RENO, Nev. - Cheers rang out in the Capri Ballroom of the Peppermill Resort in Reno, Nevada during the board meeting of the Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS) at its Midwinter convention when they accepted the newly formed Mixed Barbershop Harmony Association (MBHA) as its newest affiliate.  

The MBHA gives men and women an organization devoted to supporting and enhancing the experience of singing barbershop harmony together.  The BHS (a men's singing organization), and its sister organizations Sweet Adelines International (SAI) and Harmony, Incorporated (HI) were built on the close harmony tradition of four part, single-gender singing in the style popular at the turn of the Twentieth century.

"This is a great day for mixed harmony ensembles in North America", said MBHA President and CEO Ron Morden.  "We now have a better opportunity to share the joy of mixed-voice singing to men and women in Canada and the United States.  There is more mixed harmony happening out there than we know, and it's time for them to have an organization that supports their efforts and promotes this style."

The MBHA will be working with the BHS to offer contest opportunities and to serve as the qualifying body for North American entrants to the biennial World Mixed Harmony convention and contest hosted by Barbershop in Germany (BinG!).

The MBHA will be seeking similar support from other choral organizations, building on the popularity of a cappella singing and personal vocal expression through song in mixed harmony ensembles.

Contact:
Ron Morden
7059 Andrews Terrace
Panora, IA 50216
901-300-6242 (MBHA)