2025 IC&C FAQs

2025 IC&C FAQs
Looking for information on a particular topic? Simply click the topic in the list below for quick access to available information on that topic.

HOTEL/VENUE
TRANSPORTATION
HERSHEY AREA
AEP
SATURDAY DINNER
CONVENTION ACTIVITIES
CONTEST
AWARDS
HARMONY MALL
BIG SCREEN ADS

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HOTEL/VENUE
How do I book a hotel room?
The booking website will go live on July 15th.
The convention rate will be offered from October 31 to November 12, allowing you to extend your stay and explore all the fun activities in Hershey.

Single and Double Rooms available.
Room Rate  =   $179 + 11% tax ($198.69) USD
Complimentary amenities include:
• Wi-Fi in guest rooms
• iPod docks
• Mini fridges
• Complimentary self-parking
• Use of the fitness center
• Tickets to the Hersheypark Story Museum and Gardens 
The reservation deadline is September 17, 2025.
• Reservations must be accompanied by a valid major credit card. Please be sure to have your credit card number, billing address and names of your roommates with you when you make your reservation.   
• The hotel has a 48-hour cancellation policy. Cancel 48 hours prior to 4pm day of arrival to avoid 1-night charge plus applicable tax. 
• Either a valid credit or debit, card will be used at check-in. Please note that a hold will be placed on the card for the full amount of the stay, plus $50 a day for incidentals for the entire stay.
• Guest check-in is at 4:00 PM; check-out time is 11:00 AM.
• The hotel is an accessible facility with ADA compliant rooms available upon request.  Accessible tubs, roll-in showers, short stature kits and TTY audio sensors are also available.
What is the fair share assessment fee?
To help cover the costs of IC&C expenses and meet our contractual obligations, all members of
Harmony, Inc. attending the convention are required to stay at the convention hotel or pay the Fair Share Assessment Fee of $198 (the equivalent of one night’s stay at the hotel - including taxes).
 
Are there restaurants available onsite?
There are six on-property restaurants and bars.  Click here for the complete list.  During the contest on Thursday and Friday we will also offer food sales outside of the contest area. 

I have mobility issues – will it be difficult for me to get around?
The Hershey Lodge is an accessible facility with ADA-COMPLIANT ROOMS available upon request. All activities in the hotel and convention center are ADA accessible.

Need mobility assistance during IC&C? Booking information for scooters will be available soon.

Can I bring a service animal?
Yes, service animals are allowed at the hotel. But please email Allison at ICCManager@harmonyinc.org so that appropriate accommodations can be made. Please put ICC Service Animal Accommodation Request in the subject line.
What is the smoking policy at The Hershey Lodge?
The Hershey Lodge is a non-smoking property. A $250.00 smoking fee will be added to any guests found in violation of our no smoking policy.   
Is there a lost and found at the hotel?
Please see the front desk for any lost and found items.
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TRANSPORTATION
What is the best airport to fly in to?
The closest airport is the Harrisburg International Airport (MDT), located in Middletown, which is about 12 minute drive to Hershey. If you are driving, click here for directions to the hotel.

Are there any transportation services?
The hotel does not offer an airport shuttle, but the property is easily accessible by rideshares, taxis, Uber and Lyft.  For limo and bus services, click here.
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HERSHEY AREA
What is the weather like in Hershey?
In November, temperatures in Hershey average between 34 – 52 degrees F | 1 – 11 C. You can get the most current forecast along with monthly temperature averages by clicking here.
Is there anything to do around the hotel?
Hershey is the perfect place for sweet family fun. Harrisburg is the capital city that shines with arts, culture, and cuisine. It's one town, one city, and everything in between that makes our destination unique and gives everyone something to enjoy. 
 
For more information click here.
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AEP
How do I register for IC&C?
You will be notified once registration is open.

Please note; you will use one form to purchase AEPs, dinners, printed programs, and any single tickets for contest or the Parade of Champions.

We ask that all choruses register their members at the same time vs having members register individually. This ensures you will be seated together at dinner.

