Hear Four-Part Harmony Come Alive at the Arlingtones Barbershop Chorus

The Arlingtones Barbershop Chorus is a non-profit a cappella group dedicated to preserving and performing barbershop music in Arlington and the surrounding area — founded in 1957, with a well-known tradition of providing clean, wholesome, quality entertainment. What makes the Arlingtones particularly special in the regional choral landscape is both their longevity and their genuine openness: the group was the first chapter in the Mid-Atlantic District to incorporate female voices, and the chapter is sponsored in part by Arlington County through the Cultural Affairs Division and the Arlington Commission for the Arts. They perform across the county at everything from the Arlington County Fair to Metro stations during the holidays, bringing an art form that dates back to the late 19th century into thoroughly contemporary settings with humor and warmth.

The Arlingtones’ annual programs include holiday concerts, singing valentines, free guest lessons, and holiday cheer at Metro stations, as well as an original barbershop fall production each October — complete with guest performers and an after-glow party. The 2025 fall show at Marymount University’s Ballston Center featured a theatrical “Caroline Sandiego”-themed adventure with performances by the award-winning Pratt Street Power quartet, followed by a free ice cream social. Singing valentines — in-person delivery packages including two love songs, a red rose, and chocolates — have become a beloved annual tradition for gifting across Arlington. Rehearsals are held every Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Gunston Middle School, Room 145, 2700 S. Lang Street, with no audition required and walk-ins welcome. Performance calendar and singing valentine bookings at arlingtones.org.