Above / Talented, tuxedoed barbershop quartets will serenade sweethearts and deliver roses and romance on Feb. 14.
The hugely popular Singing Valentines barbershop quartets are back for Valentine’s Day to surprise and serenade sweethearts on February 14.
For more than a decade, the foursomes of experienced barbershop singers from the Chorus of DuPage have been delighting valentines across the western suburbs of Chicago with their personality and unique vocal style.
From Naperville to Hinsdale, Oak Brook to Wheaton, Downers Grove to Carol Stream, the singing gentlemen always bring smiles — and maybe a tear or two – as they deliver their four-part, a Capella harmony style in tunes such as Love Me Tender, Let Me Call You Sweetheart, and I Love You Truly.
They also deliver a long-stemmed rose with a sweet Valentine’s card to lucky recipients. Sometimes, special song requests can be arranged, if planned enough in advance.
By special request, they can arrange to dispatch quartets to the Loop or downtown Chicago as well as Naperville.
Most often, the singers visit offices, schools, homes, senior care centers, malls and restaurants. They’re known to surprise unsuspecting valentines in their tuxedos as well as with their talent and showmanship.
They can be part of wedding proposals, romantic valentine dinners, or drop in on a luncheon gathering or senior center.
“We are on the go from morning to night on Valentine’s Day,” explained John Morrison, a long-time barbershop singer from the Chorus of DuPage and resident of Downers Grove.
“And it’s as fun for us as the people we meet,” he added. “The element of surprise and uniqueness of a serenade is fun and meaningful for the recipient, as well as their co-workers, family, or friends who become part of the event.”
Valentine’s Day memory ignites a chuckle
With a chuckle, Morrison recalls one delivery made several years ago.
The quartet had performed in an Elmhurst tavern on Feb. 14. A husband, who had forgotten to get a gift for his spouse, asked the group if they would stop in down the street at the Elmhurst police station to serenade her, where she was on duty at the front desk.
“We not only delighted his wife,” noted John, “but most of the Elmhurst police force as well. Turns out they knew her husband, and also where he was probably hanging out that day!”
Best to reserve two weeks in advance
To get prime times, early registration is advised. Performances start at $50 and increase to $75 or $100 for a time-specific delivery or one that requires additional travel. Reservations are taken up to and including Valentine’s Day —for those last-minute buyers. But for prime time deliveries, make your reservation a week or two in advance, said Morrison.
To reserve a quartet, call 331.444.2740, or visit the Chorus of DuPage website: www.ChorusofDuPage.com/valentines.
Chorus of DuPage meets at 7:15PM Tuesdays
The Chorus of DuPage is one of approximately 700 Barbershop Harmony chapters across North America. Founded over 50 years ago, the 50-person Chorus of DuPage meets at 7:15PM Tuesday evenings at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, 815 S. Washington Street in Naperville or the Judd Kendall VFW Post at 908 W. Jackson Avenue, also in Naperville. Visitors attend most every week.
Guest Night set to begin at 7:15PM Tues., Jan. 30
The group has also planned one of its periodic Guest Nights at is regular rehearsal at 7:15PM on Tues., Jan. 30. Singers of any age or experience levels are cordially invited to drop in to observe or sing along the informal and high energy rehearsals.
Release and photo courtesy of Bill Murschel for Chorus of DuPage.
