Russ Erwin
Without Russ and his efforts as one of the two cofounders of the New Bernchapter of our barbershop society we would not be here tonight. Since 1990 when he and his cofounder formed the Southern Gentlemen Chorus, Russ has served as a leader and as either conductor or assistant conductor for the chorus. He can be counted on to conduct when the chorus has a singing engagement and he is always encouraging and expresses gratitude to those who come to perform.
Russ is the only active member remaining from the original sixteen charter members. He is a retired Marine. For eleven of his active duty years he played the trumpet in the Marine Corps Band. He has been Barbershopper for thirty two years and has attended the Society's school for directors.
We are fortunate and thank Russ for sharing his spirit and dedication throughout our history.