While there is no cut-off for purchasing an AEP, we ask that you follow the below guidelines; especially for groups:

  • Early bird pricing for AEPs ends at midnight, August 31st. The price for All AEPs (including youth) will increase by $10.00 on September 1, 2025.
  • The deadline to purchase dinner tickets is midnight, September 30th. We request that you purchase your dinner ticket at the same time as your AEP but understand that plans may change and so you can add a dinner ticket up until this date.
  • Online AEP sales will close at midnight on October 31st. You may still purchase AEPs and tickets on-site after
    this date.
What is the cost to attend IC&C?
All prices are listed in U.S. Dollars. Payment is due in U.S. Dollars or the Canadian Equivalent. To convert to CAD, go to U.S. to Canadian Dollar Converter. Prices below are the Early bird pricing. On September 1st, all prices will increase by $10:
  • Adult Performing Member AEP = $195
  • Adult Non-Performing Member AEP = $148
  • Adult Non-Member AEP = $158
  • Youth Performing Member AEP = $148 (this cost is being covered by the Steve Hagerdon Bright Future Fund)
  • Youth Non-performing Member AEP = $112 (this cost is being covered by the Steve Hagerdon Bright Future Fund)
  • Youth Non-Member AEP = $112
  • Single Event Tickets = $35
  • Single Event Youth Ticket = $20 (13-25 Years of Age)
  • Single Event Child Ticket = $0 (0-12 Years of Age)

Payment may be made by bank transfer (preferred method), PayPal, or check/money order. All prices are in US funds but may be paid in Canadian equivalent with exchange calculated on the day of payment.

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SATURDAY DINNER
What is the Saturday Dinner?
Participation in the Saturday dinner helps us to lower the price of our AEPs – and it’s a lot of fun! The cost for this year’s dinner is $55.00. Vegan and gluten free options will be available. There is an option to indicate dietary restrictions on the form but please note we cannot guarantee that we can accommodate all dietary restrictions – we will reach out to you if there is an issue. –   This year's menu is:
Soup of the Day
Created Fresh Daily

Mixed Greens Salad Bar
Seasonal Toppings: Grape Tomatoes, Shaved Onions, Cucumbers, Carrots, Parmesan Cheese, Focaccia Croutons House Made Dressings, Olive Oil and Red Wine Vinegar

Marinated Bean Salad
Bread and Butter Vinaigrette

Quick Braised Beef Bistro Steak
Pan Sauce and Creamy Horseradish

Rosemary Garlic Chicken Breast
Smokey Tomato Gravy

Buttermilk Whipped Potatoes

Seasonal Vegetable Medley

Hershey Lodge Assorted Desserts to Include Peanut Butter Pie
Please note: there will be no dinner ticket sales on-site. You must pre-purchase your seat. If you purchase a seat, then determine you can no longer attend the dinner, it is your responsibility to sell your ticket to someone else. You can post the information on Facebook via HarmonyChat or the bulletin board in the Hospitality Suite at ICC. Remember, the person buying your ticket is also buying your seat assignment and dinner, we will not re-assign seats after they have been posted, nor are we able to change the type of dinner ordered (i.e., vegetarian/special meal).

Self-serve AEP/Ticket transfers (Link will be active after September 15th) – Available after AEPs go on sale.
Members may use this service to post AEPs, tickets, and reserved dinners they no longer need. Buyers search the list of available tickets and contact the seller to arrange payment and transfer the tickets. If you are not a member or have trouble logging into the Harmony, Inc. website to use this transfer service, please contact the Corporate Office for assistance.

How are seats assigned for dinner?  
After the September 30 deadline, we will randomly draw chorus assignments for the Saturday dinner. Each chorus will get a select number of seats based on their dinner orders. Each diner will be assigned a specific seat at the dinner. We will notify choruses of their table and seat numbers. Individual or small group orders will be placed at extra seats where available. We will post the table assignments in IC&C mobile app and on our IC&C website, but it is up to the individual members to remember what their table/seat assignment is.

Can I bring a guest?
Yes, family and friends are invited and encouraged to attend IC&C. The cost to attend contest is $35 for adults, $20 for youth (per contest). They are also invited to attend dinner for the $55 fee. All guest tickets can be pre-ordered on the AEP form. Unless dinners are registered for guests to their name, on the chorus registration, we cannot ensure guests will sit with their hosts.

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CONVENTION ACTIVITES

What happens at the Opening Celebration?
Join us for a night of music, joy, and chocolate-infused harmony. Kick off our International Convention and Contests with a celebration as rich as a barbershop chord and as sweet as a Hershey's Kiss. We'll honor incredible members, sing together, welcome special musical guests, and blend our voices in true Harmony, Inc. style - all set against the deliciously delightful backdrop of Hershey, PA.

What is the Parade of Champions?
One of the highlights of IC&C, the Association of Harmony Queens will entertain you with their annual Parade of Champions show. You’ll get to hear many of our past Quartet Champions sing some of your favorite songs as well as the 2024 champion chorus – Northern Blend Chorus. Please note the cost to attend this event is included in your AEP.  If you do not have an AEP, tickets can be purchased during registration, or at the door for $35. 

What is the Saturday Showcase?
All members and guests are invited to the annual showcase event. It’s a great way to close out ICC as we recognize and hear from our top medalists. Anyone attending the dinner will have assigned seating to ensure they get the best seats.  For all others seating will be on a first come, first served basis. 

