New Orleans Quartet Sustains Barbershop Harmony Since 1999
Southern Tradition continues a local tradition of four-part singing that predates the city’s jazz fame.
By Jacob Reynolds ·
The vocal group Southern Tradition performed four-part harmony near Canal Street in Mid City, New Orleans. The quartet has maintained its active schedule since 1999, relying on weekly rehearsals to refine their sound.
The four members hold distinct professional careers outside of music. Karl Hansen serves as a doctor and sings bass. Hansen Eschette works as a medical technician and handles the tenor line. Joe Jacquat is a civil engineer who sings baritone. Johnnie Oufnac, the only member who works as a barber, takes the lead vocal part.
Hansen stated that long-term familiarity allows the members to anticipate each other's musical movements. He noted that the primary requirement for joining a barbershop quartet is the ability to continue singing without embarrassment.
Zachary Matherne, an award-winning singer who performs with the group NOLA Vox, described New Orleans as the center of basic American music. He pointed out that Louis Armstrong performed in a vocal quartet before he began his career playing the horn. Matherne’s larger vocal group also spawned The Dreamers, a coed barbershop quartet.
Local singers view the inclusion of women in these groups as a positive development. Matt Ridley, a member of the scene, said that women provide necessary high notes. He added that while some men can hit high notes, the female voices are more appealing to the ear. Sarah Todd, another singer, described the experience of competing against other groups as enjoyable.
The singers perform for camaraderie rather than financial gain, although the city has hosted large international competitions. Matherne noted that the most recent major international barbershop event in New Orleans took place in 1992 at the Superdome.
Southern Tradition and similar local groups meet every few weeks to practice. Ridley described the moment when all members have learned their parts and the harmonies align as a beautiful outcome. The tradition continues in a city where music remains a central part of daily life.
Source: WWSB
