News from our 50 years of singing and helping establish the Ladies Association of British Barbershop

By Emma Lelliott, MD

As the Barberettes begin their 50^th birthday year, we thought it would be fun to share how it al began together with pictures (costumes definitely of their time!).

It all started in 1975 with just 4 ladies – wives of male barbershoppers – singing in 4 part harmony together. Before long they doubled in number and the Barberettes were born!

In February 1976, together with 5 other ladies choruses, the Barberettes founded the Ladies Association of British Barbershop Singers and in 1976 they joined the Men’s Association at their annual Convention to compete in a Ladies category.




 

In this first ever British Ladies competition, under the direction of Pete Powell, 17 members of the Barberettes came 2nd – they was robbed!!!!!!

The Chorus went from strength to strength and in 1977 we took GOLD with 28 ladies on the risers.








As a result of the win, we were asked to appear on Nationwide (the forerunner of South Today) and The Generation Game with Larry Grayson.
















 

1985

10 years on at the LABBS Convention in York. A chorus of 49 members. Liverpool ladies came 1^st, Avon Belles came 2^nd and yes the Barberettes were 3^rd overall but we won the presentation trophy. Amazing what you can do with red sandals and red socks!!



 

A bit more recent!

If you’re thinking you’d like to join us, please know that outfits have definitely improved and are far more modern!






Look out for more Barberettes 50^th birthday chat next month.