GQ Makes Barbershop History at the 2026 International Convention

A milestone moment for the Barbershop Harmony Society — and an inspiration for singers everywhere.

The 2026 Barbershop Harmony Society International Convention delivered one of the most historic results our hobby has ever seen. For the first time in the Society’s 88‑year history, an all‑female quartet captured the International Quartet Championship. The newly crowned champions, GQ, earned their gold medals with a stunning performance set that electrified the St. Louis audience and resonated across the global barbershop community.

Their victory wasn’t just a contest result — it was a landmark moment that reflects how far our Society has come and where it’s headed next.

Who Is GQ?

GQ (short for “Girls Quartet”) formed more than a decade ago and quickly became known for their lush blend, musical intelligence, and genre‑spanning repertoire. Since the Barbershop Harmony Society opened membership to all singers in 2018, GQ has been a leading example of what inclusive barbershop can look and sound like.

The quartet’s members are:

• Amanda Sandroni – Tenor

• Katie Gillis – Lead/Baritone

• Ali Hauger – Lead/Baritone

• Samantha Tramack – Bass

Their 2026 contest package showcased everything barbershop fans love: precision, artistry, emotional storytelling, and a deep respect for the craft. According to official BHS scoring, GQ earned a 93.4%, placing them at the top of an exceptionally competitive field.

Why This Win Matters

GQ’s championship is more than a medal — it’s a reflection of the Barbershop Harmony Society’s ongoing evolution.

For decades, the International Quartet Contest was limited to male singers. That changed in 2018, when the Society formally welcomed all voices. Since then, quartets of every voice type have stepped onto the international stage, but 2026 marks the first time an all‑female quartet has claimed the top honor.

This moment signals a future where barbershop harmony is defined not by who sings it, but by the excellence, passion, and artistry they bring to the music.

A Moment That Resonates in Gainesville

Here in Gainesville, the Barbergators Chorus celebrates harmony for everyone — through community outreach, youth programs, and performances that welcome singers of all backgrounds. GQ’s win aligns beautifully with our mission and the values we champion.

It’s also fun to note that Amanda Sandroni, GQ’s tenor, has close ties to the broader barbershop community. Her husband, Vince Sandroni, directs Parkside Harmony, which earned a fifth‑place chorus medal at the same convention. Their household is having quite a musical year.

2026 International Quartet Medalists

The top five quartets at the 2026 International Quartet Contest were:

1. GQ – 93.4%

2. Gimme Four – 93.1%

3. Full Effect – 92.3%

4. First Take – 91.0%

5. Sunday Night Social – 90.9% (the first mixed‑gender quartet ever to medal)

These results highlight the extraordinary depth of talent across today’s barbershop world.

Looking Ahead

GQ’s historic win is a reminder that barbershop harmony continues to grow, evolve, and welcome new voices. Their achievement inspires singers across the Society — including right here in Gainesville — to keep pushing boundaries, keep singing boldly, and keep building a community where everyone can find their place on the risers.

From all of us at Barbergators.com, congratulations to GQ on a groundbreaking and well‑deserved championship. The future of barbershop has never sounded better.