Mission, Vision, and Values

The Society aspires to preserve for its members and for all future generations of prospective members, the sacred right of all people to seek haven from the burden of their daily cares through indulgence in old-fashioned vocal quartet harmony, and to that end we do hereby solemnly pledge ourselves to abide by the precepts of the Code of Ethics.

1. We shall endeavor to perpetuate the Barbershop Harmony Society and the barbershop style of singing.
2. We shall deport ourselves and conduct the Barbershop Harmony Society’s functions in such manner as to reflect credit upon the Barbershop Harmony Society and its membership.
3. We shall conform to the bylaws of the Barbershop Harmony Society and any other rules set forth by its Board of Directors.
4. We shall accept for membership only congenial persons of good character who love barbershop harmony or have a desire to harmonize.
5. We shall exhibit a spirit of good fellowship toward all members and strive to resolve any conflicts with civility and respect.
6. We shall refrain from forcing our songs upon unsympathetic ears.
7. We shall refrain from taking improper advantage of our membership and BHS fellowship for personal gain.
8. We shall not permit political, religious, or other controversial issues to hinder or inhibit the enjoyment of barbershop harmony.
9. We shall, through our service to the Barbershop Harmony Society, endeavor to spread the spirit of barbershop harmony throughout the world.

Inclusion

BHS members welcome all singers and potential singers into our community and create environments for them to thrive regardless of their circumstances or abilities.

Service

BHS members regularly give our time, talent, and treasure to support the organization and ensure it thrives in perpetuity.

Humanity

BHS members assume positive intent, treat others with integrity and respect, and embrace opportunities to learn and improve.

1. We change lives through close harmony singing.

2. We embrace opportunities to grow as musicians and as people.

3. We go out of our way to welcome others.

4. We treat each other with dignity.

5. We celebrate shared successes.

6. We foster, encourage, and enable others’ growth.

7. We encourage all to contribute in meaningful and impactful ways.

8. We respect and acknowledge our differences.

9. We create an environment where everyone can participate and be empowered to succeed.

10. We elevate one another musically and personally.

The Barbershop Harmony Society does not condone harassing or threatening behavior toward any individual.

As noted in the BHS Code of Ethics, “We shall exhibit a spirit of good fellowship toward all members and strive to resolve any conflicts with civility and respect.”

Whether communicating in a BHS channel, in a public or private social media setting, or by sending messages directly, people should always treat each other with dignity, while acknowledging their differences.

BHS cannot — and should not—monitor every private communication or intervene in every setting. While BHS cannot control non-members' actions, BHS members have agreed and should exhibit qualities that adhere to our core values and statements of affirmation.

Person-to-person social media forums are subject to moderation by their owners and by providers’ terms of service. We encourage all forums to create and support harmony in a healthy and productive manner.

Harassing or threatening behavior may also be subject to legal or criminal action depending on jurisdiction. Please notify local authorities immediately if you ever feel threatened or unsafe.

• To perpetuate the old American institution: the barbershop quartet and barbershop harmony
• To promote appreciation of barbershop harmony
• To initiate and maintain a broad program of musical education, contests, and appreciation in support of barbershop harmony and the allied arts
• To establish and maintain foundations that support our vision
• To initiate, promote and participate in charitable projects that support our vision