IMPROV’s story began during the Christmas season of 2023 in Belleville, Illinois, when four singers came together as a pickup quartet for the Sounds of Harmony Chorus Christmas show. They decided to sing “Toyland,” a song simply picked for the show, a seasonal number that turned out to be much more than a one-time performance. The quartet’s sound struck a chord with the audience and even with family members who were there to hear them. The response was so enthusiastic that the singers were encouraged to make the quartet official. What began as a last-minute gathering of voices suddenly had the makings of something special.

In March 2024, IMPROV made the decision to pursue that possibility in earnest and begin its quartet journey, with district competition as the first big goal. The name IMPROV suits the group perfectly: all four members were already involved in other musical projects and balancing busy personal lives, leaving little room for the long, frequent rehearsals many quartets rely on. Instead, they made the most of the time they had, rehearsing before and after Sounds of Harmony Chorus rehearsals. With limited hours together, every practice counted, and every performance became an opportunity to listen, adapt, trust one another, and make the most of the moment. In many ways, improvisation became not just the spirit behind the name, but the way the quartet learned to work together.

Together, Ryan Latinette, Doug Brooks, Paul Schulte, and Steve Martin bring more than 100 years of combined barbershop experience to IMPROV. Each member brings his own musical background, perspective, and strengths, creating a blend shaped by years of singing and a shared commitment to entertaining audiences. Doug, Paul, and Steve also sang with the Ambassadors of Harmony, the six-time International Chorus Champions, bringing that rich choral tradition and championship experience to the quartet. Despite their demanding schedules and unconventional rehearsal routine, the four singers continue to prove that musical connection, preparation, and a willingness to improvise can turn limited time into something memorable. From an unexpected Christmas performance to district champions, IMPROV’s story is about making the most of every opportunity, and discovering what can happen when four voices come together as one.

From fifth place to District Champions