More4Fun VLQ (A Very Large Quartet)

More For Fun - Weathersfield CT

“More4Fun”

Very Large Quartet (VLQ)
Starting in 1999 a quartet of fellows in the Silk City Chorus, calling themselves “Just4Fun,” practiced just once a month and did only two (free) gigs a year, one at Hartford Hospital during the Christmas holidays, and one during the summer at one of the member’s churches. When that group broke up in 2004, Carl “Doc” Braren had the idea of forming an ensemble, which in barbershop parlance is called a “VLQ” (Very Large Quartet). Thus was born, in early 2005, “More4Fun.” This group was set up to continue singing "4 Fun" but have enough singers in each part to honor all accepted gigs despite illness or scheduling conflicts. The Silk City Chorus (SCC), through its Music Committee, has approved "M4F" unequivocally to represent the Chorus when small group performances are requested, and they plan to have a quartet, “Just4Fun,” available as well.
What is unusual about this group is that it functions as a democracy, with everyone having a say about how to sound better. There's a lot of friendly banter during rehearsals, which were moved up to at least twice a month in order to develop more of a repertoire.
Present members are:

Leads- Jim Aldridge, Carl Braren (manager), George LaPrad and Arne Kittelsen asses- Chuck Duarte, Fred Hughes, Frank Lehninger, and Al Shufelt (Director)
Tenors- Ted Paul, “Bunker Hill,” and Gary Sandman (Coach)
Baritones- Dick Cichowski and (“Bunker” Hill/Al Shufelt)

We have performed in various venues over the years. The highlight of our year occurs when we sing for patients throughout Hartford Hospital, the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center and the Institute of Living during the Christmas holiday season. In 2007 “More4Fun” was honored to be asked to sing in the Chorus' Annual Show and Afterglow and in 2008 we represented the Silk City Chorus on 9/11 at the Veterans Tribute in Cheney Hall, Manchester.
“More4Fun” also seeks its own gigs for birthdays, anniversaries and other special events; also, for school, church or other organization events; and at retirement homes, assisted living and skilled nursing facilities. Some of these are done gratis for volunteer groups or when it contributes to the good of the community

TO HIRE US FOR YOUR EVENT: Contact Chorus Chairman Don Dickey Don Dickey or Contact:

Carl H. "Doc" Braren, M.D. for more information
Manager, "More4Fun" barbershop ensemble
Silk City Barbershop Chorus, Manchester
tel. (860) 563-9026 cell: (860) 748-6526
email: cbraren@pobox.com