About Us
Welcome to Tacoma’s premier Men’s Barbershop Harmony Chorus within Washington State.
We proudly call Division II our home within the Evergreen District of the Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS).
Founded in 1946, we have been entertaining audiences with close harmony for 80 years and look forward to preserving this style for future generations.
So, what are you waiting for? Just hum along until you learn your part and helps us Keep the Whole World Singing!
Sing with Us!
Tacoma Vocal Standard rehearses every Tuesday from 7:00PM-9:30PM in the gymnasium of First Christian Church of Tacoma, located at 602 N Orchard St, Tacoma, WA 98406
Questions? Contact us: sing@TacomaVocalStandard.com
Our Director
Ken Potter
With over 42 years of active experience, this accomplished choral director stands as one of the most respected figures in the vocal performance community. A seven-time international gold medalist with the prestigious Barbershop Harmony Society, he has consistently demonstrated mastery in both artistry and direction.
As the long-time director of Northwest Sound, he led the chorus to five district championships over more than a decade of dedicated leadership. Beyond the podium, his musical expertise extends into a rich career as a professional pianist, composer, and vocal teacher, bringing a depth of technical skill and artistry that elevates every ensemble he works with.
Whether on stage or in rehearsal, his guidance inspires precision, passion, and performance at the highest level.
Tacoma Vocal Standard believes in harmony.
We are welcoming to all. That includes everyone.
We sing in a fair & safe environment.
We do not judge others, especially on their singing ability.
We turn off all tech on the risers.
We wait to be invited to join the chorus on the risers.
We adhere to the Ten-Second Rule*.
We do not sing or hum when the pitch is blown.
We do not sing or hum when other sections are singing, we listen instead.
We defer questions to section leaders whenever possible.
We wait to privately give criticism and praise of leadership, including the director.
We are committed to attending rehearsal or performance for the entire duration.
We are active recruiters. Singing is more fun when we are able to share it with our brothers.
We have fun at the right time.
We spread the joy of harmony through song and performance.
*When the Director pauses rehearsal, please wait 10 seconds for instructions before starting side conversations.
Leadership Team
President – Vince Fiorel
Music Team
Music VP – Terry Warford
Assistant Director – Vacant
Tenor Section Leaders – Vacant
Lead Section Leaders – Aaron Stahl
Baritone Section Leaders – Vacant
Bass Section Leaders – Vacant
Music Librarian –Phil Bergh
Nikki Tarravella of Tacoma Vocal Standard passed from this life on February 10, 2026.
She proudly described herself as our #1 fan and groupie, and it showed in her actions as well.
For well over a decade, Nikki was at almost every single rehearsal, full of smiles, encouragement and hugs.
She attended our public performances, including contests and conventions. She enjoyed our shows – often found selling tickets, raffle tickets, operating stage curtains and helping any way she could.
She worked countless hours for many years. She helped TVS on our largest fund raiser, helping West Sound Chorus parking cars at the Kitsap Fair.
She even became a non-member board member for us, serving as member-at-large when she passed.
Nikki Tarravella was a rock-solid person who was always there for us, and always there with a smile.
We will miss our #1 fan.