Tim Waurick
Hi again, folks!
The object for our interview this time is no other than Tim Waurick, maybe known to most barbershoppers as tenor of the World Champion Quartet Vocal Spectrum, but also as the man behind a lot of superbly sung and crafted a cappella learning tracks, that you can find out there on the web today. Check out his repertoire here. His versatility as a singer is absolutely incredible! And now to our questions…
1. How was it that you came in contact with Barbershop music?
I started singing barbershop music in Middle School. My teacher had two sons who sang barbershop music so she decided to start a barbershop chorus. My mom encouraged me to join, which I did, having no idea what the style was. I had no idea how much it would change my life. I started as a tenor and have never stopped!
2. What do you find so special about singing barbershop?
Barbershop music is addictive. The lock and ring that barbershop music offers is so unique and unfamiliar to those who haven’t experienced it. The comradery within this organization is a big reason that I’m part of this hobby. The music brings you in and the friendships keep you here.
3. How has barbershop music affected your everyday life?
WOW. I could write a book with this one. Simply put, it has completely changed my life. I have no idea what my life would be without barbershop. First of all, it has been a great social network. I’ve met all of my very best life long friends through this hobby. Starting in middle school and continuing through the years. Barbershop has also given me a great sense of confidence. The encouragement that goes on within this organization is awesome. In addition to my full time job of recording learning tracks, barbershop has provided me with a chance to travel all over the world. I’ve been to so many wonderful places and met so many great people as a result of this hobby. Not one day goes by that I don’t think of barbershop.
4. What does it take to become a good barbershop singer?
It takes a lot of love for the barbershop style, the desire to be a great singer in and out of barbershop. It takes a strong work ethic and a desire to be great at what you do. If God has given you the talent, then it’s your choice to be great.
5. What methods have you found particularly useful in enhancing the quality of your singing?
I found that taking a kinesthetic approach has really helped me to become a better singer. Additionally, I highly recommend voice lessons. One should sing every day if they truly want to improve as a singer. I also record myself on a regular basis and am always listening for ways that I can improve.
6. Is there any special advice or things that you would like to point out when recording barbershop music?
Take your time with recording. Don’t ever settle for something less than your best. Heart will always come through on a recording. You’ll want to give your listeners something interesting to listen to, so really work hard to incorporate feeling into your recordings.
7. Can you recall any special outstanding moment or situation in your barbershop career?
Probably my favorite barbershop moment was winning the International Competition in 2006 with my quartet, Vocal Spectrum. Winning the International Chorus Contest with the Ambassadors Of Harmony in 2009 was an amazing experience. The hard work that the chorus had put in, coupled with the love that we felt from the entire audience made this an amazing moment. Being voted the ”fantasy” tenor in the Westminster contest was a huge honor for me. Getting the opportunity to share the stage with my barbershop heroes, Joe Connelly, Tony DeRosa and Jeff Oxley was a thrill. There are so many more moments that have nothing to do with winning contests, but I don’t want to write a book. I will say that it’s a thrill when I see someone getting hooked on barbershop. It’s cool to watch someone’s reaction when they hear that lock and ring.
8. What is your favourite barbershop arrangement(s)?
My favorite barbershop arrangement is David Wright’s arrangement of ”South Rampart Street Parade.” I don’t know if there is a better example of great arranging in the barbershop style. I also love David Wright’s arrangement of ”They Didn’t Believe Me.”
9. How do you think that barbershop singing will evolve from where we are today?
Yes, I think that all things evolve. I don’t believe that we’ll stray too far from where we are now, but of course the style and arrangements will slowly evolve over time.
10. What would you like to convey to newcomers of this musical style?
Barbershop music is so much fun to sing. You’ll love what you get from the musical side of barbershop, and your life will be changed by the friendships and experiences you’ll get to have as a result of this awesome hobby!
Thanks for asking me to be interviewed!
Take care,
Tim Waurick
