

High Desert Harmony Chorus Amy Fleming, Director Score: 560 • 33 on stage Points Improved: 89

Competing Choruses: 13 Photo Attribution: Read Photography Division AA Pacific Empire Chorus

50 | July 2025

Regional Results 2025 Region #13 North by Northwest

Quartets First Place

Voxy • Score: 677 Kadi Holdsworth (t) A Cappella Joy Chapter Alena Hemingway (l) Chapter-at-Large Region 13 Megan Hofkamp (bt) Jet Cities Chapter Judy Pozsgay (bs) Westcoast Harmony Chapter Songs: I Got the Sun in the Morning (D. Sangster); The Nearness of You (J. Brockman)

Second Place

Rhapsody • Score: 624

Third Place

Rewind • Score: 612

Competing Quartets: 23

First Place Voxy

Choruses First Place

A Cappella Joy Chorus Nikki Blackmer, Director Score: 666 • 54 on stage Songs: Some Enchanted Evening (D. Wright); I Wanna Dance With Somebody (K. Kitzmiller)

Second Place First Place A Cappella Joy Chorus

Voices Northwest Chorus Charlene O'Connor, Director Score: 602 • 26 on stage

Third Place

Sound Harmony Chorus Elizabeth Davies, Director Score: 568 • 25 on stage

Division A

Sound Harmony Chorus Elizabeth Davies, Director Score: 568 • 25 on stage Songs: I'm Looking Over a 4 Leaf Clover (E. Waesche); Time After Time (J. Arns)

Division AA Division A Sound Harmony Chorus

Voices Northwest Chorus Charlene O'Connor, Director Score: 602 • 26 on stage Songs: This Can't Be Love (D. Wright); Time After Time (E. Waesche)

Most Improved Chorus Grand Olympics Chorus Connie Alward, Director Score: 438 • 16 on stage Points Improved: 71

Competing Choruses: 17 Photo Attribution: InSpirit StudioZ Photography Division AA Voices Northwest Chorus

July 2025 | 51

Regional Results 2025 Region #14 Heart of the Blue Ridge

Quartets First Place

Rosegold Four • Score: 638 Brittany Knight (t) Greater Richmond Chapter Vera Crouse (l) Greater Richmond Chapter Harriette Walters (bt) Greater Nassau Chapter Krista Costa (bs) Greater Richmond Chapter Songs: Everybody Loves My Baby Medley (L. Wright); If I Had My Way (D. Harrington)

Second Place

Wicked Blend • Score: 614

Third Place

Probly Fine • Score: 611

Competing Quartets: 15

First Place Rosegold Four

Choruses First Place

Song of Atlanta Chorus Becki Hine, Director Score: 744 • 81 on stage Songs: Gimme Gimme (M. Hine); If I Can Dream (S. Armstrong, C. Hine)

Second Place First Place Song of Atlanta Chorus

Vienna-Falls Chorus Claire Gardiner, Director Score: 605 • 28 on stage

Third Place

Greater Richmond Chorus Vera Crouse, Director Score: 594 • 40 on stage

Division A

Carolina Harmony Chorus Susie Smith, Director Score: 576 • 23 on stage Songs: Next Time I Love (L. Wright); Oh! Look At Me Now (A. Dale)

Division AA Division A Carolina Harmony Chorus

Vienna-Falls Chorus Claire Gardiner, Director Score: 605 • 28 on stage Songs: Oh! Look At Me Now (A. Dale); It's You (R. Rund)

Most Improved Chorus Virginia Coast Chorus Cheri Danner, Director Score: 572 • 25 on stage Points Improved: 37

Competing Choruses: 14 Photo Attribution: Freeze-Frame Photography Division AA Vienna-Falls Chorus

52 | July 2025

Regional Results 2025 Region #15 Greater NY/NJ

Quartets First Place

Yellow Brick Road • Score: 658 Diane Duff (t) Liberty Oak Chapter Heidi Wilson (l) Liberty Oak Chapter Patricia Danner (bt) Chapter-at-Large Region 15 Shayna Atkinson (bs) Liberty Oak Chapter Songs: Paralyzed (B. Mustrull); What Kind of Fool Am I (D. Harrington)

