Upstate
South Carolina's
Barbershop
Harmony
Chapter
Mission Statement
To educate and enrich people’s lives in the Upstate by providing them with musical programs and charitable outreach that exhibit the barbershop harmony style. To continually improve in vocal quality, performance and personal fulfillment in a cappella singing, and to introduce singing as a life-long avocation to youth and communities.
Vision Statement
To be recognized in the Upstate communities and in the Barbershop Harmony Society as one of the premier choruses in the Carolinas District. We will grow our singing membership in numbers and quality and create opportunities to present a cappella music experiences to youth and diverse audiences.
The Palmetto Statesmen is the Upstate South Carolina Chapter of the BARBERSHOP HARMONY SOCIETY or, historically, the Society for the Preservation and Encouragement of Barbershop Quartet Singing in America, with the acronym SPEBSQSA. The chapter has a long history; it's the oldest chapter in South Carolina. It participates in the District of the Society called the Carolinas District. The Carolinas District supports barbershop chapters and quartets in the Southeastern states of North Carolina and South Carolina.
The Palmetto Statesmen sing songs of many different varieties in the Barbershop style. Within the chorus are several Barbershop Quartets. See the "Quartets" page for more information on the individual quartets. The Palmetto Statesmen is composed of men from all walks of life and all ages. If you would like to become a member, please visit us for a rehearsal!
Our director, John Ryan will help you to sing your best. Regardless of your skill level, you will improve your skills under his leadership.
The Chapter meets every Monday night from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm at the Duncan United Methodist Church at 139 West Main St in Duncan, SC (SC Rt. 290). It is best to call first as we may be performing away from our regular meeting site. Come sing with us and take part in the exciting time of singing together. This training not only benefits the member and the Chapter, but also other singing organizations, such as local church choirs, gospel quartets, and choruses.
This site provides the chapter's Calendar of practices, as well as Events, along with pages of links to important and interesting information, both for those with an interest in barbershop and for members.
Come join us, you'll find out why "It's Great to be a Barbershopper!"
If you have any questions, contact us at:
Rusty Kirkpatrick (Secretary) - (864) 279-3872
Larry A. Gilhousen (President) - (864) 757-1932
The Palmetto Statesmen is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. We serve the Upstate Area of South Carolina. Our members come from all walks of life, and all men are encouraged to stop by any Monday night to listen to us practice and sing with us.
