Chorus History

Alberta Gold Show Chorus has a wonderful history. We've come a long way in 25 years.

In 1982, Marjorie Hopkin's love of barbershop music prompted her to find a way to renew her connection to the art form, neglected but not forgotten. Although there was an existing chorus in Calgary, Marjorie decided to start a new one in north Calgary. She advertised for a director and the call was answered by Don Clarke, a barbershopper with patience, diplomacy and the desire to fulfil the motto of SPEBSQSA. With Marjorie's encouragement to friends and co-workers, a small group of women began meeting at a Public school in northeast Calgary. They were soon hooked on the barbershop sound. Alberta Gold Chorus was conceived. 

In those beginning months, the excitement of a new hobby, the laughter, and the wonder of unaccompanied voices creating chords kept the ladies coming back for more. The ladies went door-to-door with flyers, and the chorus grew.  The work continued.. and by 1984, the chorus had a consistent attendance of 20 members and chartering was in sight.

In June of 2009, we celebrated those 25 years.  We organised a  party and invited past members, director's, coaches, quartets, and friends of Alberta Gold to join us. What a wonderful time we had renewing old friendships, revisiting memories, and for some of us making new friends while sharing laughter and song.