The Sound of Illinois Has a Voice in Oak Forest
Jim Bicek blends his voice into the award-winning Barbershop Harmony Society.
While Christmas carols are the rage this time of year, one Oak Forest resident would prefer Les Miserables. One of 71 voices in the award-winning Sound of Illinois Barbershop Chorus, Jim Bicek shivers at the sound of baritones, tenors, bass and lead voices blending into Bring Him Home. But he doesn't have to be on a stage to belt one out. He'll sing in the shower, around the house, on the road — and on stage. "We sing all the time," said his wife, Louise. "In the car, around the house. "Singing is a part of our life." For more than 10 years, Bicek has brought his big voice and a lot of heart to local chapters of the Barbershop Harmony Society. The national organization branches out to 16 districts; the Illinois district has 33 chapters, …
Greg Grey
9:21 pm on Thursday, December 2, 2010
Barbershop Singing is probably one of the best decisions I have made so far. I've been singing with the Sound of Illinois for 22 years and haven't regretted a minute of it. It's not only the singing, but the fellowship that keeps me coming. Every man there is a "good guy". I met Jim 9 months ago and he has quickly became a good friend of mine. Singing Barbershop for 2 1/2 hours helps me release … more ›