Our History

A Legacy of Harmony and Excellence

From our beginnings as two separate choruses in Raleigh and Cary to becoming an internationally celebrated ensemble, Carolina Harmony Chorus continues to raise the bar for women’s barbershop harmony. Our long tradition of competition excellence, musical innovation, and inclusive community sets us apart in the Sweet Adelines world.

Carolina Harmony Chorus has a rich legacy in barbershop a cappella music dating back to the late 1960s.

  • In 1968, the Raleigh Chapter of Sweet Adelines International was first chartered.

  • A second group, Sound of Carolina, formed in Cary in 1975.

  • In 1978, these two passionate choruses merged to form the Carolina Harmony Chapter, launching with 60 singers under the direction of Jan Mott.

Leadership continued with Cathy Rothey, followed by Barbara Dixon, who led the chorus for eight years and directed our first medal-winning performance in international competition.
Since 1997, Susie Smith has served as our Musical Director, inspiring and guiding Carolina Harmony for over 25 years of harmony, growth, and award-winning excellence.

Competition Success:

International & Regional Recognition

Carolina Harmony is proud to be one of the top-ranked small choruses in Sweet Adelines International. We consistently place at the highest levels in both international competitions and Region 14 contests.

Sweet Adelines International – Harmony Classic Results

Sweet Adelines Region 14 Competition Results