Audiences were treated to an unforgettable afternoon of music and harmony yesterday during Forged in Gold: A Legacy of Harmony, a showcase featuring some of the most celebrated names in barbershop and a cappella performance.
Hosted by the acclaimed Masters of Harmony, the concert highlighted the rich tradition of close-harmony vocal performance with a program that blended Broadway favorites, contemporary classics, humor, and emotional storytelling through song.
Under the direction of Alan Gordon, the Masters of Harmony opened the performance with selections including Something’s Coming, Hallelujah, I Just Love Her So, and a lively rendition of Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat. The ensemble’s precision, stage presence, and vocal strength immediately energized the crowd.
The afternoon also featured a special performance by The Newfangled Four, International Bronze Medalists known for combining sharp harmonies with comedy and entertainment.
Following intermission, the legendary quartet Michigan Jake took the stage before audiences were treated to a moving performance by The Westminster Chorus under the direction of Dr. Dan Wessler. Their set included memorable performances of Blackbird, Bridge Over Troubled Water, and Sloop John B, drawing enthusiastic applause throughout the theater.
The concert concluded with a stirring finale performance of Simple Gifts, bringing the combined performers together in a celebration of musical excellence and community connection.
Founded in 1985, the Masters of Harmony have become internationally recognized for their championship-level barbershop performances and commitment to preserving the art of four-part a cappella harmony. The ensemble continues to entertain audiences across Southern California and beyond with programs that bridge generations through music.
For many in attendance, the concert was more than entertainment — it was a reminder of the enduring power of live performance and the shared experience of music performed at the highest level.
