Fascinating Rhythm is proud to be a member of LABBS - the Ladies Association of British Barbershop Singers. LABBS was established in 1976 and now has approximately 1,800 members in 48 Choruses.

What is Barbershop?
Barbershop harmony is four-part, unaccompanied close-harmony singing. The lead usually sings the melody. The tenor harmonizes above the lead, the bass harmonizes below and the baritone sings notes in between to make chords that give barbershop its characteristic ‘full’ sound.

Probably the most distinctive feature of barbershop harmony is the phenomenon known as ‘expanded sound.’ It is created when the harmonics reinforce each other to produce audible overtones or undertones. Barbershoppers call this "ringing a chord" and is pretty much guaranteed to give both the singers and the audience goosebumps!

Presentation is also a key element in Barbershop singing. Barbershoppers are known to sing from the heart, using both musical and visual methods to convey the message of a song and engage with the audience.

Convention
LABBS Annual Convention is the highlight of the Barbershop year with great shows, competitions, and ‘afterglows’, where everyone gets to sing whether on stage, in the bar or back at the hotel. Fascinating Rhythm regularly competes in this event and was delighted to win the Novice Chorus Award in 2001. 

In 2009 we held a dress rehearsal for our friends and families to come to prior to competing in Cheltenham at the annual LABBS competition where we placed 12th. Look out for us next year in Llandudno!

Go to our photo gallery to see more photos

In 2007 two of our chorus members, Jo and Ali, competed in the quartet finals at Convention in Bournemouth as part of the quartet ‘Havoc’. They  gave a stunning performance to win GOLD and become the LABBS Quartet Champions.