When men began to organize and harmonize, barbershop quartets were born.

The songs they sang touched the heart made it merry and sent it soaring.

Those who listened were carried away by the harmony of the songs and soon women, too, wanted to be a part of a music so special and so endearing.

So, they organized the Sweet Adelines, which some laughingly called beauty parlor quartets. But, they weren't beauty operators. They were Sweet Adelines and their music was the proof in the pudding.

Soon, the beautiful harmony of the Adelines quieted the teasing and the sweet sounds of the Adelines became popular all across the country.

In a similar fashion, the Adelines will arrive in Troy.

The Heart of Dixie Barbershop Chorus and the Dixie Cutups Quartet have made names for themselves in and around Pike County. The groups are brining back the musical art form that was so popular a half-century ago. And, they are finding that the soothing sounds of barbershop music have a place in today's world of music and in the hearts of the people.

Not to be left just humming along, a group of Sweet Adelines has decided to form a group of their own.

The Sweet Adelines of Pike County will hold an organizational meeting at 5:30 p.m. March 6 at the Colley Senior Complex.

Mary Ann Casey, complex director, said the Sweet Adelines International is an organization of 27,000 women worldwide who love to sing four-part a capella harmony barbershop style.

"This will be a wonderful opportunity for women who enjoy singing to become a part of this world-wide organization," Casey said. "The first meeting is an organizational one and those wishing to help get this group started are encouraged to come."

Casey said plans are for the Sweet Adelines to meet once a week and to appear at local events.

"It's going to be great fun and we expect to have a big group of Sweet Adelines here in Pike County," she said.

For more information about the Sweet Adelines call Elaine Weston at 566-7357 or the Colley Senior Complex at 808-8500.