Christmas carols in July? Cool

In the basement of Temple Sinai in Cinnaminson, Stephanie Brictson was in full form.

"Pummel that word!" she bellowed - then conceded, "Pummel is a word rarely used in barbershop."

On the risers in front of her, the all-female barbershop chorus laughed.

Then, despite the 94-degree heat, they launched into another rendition of "Let It Snow."

It's summer, and they're in a synagogue, but already members of the Jersey Sound are rehearsing Christmas carols.

On a Wednesday in late June, the group, which has been in existence for 48 years, launched its first-ever JingleBelle June program, inviting anyone interested to rehearse once a month until Christmastime to prepare for its holiday performances.

Although Jersey Sound demands from its regular 50-some members once-a-week three-hour rehearsals, the JingleBelle June program gives former members the ability to sing without making such a heavy commitment - and it lets new members test the waters, said Diane Woodruff, JingleBelle June coordinator.

Despite Woodruff's fears of an abysmal turnout - "I had these dreams that no one would show up!" - about eight women attended the one-hour rehearsal, including a retired Jersey Sound member in her late 70s and a mother with her adult twin daughters.

Barbershop traditionally conjures up images of gray-haired guys in suspenders, or, if you're lucky, college boys delivering singing telegrams.

And even though net membership in the international Sweet Adelines organization - of which Jersey Sound is a member - has decreased by about 1,000 to 25,000 over the last five years, the flashier side of barbershop is determined to make its presence known, said Sweet Adelines membership coordinator Ann-Marie Dowling.

Sweet Adelines has been on NBC's a cappella singing competition The Sing-Off. In October they set the Guinness World Record for the largest singing lesson in the world - 6,651 participants. And they graced the cover of American Profile magazine in February.

For its part, Jersey Sound is looking to boost membership as well.

"Are we looking to become more visible? Yes. I couldn't say that quick enough," said Chris Slusser, Jersey Sound's public relations coordinator.