Second Place

Illuminate • Score: 635

Third Place

Aligned • Score: 541

Competing Quartets: 22

First Place Yellow Brick Road

Choruses First Place

Sirens of Gotham Chorus Anna Chelak, Director Score: 650 • 36 on stage Songs: Let you Break My Heart Again (M. Hine); Some Like it Hot (M. Hine)

Second Place First Place Sirens of Gotham Chorus

Spirit of Syracuse Chorus Alicia Caron, Amanda Sky Harris, Directors Score: 636 • 62 on stage

Third Place

Liberty Oak Chorus Katie Blackwood, Director Score: 635 • 74 on stage

Division A

Hickory Tree Chorus Carolyn Schmidt, Director Score: 569 • 23 on stage Songs: What I Did for Love (C. Schmidt); Atlantic City Medley (C. Schmidt)

Division AA Division A Hickory Tree Chorus

Sirens of Gotham Chorus Anna Chelak, Director Score: 650 • 36 on stage Songs: Let you Break My Heart Again (M. Hine); Some Like it Hot (M. Hine)

Most Improved Chorus Golden Apple Chorus Sharon Vitkovsky, Director Score: 470 • 15 on stage Points Improved: 13

Competing Choruses: 16 Photo Attribution: Lindsey Fish (Super Source Media Studios)

Division AA Sirens of Gotham Chorus

July 2025 | 53

Regional Results 2025 Region #16 Lake Ontario

Quartets First Place

Firefly • Score: 648 Rachel Beach (t) North Metro Chapter Susann McKinley (l) North Metro Chapter Laura Norris (bt) North Metro Chapter Sharon Demy (bs) North Metro Chapter Songs: Don't Break The Heart That Loves You (G. Volk); Love Letters Straight From Your Heart (J. Arns)

Second Place

No Compromise • Score: 607

Third Place

Full Swing • Score: 602

Competing Quartets: 11

First Place Firefly

Choruses First Place

Canadian Showtime Chorus Julie Sykes, Director Score: 621 • 57 on stage Songs: Young And Foolish (B. Graham); Oh! Look At Me Now (A. Dale)

Second Place First Place Canadian Showtime Chorus

York Harmony Chorus Martha DeClerq, Director Score: 606 • 41 on stage

Third Place

The Heartland Singers Chorus Hannah Barton, Director Score: 582 • 26 on stage

Division A

Durham Shores Chorus Alana Regular, Rob Snoulten, Directors Score: 540 • 21 on stage Songs: A Wink And A Smile (K. Brittain); If I Can Dream (S. Armstrong)

Division AA Division A Durham Shores Chorus

York Harmony Chorus Martha DeClerq, Director Score: 606 • 41 on stage Songs: All The Things You Are (J. Minshall); Oh! Look At Me Now (A. Dale)

Most Improved Chorus Acapella North Chorus Donna Kleist, Director Score: 423 • 13 on stage Points Improved: 37

Competing Choruses: 14 Photo Attribution: Wayne Szeto Photgraphy Division AA York Harmony Chorus

54 | July 2025

Regional Results 2025 Region #17 Great Lakes Harmony

Quartets First Place

Lighthouse • Score: 621 JoAnn Wilson (t) Greater Cleveland Chapter Rhiannon Light (l) Greater Cleveland Chapter Marilynn Schroeter (bt) Greater Cleveland Chapter Amy Ringley (bs) Greater Cleveland Chapter Songs: I'm Flying High (N. Bergman); All The Way (T. Gentry)

Second Place

Blue Phoenix • Score: 606

Third Place

Note to Self • Score: 555

Competing Quartets: 18

First Place Lighthouse

Choruses First Place

Greater Cleveland Chorus Chelsea Selvaggio, Shannon Lange, Directors Score: 634 • 46 on stage Songs: If I Give My Heart To You (J. Clancy); Wonderful Day Like Today, (J. Minshall)

Second Place First Place Greater Cleveland Chorus

Greater Harmony Chorus Michael Hengelsberg, Director Score: 618 • 39 on stage

Third Place

Grand Rapids Chorus Holli Houtz, Director Score: 609 • 52 on stage

Division A

Pride of Toledo Chorus Dawn Seigneur, Director Score: 558 • 18 on stage Songs: Diamonds Are A Girl's Best Friend (C Schmidt); How Deep Is The Ocean? (R. Hopkins)

