The Quartet Society of Gordon Central High School recently presented an educational program for the Harris Arts Center as part of the Smithsonian Institute display on “American Harmonies.”

The group of students consisted of male members of Gordon Central Spirit, a youth barbershop society team of present GC students and alumni. Also presenting on the program was a newly formed women’s Sweet Adeline group.

Within each group are functioning quartet groups that also sang on the program. All groups are under the direction of Kim Watters, director of choral activities at Gordon Central.

Joe Forsee, the former National Barbershop member and local resident who has been helping the Gordon Central male team over the last year, led the presentation.

“Joe has been an important part of our promotion of the art of barbershop singing. His knowledge and depth of experience has been a value to training my young singers. The boys love their time with Coach Joe. He approached me in the fall about Gordon Central providing the singing demonstration for the program. We were excited to be included,” said Watters.

Barbershop singing is truly one of the few solely American music forms so it was a necessity for the Smithsonian tour.

The Smithsonian display will only be at the Harris Arts Center until late May. According to the boys and girls who sing at Gordon Central – Barbershop is here to stay.