Masters of Harmony

### Masters of Harmony - Chapter History The Masters of Harmony is a distinguished barbershop chorus that originated in the mid-1980s when a group of barbershoppers from the Pasadena Chapter sought to establish a new chapter with a focus on musical and performance excellence. Officially chartered in October 1985 as the Foothill Cities Chapter, the group chose the name Masters of Harmony for their chorus, setting a high standard for their future endeavors. Under the direction of Joe D'Amore, the Masters of Harmony quickly demonstrated their potential by winning the Far Western District Small Chorus Contest in March 1986. Despite initial challenges in membership growth, the chorus's fortunes changed with the arrival of Dr. Greg Lyne, a renowned director from Illinois, who took the helm in the summer of 1987. The chorus relocated to a more central rehearsal location in Santa Fe Springs, and by December of that year, their ranks had swelled to 79 men. The Masters of Harmony's rise to prominence was meteoric. They captured their first Far Western District chorus contest in October 1988 and secured a fourth-place bronze medal at their first International competition in Kansas City in July 1989. The following year, the chorus clinched the International chorus championship in San Francisco, marking the beginning of a legacy of excellence. Throughout the 1990s, the Masters of Harmony continued to excel, winning multiple International championships under the leadership of Dr. Lyne and his successor, Jeff Oxley. Their achievements included memorable performances, such as singing with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and participating in international events like the Guinness Roaring 1920's Festival in Ireland. In the early 2000s, the chorus, now under the direction of Mark Hale, maintained its winning streak with several more International victories. Justin Miller succeeded Hale in 2012, continuing the tradition of musical excellence. The chorus faced stiff competition from the Vocal Majority but remained a dominant force in the barbershop community, securing their ninth Gold medal in 2017. The Masters of Harmony have also been dedicated to musical outreach, particularly through the Young Men's Harmony Festival, which has introduced high school students to barbershop singing since 2001. The chorus's commitment to the arts extends beyond competition, as they have performed at significant events such as the 75th Anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attack and the A Cappella International Festival in Russia. Despite challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and changes in rehearsal venues, the Masters of Harmony have persevered, adapting to new circumstances and continuing to pursue musical excellence. With a rich history and a bright future ahead, the Masters of Harmony remain a beacon of barbershop harmony and a testament to the enduring power of choral music.