Division AA Division A Pride of Toledo Chorus

Greater Cleveland Chorus Chelsea Selvaggio, Shannon Lange, Directors Score: 634 • 46 on stage Songs: If I Give My Heart To You (J. Clancy); Wonderful Day Like Today (J. Minshall)

Most Improved Chorus Friendship VII Chorus Bonnie Bean, Director Score: 426 • 15 on stage Points Improved: 72

Competing Choruses: 12 Photo Attribution: Wyeth Lilley Photography Division AA Greater Cleveland Chorus

July 2025 | 55

Regional Results 2025 Region #19 Atlantic Bay-Mountain

Quartets First Place

Midnight Society • Score: 591 V. Nicole Burkhardt (t) Valley Forge Chapter Dana Cinque (l) Chapter-at-Large Region 19 Marian Garven (bt) Dundalk Chapter Pearl Steinel (bs) Valley Forge Chapter Songs: Come What May (K. Keller); Ain't Nobody's Business If I Do (M. Hine)

Second Place

Voices Carry • Score: 571

Third Place

Rampage • Score: 565 Competing Quartets: 12

First Place Midnight Society

Choruses First Place

Dundalk Chorus Jennifer Williams, Director Score: 621 • 42 on stage Songs: You Don't Bring Me Flowers (D. Wright); Oh! Look At Me Now (A. Dale)

Second Place First Place Dundalk Chorus

Greater Harrisburg Chorus Claire Domenick, Director Score: 606 • 35 on stage

Third Place

Jersey Sound Chorus Richard Lavene, Director Score: 566 • 42 on stage

Division A

Shades of Harmony Chorus Lori Ludlum, Director Score: 464 • 19 on stage Songs: Back in the Old Routine (R. Craig); Almost There (K. Bromert)

Division AA Division A Shades of Harmony Chorus

Dundalk Chorus Jennifer Williams, Director Score: 621 • 42 on stage Songs: You Don't Bring Me Flowers (D. Wright); Oh! Look At Me Now (A. Dale)

Most Improved Chorus

The Annapolis Blend Chorus Jennifer Harris, Director Score: 547 • 37 on stage Points Improved: 52

Competing Choruses: 19 Photo Attribution: JB Photographers Division AA Dundalk Chorus

56 | July 2025

Regional Results 2025 Region #21 Golden West

Quartets First Place

Second Place

Uproar • Score: 635 Rebecca Smith (t) Harborlites Chapter Amber Carroll (l) Harborlites Chapter Pamela Pieson (bt) Harborlites Chapter Catherine Berriz (bs) Harborlites Chapter Songs: Alice Blue Gown (B. Sellers); Don't Break The Heart That Loves You (G. Volk)

SoloVoce • Score: 610

Third Place

Reverb • Score: 592

Competing Quartets: 19

First Place Uproar

Choruses First Place

Harborlites Chorus Pam Pieson, Director Score: 727 • 64 on stage Songs: If I Ruled The World (C. Hine); The Trolley Song (D. Wright)

Second Place First Place Harborlites Chorus

San Diego Chorus Kathleen Hansen, Director Score: 659 • 64 on stage

Third Place

Enchanted Mesa Show Chorus Audrianna Aragon, Director Score: 619 • 41 on stage

Division A

Honolulu Blend Show Chorus Stephanie Brictson, Director Score: 531 • 22 on stage Songs: Come Dance With Me (L. Wright); Auld Lang Syne (C. Hine)

Division AA Division A Honolulu Blend Show Chorus

Enchanted Mesa Show Chorus Audrianna Aragon, Director Score: 619 • 41 on stage Songs: Don't Rain On My Parade (L. Wright); It's You (C.Conerty)

Most Improved Chorus Vista Hills Chorus Melanie Jewell, Director Score: 522 • 23 on stage Points Improved: 101

Competing Choruses: 9 Photo Attribution: Wyeth Lilley Photography Division AA Enchanted Mesa Show Chorus

