People
At Misty River Music Makers, it all starts with people.
Friendship, a love of singing, and supporting our local community are at the heart of who we are. For over 40 years, Misty River has been part of the Fox Valley, bringing women together through music, laughter, and shared purpose.
Our members come from many walks of life, but we’re united by a love of harmony and a welcoming, supportive environment where every woman belongs.
Music
So, what makes barbershop unique?
Barbershop music is traditionally sung in four distinct voice parts—Tenor, Lead, Baritone, and Bass. Its signature sound comes from close harmonies and ringing chords that create a rich, exciting musical experience you can truly feel.
- The Lead sings the melody
- The Tenor adds the high harmonies
- The Bass anchors the sound with the low harmonies
- The Baritone weaves above and below the melody, completing the chord
Together, these four parts create the unmistakable joy and energy of barbershop harmony—music that’s fun to sing and thrilling to hear.
Mission
Our mission is simple and meaningful:
To promote friendship and fun while creating a welcoming space for women to sing together on a regular basis.
We support the personal growth of our members, both vocally and as performers, while contributing to and strengthening the broader barbershop community. Through music, we build confidence, connection, and joy—both in our performances and in everyday life.
If the above sounds like something you are interested in, please drop us a line at sing@mistyrivermusicmakers.org
Testimonials
Here’s what a few chorus members from Misty say about being part of our organization:
RO S.
“Being a part of a group of women that loves singing as much as I do is a wonderful experience. The women of Misty River are fun to be with as well as serious about their music. We sing together, play together and celebrate together, as well as support each other. Our rehearsals are fun, and we work hard to be able to offer our best to those we perform for. To see the faces of our audience and hear their applause is a joy.
The music we perform is a mix of barbershop and other forms of music. Since barbershop singing is the only true American art form, I feel that it’s important for us to pass this music form on to others.”
BETH P.
“I have been singing all my life but when I was introduced to the barbershop style of harmony in 1990, I was hooked. At Misty, we strive to have a good time and present our audience with a production that is quality and entertaining. It also helps that I have met many singing sisters who have become my good friends for many years.”
JENNIFER O.
“I love singing with Misty! Not only have I learned about an American art form, singing four-part a cappella harmony in the barbershop style, but I’ve gained so many new friendships in the process!
I’ve also grown in confidence as a singer. There was a time where I desperately wanted to sing but only felt comfortable singing in the shower or the car. Now singing in a chorus and even branching off into a quartet has allowed me to tackle my performance anxiety. Routine practice and understanding how to harmonize has helped me keep the nervous butterflies in check. I’ll even accompany my husband in his band from time to time. Thank you, Misty River, for providing a safe space to learn and grow!”