You show up at a bar or music venue. You grab a drink and within minutes you’re singing the hell out of your favorite rock song with a hundred other folks and - wait for it - a live band of nationally known musicians. In three-part harmony, no less!
Wait, what just happened?
Welcome to the Low Bar Chorale and what we all not-so-secretly wish singing could be.
We’re drop-in only: no auditions, rehearsals or commitments ever. We sing rock, alt-indie and pop music like Bowie, Lady Gaga, Yacht Rock, or Michael Kiwanuka. We’ve got an incredible band, and we’ve performed with some amazing acts - Built To Spill, Portugal. The Man, Storm Large, and others.
The best thing is that ANYONE CAN DO THIS. No prior musical experience required. Just show up with your love of music and an open mind, and we guarantee you’ll sound great.
So if this sounds like something you’d love, what are you waiting for?
HOW IT WORKS
We choose 2 or more songs and post them ahead of time. We practice harmonies for each song, and then perform for ourselves…and maybe for a video camera. Tickets are $10 advance/$15 door and events are generally 21+.
ABOUT THE SONGS
Song choices are usually posted a few days in advance on our FB/Insta. Lyrics are projected above the stage - we’ve gone paperless!
Songs focus more on the new, from artists like the Fleet Foxes, Sia and First Aid Kit, as well as much-loved pop tune classics from artists like Tears for Fears, David Bowie, etc. Keep this in mind when suggesting songs!
FAQ
When do you meet and where? +
The Low Bar Chorale meets in Show Bar at Revolution Hall, 1300 SE Stark St., in Portland. We also have special events all over Portland and the Pacific Northwest - check our "Events" section for venues, dates, and times.
Do you have to know how to sing? +
We welcome ALL voices - ALL skill and confidence levels. Please know that you are invited and celebrated!
Do you have to know how to read music? +
No, we learn by ear. Song lyrics are projected above the band, or in some cases, printed out.
What if I’ve never been in a chorus before? +
Have you been in a bar before, or can you be in a bar? You’re in!
What kinds of songs do you sing? +
We sing a range of pop, rock and alt indie songs from the mid-seventies to today. We look for songs with great harmonies, and the occasional anthemic fist-pumping power ballad.
How do you choose the songs? +
There are tons of great songs out there, but not every song works for a group. Ben has an uncanny superpower of choosing ones that do.
WHAT IS A SHOW LIKE? WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT? +
It’s generally a relaxed concert-like setting. Tickets are taken at the door. Feel free to grab a drink or food (for most locations), and find a spot where you can see the stage. We usually project lyrics behind the band, or (occasionally) we’ll hand out lyric sheets. The band size varies. Ben teaches harmonies and backing vocals for chosen songs. At any given show, you might hear tunes you know and love, or you might be learning a song that is new to you.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF SHOWS YOU DO? +
Regular Low Bar Chorale Shows: We’ll sing 3 to 4 songs, and we’ll learn parts for at least 1 or 2 of those songs. This is the format for delving into the material and focusing on harmonies. Sometimes we call these "Acoustic Nights" - we go completely acoustic to really let the voices shine!
Singalong Shows: We’ll sing 10 to ∞ songs. This is a big, fun, rock-out singalong show! Think singing along at a big rock concert - that's the vibe. These shows often include special musical guests, storytellers, comedians, and whoever else Ben decides to throw into the mix.
Harmony Singalong Shows: We’ll sing 5 to 10 songs. This format is a hybrid of the other two shows. Ben will teach parts for some songs, and then we’ll sing along to the rest of them. The best of both worlds!
I play an instrument. Can I play in the band? +
The Low Bar Chorale Band is a rotating collective of the top professional musicians in Portland. All of our players regularly tour, record, and perform with world-class acts (see our "Meet the Band" section). If you fall into this category and are interested in auditioning, please send a resume and audio/video recordings of your playing to lowbarchorale@gmail.com.
How do I start a chorale in my community? +
Send a note to lowbarchorale@gmail.com. Ben has a dream of singing in bars everywhere. Give him a shout. He’ll be happy to tell you how he did it.
Will you come play in my town? +
We love a road trip! Contact Ben at lowbarchorale@gmail.com
How do I hire you to play at my event? +
Send a note to lowbarchorale@gmail.com. To date, The Low Bar Band has played to over 15,000 people for the Mississippi Street Fair, Pioneer Square’s “Singin’ in the Square,” Stoller Family Estate, The Lot at Zidell Yards, and other venues across the Pacific Northwest.