July 2025 | 57

Regional Results 2025 Region #25 Heart of America

Quartets First Place

Serenade • Score: 680 Connie Light (t) Rich-Tone Chapter Caitlin Klemballa (l) Scottsdale Chapter Melanie Esquivias (bt) Scottsdale Chapter Lindsay Chartier (bs) Note-ably North Texas Chapter Songs: I'm Shooting High (P. McAlexander); If Ever I Would Leave You (C. Hine)

Second Place

Wildfire!• Score: 635

Third Place

Madison Avenue • Score: 597

Competing Quartets: (17)

First Place Serenade

Choruses First Place

Talk of Tulsa Show Chorus Frank Friedemann, Director Score: 640 • 47 on stage Songs: Oh! Look At Me Now (A. Dale); Somewhere Over The Rainbow (C. Hine)

Second Place First Place Talk of Tulsa Show Chorus

Wichita Chorus Melynnie Williams, Director Score: 587 • 24 on stage

Third Place

Top of the Rock Chorus Kelly Causey, Director Score: 568 • 44 on stage

Division A

Wichita Chorus Melynnie Williams, Director Score: 587 • 24 on stage Songs: A Dream Is A Wish Your Heart Makes (J. Minshall); The Moment I Saw Your Eyes (J. Liles)

Division AA Division A Wichita Chorus

Talk of Tulsa Show Chorus Frank Friedemann, Director Score: 640 • 47 on stage Songs: Oh! Look At Me Now (A. Dale); Somewhere Over The Rainbowm (C. Hine)

Most Improved Chorus

Sooner Sensations Show Chorus Dawn Krones, Joe Krones, Directors Score: 532 • 15 on stage Points Improved: 52

Competing Choruses: 13 Photo Attribution: John Peterson Division AA Talk of Tulsa Show Chorus

58 | July 2025

Regional Results 2025 Region #26 Canadian Maple Leaf

Quartets First Place

Airwaves • Score: 601 Jennifer Low (t) Westcoast Harmony Chapter Linda Dickinson (l) Westcoast Harmony Chapter Erin Bell (bt) Westcoast Harmony Chapter Patricia Fry (bs) Westcoast Harmony Chapter Songs: I Need To Be In Love (J. Minshall, E. Moriarty); Are You Having Any Fun? (K. Keller)

Second Place

Thumbs Up! • Score: 591

Third Place

Lumina • Score: 590

Competing Quartets: 14

First Place Airwaves

Choruses First Place

Westcoast Harmony Chorus Anne Downton, Director Score: 684 • 65 on stage Songs: Make Someone Happy (J. Minshall); Let Yourself Go (D. Wright)

Second Place First Place Westcoast Harmony Chorus

Rhythm of the Rockies Chorus Jo-Anne Killips, Director Score: 634 • 49 on stage

Third Place

Alberta Northern Lights Chorus Lisa Hunszinger, Director Score: 611 • 30 on stage

Division A

Peace Arch Chorus Bev Feick, Director Score: 523 • 21 on stage Songs: A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes (J. Minshall); Brand New Shoes (D. Metzger)

Division AA Division A Peace Arch Chorus

Rhythm of the Rockies Chorus Jo-Anne Killips, Director Score: 634 • 49 on stage Songs: All The Things You Are (J. Minshall); Zing! Went The Strings Of My Heart (J. Minshall)

Most Improved Chorus

White Sails A Cappella Chorus Ashley Thexton, Director Score: 448 • 16 on stage Points Improved: 41

Competing Choruses: 12 Photo Attribution: Milos Tosic Image Works Division AA Rhythm of the Rockies Chorus

July 2025 | 59

Regional Results 2025 Region #31 Quartet of Nations

Quartets First Place

Silhouette • Score: 602 Emma Beeden (t) Chapter-at-Large Region 31 Sophie Radcliffe (l) Aberdeen Chapter Emily Wyatt (bt) Lace City Chapter Emily Sturt (bs) Chapter-at-Large Region 31 Songs: I've Got A Feeling I'm Falling (L. Wright); When I Fall In Love (D. Wright)

Second Place

Vivacity • Score: 584

Third Place

Glow in the Dark • Score: 574

Competing Quartets: 21

First Place Silhouette

Choruses First Place

Viva Acappella Chorus Nicky Salt, Director Score: 680 • 49 on stage Songs: Can't Help Falling In Love (J. Arns); Fly Me To The Moon (K. Kitzmiller)

