In October of 1996, Howard Cranford felt like singing in the D.C. Singing Capital Chorus’ novice quartet contest. As a veteran barbershopper, highly regarded tenor in the Society and a busy performer in the Federal City Four quartet, Howard clearly did not need another singing opportunity. But with his signature brand of gentle, single-minded charm, he approached his hand-picked voice parts: lead Allen Snyder, bari Gene Keener and bass Don Spero.

After a rehearsal or two with the contest approaching, Howard selected a name for the quartet, the Keener Chords, which the esteemed bari disavowed as his idea. The foursome won the contest and enjoyed singing together too much to stop, continuing until 2002 when the DC Chapter and many others were saddened by Howard’s death.

Jeff Helion stepped in to contribute his singing and performance sparkle to the quartet, which continued a regular schedule of appearances. Particularly noteworthy was the group’s 2002 rendition of The King Medley featuring four Elvis songs. In 2004 Jeff, an avid and daring surfer, returned to his life hunting big waves to ride in Australia and other exotic points south.

Fortunately for the Keener Chords, Steve Spriggs had recently joined the chapter and was soon recruited as the quartet’s new tenor. The foursome continues to enjoy performing with the Singing Capital Chorus and at quartet venues. They have performed at the National Pageant of Peace (National Christmas Tree Lighting) on the Mall, at the Smithsonian Institution for a ceremony accepting a museum exhibit concerning the first barber pole, at the Montgomery County Fair, and numerous other venues around the area.

For more information, please contact Allen Snyder, 301-365-1146 or allen.snyder@verizon.net.