What is the International Chorus?
One of the best parts about IC&C is getting to meet so many people from so many places who share your love of singing. This is exemplified in our International Chorus – comprised of our associate members and select members of each chorus that come together to learn a song and perform on the IC&C stage after the Chorus Contest on Friday. An email will be sent to all associates and choruses about participating in the International Chorus. We encourage you to sign up for this incredible experience. You will be sent the music ahead of time and there will be a rehearsal on Thursday morning.

What are education classes?
Want to be a better singer? Need help getting your chapter off the ground?  IC&C is more than just contests and singing. We are fortunate that our talented members and panel volunteer time to help us all become Harmony. Stronger. Be sure to take advantage of this opportunity during IC&C. Classes will be offered on Thursday and Saturday mornings. Once the classes are finalized, they will be posted on the IC&C page of our website and mobile app.
 
What is the Minor Chords?
Minor Chords is a chorus made up of Harmony’s youth members, those aged 25 and under. They meet at IC&C to rehearse their latest piece that they will perform after the Chorus Finals. Every year a new director is chosen to provide an unforgettable experience for these talented young singers. 

What is the IC&C mobile app?
Everything you need to know about this year’s IC&C will be at your fingertips using the mobile app! You can see the full agenda and chat with other attendees all from your mobile device. Instructions on how to download and use the app will be sent out prior to IC&C.

Will I be able to volunteer at IC&C?
There are many jobs available on our signup – we encourage everyone to look and see what appeals to them. Friends and family members are welcome to sign up as well. Visit our website for an example of some volunteer opportunities. Sign up link TBD.

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CONTEST

CONTEST INFORMATION
The official contest rules can be found in section 11 of the Corporate Manual (you will need your members only password to access it).

What paperwork is needed for chorus and quartets?
IC&C Contest Information Forms, Contest Entry submission, and the required Contest Entry Fee ($40 Quartet / $65 Chorus) made payable to Harmony, Inc. (US Dollars or Canadian Equivalent) must be submitted no later than 15 days following your respective Area's AC&C.  Immediately following each Area contest, qualifiers will receive an email containing links and instructions. Entries submitted after the contest entry deadline will be required to sing first in the contest. NO entries will be accepted after September 1.
In addition, all contestants must submit a song registration form including a copy of the page that shows the correct title and copyright information for any arrangement to be performed at least one month prior to contest (October 5, 2025).  Failure to return the composer and publisher information, or if the information given is found to be incorrect, following adequate research by the ICJ Committee, the contestant may be disqualified.
HAR-059 Official International Chorus Contest Information Form
HAR-060 Official International Quartet Contest Information Form
HAR-082 Contestant Song Registration Form  

Will there be a curtain on the stage?
No, there is not a curtain on the stage.  

Will there be a ramp up to the stage?
Yes, there will be an ADA compliant ramp on one side of the stage for safe, easy access and exit.

How is the order of appearance determined?
A live drawing for the order of appearance will take place in September. Information on how to watch the live drawing will be sent to all membership closer to the actual date and time. After the drawing, the order of appearance will be added to the IC&C webpage.

How do I find out when I am onstage and the pattern schedule?
The International Contest and Judging Chair (ICJC) will send the contest pattern and related information to each contestant after the order of appearance is published and prior to contest.

Who is on the panel?
We will have one panel judging all of the contests. This year’s panel includes: 
 
ADM MUS PER SNG
Chris Buechler (PC)     Steve Armstrong Marty Lovick Jay Butterfield
Alan Lamson John Burri Gary Steinkamp Alan Gordon
   Adam Scott Theresa Weatherbee Steve Scott

Where can I get contest scores after contest?
The contestant contact listed in the Contest Entry will receive the scores via email as soon as the results are known.  Scores will also be posted online shortly after each contest as well as posted in the mobile app.

My chorus wants to rehearse before we compete.  Will there be rooms available?
All choruses will have an opportunity to schedule rehearsal time on Thursday and Friday. Friday’s time will be pre-assigned based on the order of appearance, and you will be notified of that time via email. If you are interested in signing up for a time on Thursday, click here to sign up. Additional questions or concerns, email the Awards / Services Manager at ICCServicesMgr@harmonyinc.org.   