Second Place First Place Viva Acappella Chorus

Lace City Chorus Eleanor Blackeby, Director Score: 656 • 84 on stage

Third Place

Singing Unlimited Chorus Anita Zengerink, Director Score: 604 • 47 on stage

Division A

No Borders Show Chorus Stuart Sides, Director Score: 592 • 21 on stage Songs: Softly As I Leave You (B. Graham); The Night Has A Thousand Eyes (D. Wright)

Division AA Division A No Borders Show Chorus

Viva Acappella Chorus Nicky Salt, Director Score: 680 • 49 on stage Songs: Can't Help Falling In Love (J. Arns); Fly Me To The Moon (K. Kitzmiller)

Most Improved Chorus

Singing Unlimited Chorus Anita Zengerink, Director Score: 604 • 47 on stage Points Improved: 23

Competing Choruses: 7 Photo Attribution: Sarah Netherton Division AA Viva Acappella Chorus

60 | July 2025

Regional Results 2025 Region #32 Nordic Light

Quartets First Place

Maverick • Score: 662 Jeannie Ellis (t) Pearls of The Sound Chapter Anna Rosenberg Adlerstam (l) Pearls of The Sound Chapter Sofia Hagman (bt) Pearls of The Sound Chapter Susanna Balsvik (bs) Pearls of The Sound Chapter Songs: If You Love Me, Really Love Me (N. Bergman); Almost There (A. Dale)

Second Place

Smile • Score: 594

Third Place

Of Chords • Score: 576

Competing Quartets: 10

First Place Maverick

Choruses First Place

Rönninge Show Chorus Anna Alvring, Director Score: 708 • 93 on stage Songs: Rock It For Me (D. Wright); Someone Like You (D. Wright)

Second Place First Place Rönninge Show Chorus

Harmony Heights Chorus Mari Pettersson, Director Score: 620 • 43 on stage

Third Place

Snowflake Singers Chorus Kristina Lejon, Director Score: 615 • 46 on stage

Division A

Sunlight Chorus Veronica Johansson, Director Score: 519 • 25 on stage Songs: Bare Necessities (T. Gentry); What A Wonderful World (J. Giallombardo)

Division AA Division A Sunlight Chorus

Harmony Heights Chorus Mari Pettersson, Director Score: 620 • 43 on stage Songs: The Bandstand In Central Park, (N. Bergman); Taking A Chance On Love, (J. Giallombardo)

Competing Choruses: 13 Photo Attribution: Dick Gillberg, Barbro Jansson

Division AA Harmony Heights Chorus

July 2025 | 61

Regional Results 2025 Region #34 Southern Cross

Quartets First Place

Alouette • Score: 609 Diane Jenkins (t) Circular Keys Chapter Vicki Dwyer (l) Circular Keys Chapter Kaitlyn Dwyer (bt) Circular Keys Chapter Crystal Forbes (bs) Circular Keys Chapter Songs: If I Had My Way (D. Harrington); This Can’t Be Love (D. Wright)

Second Place

Treble Makers • Score: 575

Third Place

Butterscotch • Score: 564

Competing Quartets: 19

First Place Alouette

Choruses First Place

Perth Harmony Chorus Jennifer Squires, Director Score: 631 • 48 on stage Songs: Something's Gotta Give (P. McAlexander); Next Time I Love (L. Wright)

Second Place First Place Perth Harmony Chorus

Brindabella Chorus Glenda Lloyd, Director Score: 629 • 39 on stage

Third Place

Hobart Harmony Chorus Jenni Pyefinch, Director Score: 601 • 56 on stage

Division A

Geelong Harmony Chorus Michelle Roy, Director Score: 545 • 22 on stage Songs: Zing Went the Strings of My Heart (J. Minshall); All the Way (T. Gentry)

Division AA Division A Geelong Harmony Chorus

Perth Harmony Chorus Jennifer Squires, Director Score: 631 • 48 on stage Songs: Something's Gotta Give (P. McAlexander); Next Time I Love (L. Wright)

