The RAG Barbershop Quartets have been going for some years now and have serenaded many a happy couple. Past notable targets (presumably not due to love) have included the Rector and various lecturers.
In the last two years, under the able organisation of Tom Elliott, the quartets have flourished so that they now rehearse even outside the run up to RAG Week. This reporter went along to one of their rehearsals to get a sneak preview.
This year there are two Barbershop Quartets consisting of Dan Young and Robert Felstead (tenor), Tom Elliott and Michael Tourville (lead), Duncan Richmond and Ewan Crosbie (baritone) and Seb Junemann, Andrew Daly and John Collins (bass). They are singing a selection of songs including “I Love You Truly” and “Love Me Tender”. This reporter was particularly impressed by their musicality and excellent close harmony.
Speaking as a recipient of a Barbershop Quartet last year, this reporter can confirm that it is a horribly embarrassing experience, but also one of the nicest things a boyfriend (or unacknowledged admirer) can do - at least in front of your entire year in a lecture theatre!
To book a Barbershop Quartet to serenade your loved one go to http://www.union.ic.ac.uk/rag/valentines/ or contact tom.elliott@imperial.ac.uk. A serenade costs £10 and includes a rose that is presented to your loved one. They are available for booking on Monday the 14th February but also other days by arrangement.
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