Introduction

The Northern Stars are an “All-Voices” A Cappella (voices only, no instruments) ensemble, located in Ottawa, Ontario Canada. We have been together for more than 20+ years and are members of the International Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS).

We sing a variety of familiar songs both old and new, spanning multiple genres of popular and classical music. This truly offers a quality experience for both our members and audiences alike, as there is a little something for everyone!

Our rehearsals are a safe space where all are welcome – provided you enjoy singing, fun and fellowship! While we’re an auditioned chorus, and our goal is musical excellence – we believe music should be for everyone – prior training/experience is not required to join! In addition to sheet music, we have a variety of quality audio recordings that help both beginners and veterans alike in the learning process… as well as expert musical leadership and coaching to help you unleash your potential as a “STAR!”

We invite all to join us during our regular sessions on Thursday evenings – no strings attached!   

Find Out How

Our Director

Leading the Nepean Northern Stars with energy and expertise is our director, Stuart MacMartin! A true barbershop devotee, Stuart brings decades of rich experience to our chorus. He's not just a director; he's been a passionate singer, an insightful coach, and a dedicated leader within the barbershop community for many years.

Stuart's impressive journey includes a successful tenure directing the Vocal Blend All-Voice chorus. Currently, he also guides the acclaimed Brockville Thousand Islanders Chorus, a multi-award-winning women's barbershop ensemble, showcasing his ability to foster musical excellence. We're thrilled that Stuart, who has history with our chorus from years past, is now at the helm of the Nepean Northern Stars, sharing his deep knowledge, infectious enthusiasm, and vision for creating vibrant, heartwarming harmonies. Whether you're a seasoned singer or new to the risers, Stuart's supportive leadership helps make the Stars a fantastic place to sing and grow!

Our Place in the Wider World of Harmony

The Nepean Northern Stars Chorus is proud to be part of a larger network dedicated to promoting and enjoying barbershop harmony. Our affiliations connect us with resources, education, and fellow singers across the province and around the globe:

The Ontario District

• We are active members of the Ontario District, one of the regional divisions of the Barbershop Harmony Society. The Ontario District serves as the primary hub for BHS chapters and quartets throughout the province. It fosters a strong sense of community by organizing key events such as annual regional conventions (featuring chorus and quartet competitions) and valuable educational weekends like Harmony College North. Through the District, we access leadership training, performance opportunities, and connect with hundreds of other passionate harmony singers right here in Ontario. The District also champions its official charity, Harmonize 4 Speech.

The Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS)

• The Ontario District operates under the auspices of the Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS), an international organization. Founded in 1938, the BHS is one of the world's largest singing organizations, dedicated to preserving and advancing vocal harmony in the barbershop style through education, outreach, performance, and competition. While rooted in TTBB (tenor, lead, baritone, bass) history, the Society increasingly supports and celebrates harmony singing across all voice parts and genders. BHS provides invaluable resources to members worldwide, including an extensive library of barbershop arrangements, top-tier educational programs (like Harmony University), performance standards, and prestigious international competitions. Our membership connects us to this rich heritage and a vast, vibrant network of harmony enthusiasts across North America and beyond.

Our Charities

Harmonize 4 Speech (H4S)

This is the official charity of the Ontario District of the Barbershop Harmony Society. Harmonize 4 Speech provides crucial funding for services, programs, and equipment that directly assist children across Ontario facing speech, language, and communication challenges. We believe deeply in the power of every voice – whether raised in song or conversation – and are honoured to support H4S in its vital mission to help children find and use theirs effectively.

Sing Canada Harmony (SCH)

Looking nationally, Sing Canada Harmony is a registered Canadian charity dedicated to nurturing vocal music across the country. SCH provides scholarships and grants that support vocal music education, participation, and events for people of all ages, with a particular focus on encouraging youth involvement in harmony singing. By supporting Sing Canada Harmony, we invest in the future of the music we love, helping to foster the next generation of singers and ensuring that the joy of a cappella and barbershop harmony continues to thrive nationwide.