Most Improved Chorus

Murrumbidgee Magic Chorus Judith Ferguson, Director Score: 541 • 22 on stage Points Improved: 45

Competing Choruses: 17 Photo Attribution: Paul Redding Division AA Perth Harmony Chorus

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Regional Results 2025 Region #35 New Zealand

Quartets First Place

Unlimited • Score: 648 Kate Sinclair (t) Waikato Rivertones Chapter Jill Rodgers (l) Chapter-at-Large Region 35 Helena Lister (bt) Chapter-at-Large Region 35 Mehernaz Darukhanawalla (bs) Chapter-at-Large Region 35 Songs: A Nightingale Sang In Berkley Square (J. Bescos); Day In Day Out (R. Krigstrom)

Second Place

Renew! • Score: 587

Third Place

Top Shelf • Score: 566

Competing Quartets: 14

First Place Unlimited

Choruses First Place

Waikato Rivertones Chorus Kate Sinclair, Director Score: 641 • 32 on stage Songs: Someone Like You (S. Tramack); Don't Nobody Bring Me No Bad News (R. Harper)

Second Place First Place Waikato Rivertones Chorus

Faultline Chorus Carolyn Currington, Director Score: 626 • 40 on stage

Third Place

Greater Auckland Chorus Jocosa Bruce, Director Score: 607 • 35 on stage

Division A

Foveaux Harmony Chorus Sarah Rae, Director Score: 560 • 20 on stage Songs: All The Way (T. Gentry); A Wonderful Day Like Today (J. Minshall)

Division AA Division A Foveaux Harmony Chorus

Waikato Rivertones Chorus Kate Sinclair, Director Score: 641 • 32 on stage Songs: Someone Like You (S. Tramack); Don't Nobody Bring Me No Bad News (R. Harper)

Most Improved Chorus

Nelson Bays Harmony Chorus Alexandra Charlton, Director Score: 578 • 38 on stage Points Improved: 41

Competing Choruses: 9 Photo Attribution: C i Marketing Division AA Waikato Rivertones Chorus

July 2025 | 63

Regional Results 2025

2025 Wildcard Quartets

The Valkyries

Region #25

Wildfire! • Score: 635 Rachel Radcliff (t) Chapter-at-Large Region 25 Erin Goeke (l) Rich-Tone Chapter Jennifer Foster (bt) OK City Chapter Jen Le Claire (bs) Rich-Tone Chapter Songs: Oh! Look at Me Now (parody)(A. Dale); Young And Foolish (B. Graham)

Photo Attribution: John Peterson

Wildfire!

Saving Grace

Region #15

Illuminate • Score: 635 Rebecca King (t) Merrimack Valley Chapter Alicia Caron (l) Spirit of SyracuseChapter Jennifer Hunter (bt) Saratoga Soundtrack Chapter Cherie LaDuke (bs) Champlain Valley Chapter Songs: It's A Sin To Tell A Lie (D. Wright); Next Time I Love (L. Wright)

Photo Attribution: Lindsey Fish (Super Source Media Studios)

Illuminate

Five Minutes More

Region #11

By Special Request • Score: 623 Janet Schwartz (t) Harborlites Chapter Robin Beers (l) Chapter-at-Large Region 11 Billye Johnstone (bt) Chapter-at-Large Region 11 Cindy Chrispell (bs) Harborlites Chapter Songs: All the Way (T. Gentry); Taking a Chance on Love (J. Giallombardo)

Photo Attribution: Wyeth Lilley Photography

By Special Request

64 | July 2025

Wicked Blend

Regional Results 2025 Region #11

Region #13

Photo Attribution:

Photo Attribution:

The Valkyries • Score: 621 Grace Lueck (t) Chapter-at-Large Region 11 Emma Castillo (l) Chapter-at-Large Region 11 Kayla Quilantang (bt) Chapter-at-Large Region 11 Sarah Saavedra (bs) Chapter-at-Large Region 11 Songs: Someone Like You (D. Wright); Love Letters (J. Arns)

Rewind • Score: 612 Molly Mylius (t) Alaska Sound Celebration Chapter Amanda Boger (l) Alaska Sound Celebration Chapter Melanie Cross (bt) Alaska Sound Celebration Chapter Christy Hedrick (bs) Alaska Sound Celebration Chapter Songs: It's De-Lovely Medley (L. Wright); Next Time I Fall (L. Wright)