How are contestants scored?
There are three judging categories in the Harmony Inc. contest. For more information on judging and scoring refer to the Contest and Judging Program sections.  
  • Musicality 
  • Musicality judges consider the degree to which performances demonstrate musicality in the barbershop style, assessing the musicianship demonstrated in bringing the song and arrangement to life.
  • Major elements in the category are harmonic integrity, execution, delivery, thematic development, and embellishment. 
  • Performance
  • Performance judges evaluate the degree to which a performance creates an entertaining experience or effect on the audience. Every aspect of the performance impacts the judge’s impression or perception. Terms such as believability, creativity, authenticity, and other descriptors are used to characterize the performance and are appropriate for use in the barbershop style.
  • Major elements in the category are believability, communication, creativity, quality of sound, artistry, rapport, and stylistic adherence.
  • Singing
  • Singing judges evaluate the degree to which the performer achieves artistic singing in the barbershop style. 
  • Major elements in the category are intonation; vocal quality; unity of word sounds, flow, diction and synchronization; artistry.

Will I get to practice on the stage before contest?
Due to the size of our contests, and time constraints, we are not able to allow all choruses and quartets time to practice on the actual stage. We are able to offer a brief stage “viewing” which will allow up to five people from a chorus and quartets to walk onto the stage. Please note, there is no singing allowed during this time. Times for the stage viewing will be included in the IC&C schedule, as well as your contestant packets.

Can I bring personal belongings with me backstage before I compete?
We encourage all contestants to not bring your personal belongings with you in the pattern, as they will not be allowed backstage. If you must bring something, please make it small, consolidate chorus belongings etc. We will provide a table in a hallway that will be monitored by volunteers. You can drop your belongings on the table before going on stage and pick them up after you compete.  

Will there be Mixed Barbershop Harmony Association groups on stage at IC&C?
Yes.  Mixed Barbershop Harmony Association (MBHA) ensembles may participate in an Area contest, and those who achieve a qualifying score are invited to sing at IC&C.   These ensembles are included in the draw for order of appearance, but they compete only against other MBHA ensembles.    If a top-scoring MBHA ensemble achieves a score that would put it among the top ten finalists in our contest, that quartet will not sing in the finals, but will be invited to sing on the Showcase.

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AWARDS
My Chorus/Quartet received an award at the last IC&C.  Where and when shall we return it?
If your chorus or quartet is in possession of one of the following awards, it will need to be returned at IC&C in Hershey, PA. Awards must be returned in their travel cases or bags, be in good condition and be engraved if this is required.

Return the Award to the hospitality room as soon as you arrive. Awards are required to be returned no later than Thursday November 6th. If your chorus or quartet is not attending IC&C this year, it is still the responsibility of the award holder to make the necessary arrangements to return the award as required.  

CHORUS AWARDS
  • The Jerry Dunlop Award
  • The G. Ruth Giels Award
  • The L.A.B.B.S Trophy
  • The MacIntosh Award
  • The Tait Trophy
  • Jeanne O’Conner Championship Chorus Award
QUARTET AWARDS
  • The Accord Award
  • The Findlay Plaque
  • The Susan C. Trenchard Award (formerly Image of Harmony Award)
  • The Audience Entertainment Award
  • Young at Heart Award
  • Harmony Future Award
     

GENERAL AWARDS
Sandi White International Membership Award
(to be returned prior to the Opening Ceremony, Wed. Nov. 5th)
If you have questions, please contact the Awards / Services Manager at ICCServicesMgr@harmonyinc.org


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HARMONY MALL
Is there an opportunity for my quartet or chorus to raise money?
Yes. You can raise money by selling items at IC&C in the Harmony Mall. We've got a deal for you! Harmony, Inc will provide one table and two chairs to members at no cost. If you require a bigger space; you may purchase additional booth space:

You can find additional information and reserve your space here today.

Do you know someone with a business who would be interested in having a booth at the Harmony Mall?
Vendors who are not members of Harmony, Inc. can purchase booth space at IC&C at the following rates:

3-4 tables: two chairs = $300.00

2 tables; two chairs = $250.00

1 table; two chairs = $150.00

Prices are listed in US Dollars. The rental fee is non-refundable.

Harmony Inc. will be back in Hershey in 2028. If vendors sign up and pay for a two-year commitment now (2025 & 2028), they will receive a 20% discount.

The non-member form is available here: Vendor Contract

If you have questions about securing any booth space, please contact our Convention Business Services Assistant at ICCBusinessAsst@harmonyinc.org.

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BIG SCREEN ADS
How can I send support to my favorite chorus, quartet, coach and more?
You can show support for your favorite chorus, quartet, coach and more with a Big Screen ad! Go here for more information and to purchase: IC&C Big Screen Ads.

• Deadline is October 1st.
Cost:
• Harmony, Inc. member, quartet, or chapter = $35 per slide
• Non-Harmony, Inc. barbershop member = $100 per slide
• Not affiliated with any barbershop organization (outside provider) = $150 per slide

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