EC Wisconsin News

The community of Two Rivers, Wisconsin, is invited to attend "Harmony Lives On the Schmitt Brothers Stage," a family-friendly event scheduled for Saturday, July 20, 2024. The event will take place from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. in Two Rivers Central Park and will feature barbershop singers, food, and entertainment.

This location holds historical significance as it was here that the Schmitt Brothers quartet were celebrated by their hometown after winning the Society for the Preservation and Encouragement of Barber Shop Quartet Singing in America (SPEBSQSA) title in 1951. Organizers aim to make this an annual celebration of harmony in honor of Jim, Joe, Paul, and Fran Schmitt's contributions over their 35-year career. Notably, the Schmitt Brothers Stage is unique as it is dedicated solely to a barbershop quartet.

Performers at this year's event include quartets such as Harmony To Go, Barber Pops, Encore, Jukebox, Pass Da Buck, and the Clipper City Chordsmen chorus. Food options will be available through community partners. Grow It Forward will provide a stand offering burgers, brats, hot dogs, and beverages while the Washington House Museum will serve ice cream cones.

This initiative is supported by an Explore Two Rivers Opportunity Grant.

The Schmitt Brothers—Jim, Joe, Paul and Fran—originated from a large family near Central Park. Their journey began with a win on WOMT radio in Manitowoc when they were very young. They honed their skills singing in St. Luke’s church choir before claiming the SPEBSQSA title just 18 months into their barbershop career. The quartet enjoyed national fame performing on major stages including television shows like Ed Sullivan's.

For further details about this event or the Schmitt Brothers' legacy:

- Visit schmittbrothersquartet.com or schmittbrothersbooks.com

- Follow The Schmitt Brothers Quartet on Facebook

- Listen to The Schmitt Brothers Greatest Hits on Apple Music and Spotify

- Explore exhibits at Washington House Museum dedicated to them