Wyeth Lilley Photography

InSpirit StudioZ Photography

Rewind

Region #10

Region #14

Photo Attribution:

Photo Attribution:

Probly Fine • Score: 611 Amy Reynolds (t) Song of Atlanta Chapter Lindsay Durden (l) Song of Atlanta Chapter Heather Brookshire (bt) Song of Atlanta Chapter Susan Milani (bs) Song of Atlanta Chapter Songs: Cry Me A River (B. Graham); Somebody Loves Me (C. Hine)

Saving Grace • Score: 619 Elise Zufall (t) Chapter-at-Large Region 12 Kelly Leary (l) Alamo Metro Chapter Kieley Morales (bt) Chapter-at-Large Region 10 Marisa Garza (bs) Alamo Metro Chapter Songs: All The Things You Are (J. Minshall); Accident Waiting to Happen (K. Snook)

Read Photography

Wyeth Lilley Photography

Probly Fine

Region #8

Region #21

Photo Attribution:

Photo Attribution:

SoloVoce • Score: 610 Kim Alley (t) A Cappella Joy Chapter Tracey Sandberg (l) Harborlites Chapter Jennifer French (bt) San Diego Chapter Marina Hayden (bs) San Diego Chapter Songs: O Look At Me Now (A. Dale); Love Walked In (A. Rossi)

Five Minutes More • Score: 618 Brigit Baglien (t) Chapter-at-Large Region 8 Heather Tavel (l) High Country Chapter Rebecca Richards (bt) High Country Chapter Heather Reimnitz (bs) Skyline Chapter Songs: Are You the One (A. Reimnitz); I Won't Tell a Soul (I Love You) (S. Alsbury, S. Carlson)

Wyeth Lilley Photography

Read Photography

SoloVoce

Region #14

Wicked Blend • Score: 614 Michaela Medford (t) Song of Atlanta Chapter Bettina McDougal (l) Virginia Coast Chapter Jamee Billings (bt) Queen Charlotte Chapter Lorrie Mauney (bs) Queen Charlotte Chapter Songs: What'll I Do (E. Waesche, R. Craig); Oh! Look At Me Now (A. Dale)

Photo Attribution: Read Photography

July 2025 | 65

Sweet Adelines International relies on the philanthropic giving of people like you. We are deeply grateful to our generous supporters who are part of The Overtone Society. Members of this distinguished group are helping to preserve a legacy of empowering singers through music that will change lives for generations.

Thank You!

To learn more, visit www.sweetadelines.com/give/the-overtone-society.

66 | July 2025

Virtual Memorial Wall

Honor the memory of a Sweet Adeline by having their name added to the new Sweet Adelines International Virtual Memorial Wall. Memorial donations help continue the legacy of our beloved members by providing funds for the events, education, and other programs that keep our organization thriving.

To find out how to give a memorial gift in the name of a Sweet Adeline, visit www.SweetAdelines.com/Give or email Becky Duncan, Assistant Director of Philanthropy at becky@sweetadelines.com.

In Memory • April-June 2025

Ellen Hartz River Blenders, #5

Mary Haynes Member-at-Large

Janie Fritz Grand Rapids, #17

Olga Thuman Clustered Spires, #19

Linda Rightor Columbus, #4

Lori Benton Sounds of the Valley, #12

Elaine Griffin Hutchinson, #25

Sally Eggleston Member-at-Large

Karla Kurzweil White River Sound, #4

Shirley Knapp Metro Mix, #5

Janice Kueppers Harborlites, #21

Christine Hinkley Verdugo Hills, #11

Phyllis Ray Kansas City, #5

Betty Ireland Dundalk, #19

Jane Perrin Velvet Hills, #8

Loretta Field Columbia River, #13

Karen Duehr Skyline, #8

Kathie Goulah Motor City Blend, #2

Mary Ryberg Zumbro Valley, #6

Deborah McCallum Upper Chesapeake, #19

Dot White Coastal Harmony, #9

Memorial Gifts Sweet Adelines honored with a Memorial Gift Lila Neilon The Blend

Mary Ryberg Zumbro Valley

Carrie Shaeffer Harmony Fusion

Sandra McCord Member-at-Large

Carol Rhine Chapter-at-Large

Gail Gibson The Woodlands Show

July 2025 | 67

Accolades Accolades as of June 2025

Carolyn Weger, A Cappella Joy Chapter, #13 Alana Regular, Durham Shores Chapter, #16 Catrina Tulowiecki, Metro Nashville Chapter, #4 Kim Nuttall, Milltown Sound Chapter, #31

