Quartet hits jolly note at bookstore

CANTON — The Adirondack Harmony Company Barbershop Quartet brought some holiday cheer Sunday afternoon to shoppers at St. Lawrence University's Brewer Bookstore.

With about 14 jazzy versions of holiday classics such as "Jingle All the Way," the group entertained shoppers for about two hours.

Although the attendance was low, most shoppers listened and applauded while browsing the bookshelves.

"It's very nice. It puts everybody in the holiday mood," said Jennifer L. Maine, a store clerk. "It's pleasant to have something other than your traditional Bing Crosby on the stereo."

For the quartet — which includes tenor Ronald C. Prutzman, lead singer Lansing R. Laraway, bass Stanton B. Smith Jr. and baritone John E. Hamilton — the free concert was one of many this holiday season.

Although the group sings year-round at birthdays, anniversaries, weddings and other events, the holiday season is usually its busiest time of year. The group has planned several shows in Canada and will compete in the 2010 Midwinter Convention in Tampa, Fla., at the end of January.

While Mr. Smith said singing in the quartet is just a hobby, not everyone agreed.

"Now, it's become a part-time job," Mr. Hamilton joked.

"That's because we practice twice a week for the quartet," Mr. Smith said.

The Adirondack Harmony Company Barbershop Quartet was founded in 1971, but the current incarnation has been singing together for about four years. Mr. Laraway is the only original member.

At the bookstore, the live music is a yearly accompaniment to the holiday decorations.

"From Thanksgiving until Christmas, we have as much music as we can get on the weekends," said Melinda M. Goss, assistant manager for the store. "It's for the pleasure of our customers."

Although the turnout was low, Mrs. Goss could not comment on whether the music had an effect on the holiday sales.

"We're been holding our own this year," she said.

Brewer Bookstore will have more holiday music events starting at 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 20.