ABOUT US
A LOVE OF HARMONY
Founded in 2003, and recognized as a Villages Lifestyle Organization, the Heart of Florida Barbershop Chorus is one of over 700 chapters of the Barbershop Harmony Society.
Barbershop is a uniquely American, close harmony, musical art form whose roots lie in African-American improvisation and European harmony traditions, but the love of this harmony is global.
Our outreach is working with others to promote the power of singing to build a better society. Because music is often the last link to memories for individuals with dementia, we sing, at no cost, for them. Because students are the best hope to increase interest in our unique harmony, we try to work with local high school music programs to teach them.
Our community involvement, in all of its many forms, has not gone unnoticed. Local media has kept the outreach efforts of the Heart of Florida Chorus in the news.
If you are interested in more information about our rehearsals, see our Join Us page.
OUR MUSICAL DIRECTOR - CHRIS BARTHAUER
Chris Barthauer is an accomplished musician and dedicated barbershop chorus director. With a passion for music that spans over two decades, Chris has made significant contributions to the world of barbershop harmony. As the musical director of the Heart of Florida Chorus, he is committed to fostering a supportive atmosphere that encourages the musical growth and enrichment of each member.
To learn more about Chris, as well as our Associate Musical Director and our Director Emeritus, click HERE.
HEART OF FLORIDA IS A FAMILY
After the Chorus took home the award for the Most Improved Chorus in Florida in March 2019, our president, David Bankard, welcomed the women who supported their efforts. His speech captures the essence of what it means to be part of the Heart of Florida family.
SUNSHINE DISTRICT SPRING 2019 CONVENTION
AWARD WINNER
All of our practices 2019 paid off! We were named the Most Improved Chorus in the state of Florida. We were ready for another win in 2020, but unfortunately, the pandemic caused the Sunshine District to cancel their Conference the day we were heading to Orlando. in 2019
CREATING A BETTER WORLD
There is a joy and transformation that comes from four voices singing together. We embrace the mysterious alchemy of singing together and want to share it, because we think it’s too wonderful for us to keep to ourselves. We have the capability, resources, and unity of purpose to share with everyone.
Listen to Marty Monson, the CEO of the Barbershop Harmony Society, explain why we believe we can create a better world through signing.