Beginner Arranger

Advanced to Harmony 500 Director

Rebecca Petruccy, Dundalk Chapter, #19

Dawn Krones, Sooner Sensations Chapter, #25

Advanced to Approved Arranger

Joan Henderson, Skyline Harmony Chapter, #14

Richard Lavene, Jersey Sound Chapter, #19

Cathy McDonald, Hearts of Harmony Chapter, #26

Carol Kurtz, River Rhapsody Chapter, #6

Anja Johansson, Harmony Heights Chapter, #32

Megan Argall, Acappella Express Chapter, #6

Lori Scott, Northern Lights Chapter, #6

Kristi Penelton, Sacramento Valley Chapter, #12 Amy Fleming, High Desert Harmony Chapter, #12

Advanced to Approved Director Candace Dickens, Sound of Sunshine Chapter, #9 Pattee Bender, Grand Rapids Chapter, #17 Marjo Alers, Singing Unlimited Chapter, #31 Janese Blanchard, Song of the Pines Chapter, #21 Abby Twigger, Aberdeen Chapter, #31 Keturah Moller, Chapter-at-Large, #13

Advanced to Certified Director Ashley Hazen, Valley Forge Chapter, #19 Elizabeth Sinclair, Aberdeen Chapter, #31 Julie Sykes, Canadian Showtime Chapter, #16 Melanie Jewell, Vista Hills Chapter, #21 Grace Schweizer, Greater Cleveland Chapter, #17

Alana Regular, Durham Shores Chapter, #16 Leila Brown, Barrie Soundwaves Chapter, #16 Sara Johansson Selander,

Key Town Eskilstuna Chapter, #32

Colette Mayers, Grand Mesa Chapter, #8 Jenni Pyefinch, Hobart Harmony Chapter, #34 Jenifer Irvine, Vocalescence Chapter, #34 Alison Charlton, Wollongong Chapter, #34 Samantha White, Wollongong Chapter, #34 Nerryl Liston, Riverland Harmony Chapter, #34 Kylie Shanley, Northern Beaches Chapter, #34 Hannah Barton, Heartland Singers Chapter, #16 Alexandra Charlton, Nelson Bay Harmony Chapter, #35

Holli Houtz, Grand Rapids Chapter, #17

Advanced to Master Director

Heather Minett, Solent Sounds Chapter, #31

Renée Porzel, Melodeers Chapter, #3

Sharon Vaux, Solent Sounds Chapter, #31 Allison Lynskey, Potomac Harmony Chapter, #19 Sara Johansson Selander, Key Town Eskilstuna Chapter, #32 Suzanne Berresford, Greater Auckland Chapter, #35 Mary Chapman, Viva Acappella Chapter, #31 Heather Bentall, Christchurch City Chapter, #35 Nerryl Liston, Riverland Harmony Chapter, #34 Malauna Gibby, Capital City Sound Chapter, #13

68 | July 2025

Nicky Salt, Viva Acappella Chapter, #31 Anita Zengerink, Singing Unlimited Chapter, #31 Carol Smolenski, Merrimack Valley Chapter, #1 Sally Jeffery, Merrimack Valley Chapter, #1 Charlene O’Connor, Voices Northwest Chapter, #13 Julie Sykes, Canadian Showtime Chapter, #26

Get Ready to Groove! The Coronet Club Presents...

Friday, October 24, 2025 in Columbus, OH Featuring: The Coronet Club Chorus The Starlettes Our Special Guests - 3 ½ Men, 2024 BHS International Quartet Champions And Your Favorite Queen Quartets!

G e t Y o u r T i c k e t s N o w ! V i s i t w w w . c o r o n e t c l u b . o r69g July 2025 |

70 | July 2025