I recently came across an old interview with US astronaut Ron Garan, who spent 178 days aboard the International Space Station in 2011. He spoke about the well-documented and transformative “overview effect” that reshaped his understanding of humanity and our shared responsibility for Earth. And – like so many stories that catch my attention – it immediately made me think of barbershop. Yes, really!

From 250 miles above Earth, Garan watched storms and auroras “crawling and rippling” across continents.  He saw our atmosphere as a fragile, paper‑thin halo - our only protection. What struck him wasn’t just the beauty; it was the truth that everything on Earth is connected. Pollution has no nationality. Climate systems ignore borders. From space, the planet looks like a single, shared spacecraft, with billions of us relying on the same life‑support system. And yet, as Garan observed, many people behave like passengers rather than caretakers, assuming someone else will keep things running.

His message wasn’t abstract. It was practical. If humanity continues to treat Earth as an unlimited resource rather than a shared system, the consequences will reach everyone. Seeing Earth from space didn’t make him feel small; it made him feel accountable. When you truly understand that we’re all riding the same fragile “spacecraft” through the universe, the idea of “us versus them” dissolves into a single truth: there is only us.

In Harmony, Inc., we experience our own version of that revelation every time we gather. We may not orbit the planet, but we do navigate the very real complexities that remind us how divided the world can feel: border crossings that require patience and paperwork, exchange rates that stretch budgets, travel logistics that test our creativity, and - perhaps most delicate of all - political forces beyond our control.

And yet we choose to come together. We choose to cross those lines, literal and figurative, because the harmony on the other side is worth it.

When we finally stand together, the view changes. The challenges melt into the sound of voices locking chords. In that moment, we experience our own overview effect - the divisions that felt so large on the ground dissolve into shared purpose. Harmony becomes our reminder that we are not passengers; we are caretakers of one another, of our community, of the fragile systems (both musical and human) that sustain us.

Ron Garan reminds us that there is only us. Harmony proves it every time we sing together.

Step 1: Complete HAR-061 (Quartet) or HAR-063 (Chorus) to verify contestant information and pay contest entry fees according to the deadlines below.   With submission and payment of these forms, you are entered into the contest.

Step 2: Enter your ensemble details in the Contest Entry system.  Step 2 is being released on a staggered schedule based on your Area Convention & Contest date. 

Step 3: Submit your Song Registration form(s) for any songs you intend to perform in the contest thirty (30) days prior to the contest.

If you have issues completing the Contest Entry, DO NOT CONTACT the BHS Member Center. Instead, complete a support ticket request.  You will be contacted by Administrative Judge Category Specialist, Linda Muise, to resolve any issues.  

SEEKING 

Convention Awards and Services Manager 

Harmony, Inc. is seeking a detail-driven, highly organized leader to serve as Convention Awards and Services Manager for our International Convention & Contest (IC&C). This esteemed role sits at the center of our most meaningful traditions, overseeing international awards, supporting contest execution, and working closely with the Convention Manager and Convention Team to ensure a seamless, world-class event experience.

This is a rare behind-the-scenes opportunity for someone who thrives on precision, collaboration, and live event energy. From coordinating medals, trophies, presenters, and rehearsal spaces to supporting contest sessions backstage, the impact of this role is felt at every major IC&C moment. It’s more than a volunteer position—it’s a trusted, high-profile role and a thrill to be part of the team that makes the magic happen.

Please reach out to ICCManager@harmonyinc.org if you would like more information or to apply.
 

Business Services Coordinator

Want a front-row, behind-the-scenes role at Harmony, Inc.’s International Convention & Contest? Reporting directly to the Convention Manager, this role requires limited commitment throughout the year, with an exciting, hands-on presence onsite at ICC, where you’ll help keep the wheels turning by coordinating vendors, managing Harmony Mall participation, and overseeing cash collection and deposits.

For more information about this exciting opportunity, reach out to Allison Thompson at ICCManager@harmonyinc.org.

Lead Facilitator & General Facilitators

This is a great opportunity to add to your facilitation skills, connect with passionate individuals, and contribute to positive change within our organization. Check out the Program Coordinator and General Facilitator job descriptions to learn more. 

Interested? Contact Kelly Peterson, Executive Director, to learn more about becoming part of this inspiring team!
 

Short-Term Project-Based Opportunities 

We know many of our members would love to volunteer but are not sure they can make a long-term commitment. The Marketing & Communications (MarCom) team has short-term, project-based tasks that may be just what you’re looking for.  Project-based work provides an opportunity to make meaningful contributions and support the organization we love.  The MarCom team is helping internal stakeholders build resources and tools to enhance communications and support both our IBOD and members. 

• HI Photo Storage – Are you knowledgeable with Flickr or similar photo storage management solution?  We’re looking for an individual with expertise in photo storage solutions to determine usability for a storage platform.  We’d like to include cataloging (subject albums) and tagging so we can easily access images by word.

If this opportunity tickles your interest, please reach out to Executive Director Kelly Peterson, ED@harmonyinc.org, to learn more or apply.