In small and large groups, they often compete at local, national or even international levels. Part of the resurgence is social. Singing with people who share a love of this music provides a strong camaraderie. I don't know people my age who do that. People in my community go to bed early, and I'm here late singing.
Barbershop harmony is a cappella, which means there is no instrumental accompaniment.
The singing is in four-part harmony. The lead singer is responsible for conveying the interpretation, emotion and inflections of the song. The other three singers, who do the harmonizing, follow the lead in tempo and support the lead's inflection, artistry and finesse. The tenor is the highest of the four parts and is sung above the melody. By lore, baritones are the butts of barbershop humor.