The Mainliners FAQ

Who are the Mainliners?

The Mainliners are an a cappella chorus that sings predominantly in the barbershop style. In November 2007, the magazine, Main Line Todaypublished an excellent article titled 'Four-Part Finery', written by former member Eric W. Herr that provides a nice introduction to the Mainliners.

When and where do we meet?

The Mainliners meet almost every Monday evening. We start gathering by 6:30 pm, and we start at 7:10 pm then go until 10:30 pm. We usually meet in the auditorium or the band or chorus rooms of Great Valley High School in Malvern, PA, except when the school is closed or when the students are rehearsing for their musicals. Please check our weekly plan for exact details of this week's agenda, location, and map links to each location.

When and where do we perform?

We'll perform just about anytime and anywhere we're asked. (see our calendar.) The Mainliners Spring Show is usually the weekend right after tax day. Our Christmas Show is usually the first or second weekend in December. Both are usually held at Conestoga High School, Berwyn, PA on the Mainline.

If you're interested in engaging the chorus or a quartet to sing at your location or event, you will find our chorus agent's info here.

Chapter Organization Structure

Barbershop chorus chapters are run by a Board of Directors, and a Music Team. The Board consists of a President, four Vice Presidents, and several Members at Large. There is also a Secretary, and a Treasurer. Each vice president is responsible for a key area of chapter administration:

  • Music & Performance
  • Programs
  • Membership
  • Marketing & Public Relations

The Music Team is led by the VP of Music & Performance, and consists of the Director and Assistant Directors, the Section Leaders and several other positions to run the music and performance side of chapter operations.

Why the name "Bryn Mawr Mainliners"?

The suburbs of Philadelphia were built along the main railroad line heading west. Bryn Mawr is one of the many communities that grew up along the 'mainline' and is where the chorus initially formed in 1963. We now meet a bit further west, but we are still on the mainline!