Chorus of DuPage to deliver Singing Valentines

Quartets bring roses and romance – conveying ‘I love you’ in a song

The foursomes of experienced barbershop singers have been surprising, delighting and serenading sweethearts – both women and men – across the western suburbs with Singing Valentines, announced the Chorus of DuPage.

The Singing Valentines barbershop quartets are back for Valentine’s Day to surprise and serenade sweethearts on Feb. 14 across DuPage County and beyond.

For more than a decade, the foursomes of experienced barbershop singers from the Chorus of DuPage have been delighting valentines across the western suburbs with their personality and unique vocal style, according to a news release. By special request, they can arrange to dispatch quartets across the region and to downtown Chicago.

From Lisle 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 style of four-part, a capella harmony in tunes such as “Love Me Tender,” “Let Me Call You Sweetheart” and “I Love You Truly,” according to the release.

They deliver a long-stemmed rose and love songs to recipients. Sometimes, special song requests can be arranged if planned in advance.

Most often, the tuxedo-clad singers visit offices, schools, homes, senior care centers, malls and restaurants, where they surprise unsuspecting valentines with their talent and showmanship. They can be part of wedding proposals or romantic valentine dinners or drop in at a luncheon gathering or senior center.

“We are on the go from morning to night on Valentine’s Day,” John Morrison of Downers Grove, a longtime barbershop singer from the Chorus of DuPage, said in the release.

“And it’s as fun for us as the people we meet,” he said. “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.”

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.

To schedule a quartet, visit www.ChorusofDuPage.com/valentines. For information, call 331-444-2740.

The Chorus of DuPage is one of about 700 Barbershop Harmony chapters across North America. Founded more than 50 years ago, the 50-person chorus meets at 7 p.m. Tuesdays at Villa St. Benedict, 1920 Maple Ave., Lisle. Visitors are welcome, and the group plans several guest nights during the year.

Renee Tomell

Renee Tomell

Covering the arts and entertainment scene in northern Illinois, with a focus on the Fox River Valley.