Carl Hultman, originator of The Four G’s, says he has always been drawn to Four Freshmen arrangements. “When I first heard them years ago, I loved the blend of their voices, the tight harmonies. When I realized they were accompanying themselves – playing the instrumental parts as well – that was amazing.
“In more recent years I played guitar backing the group “In The Mood,” modeled on big band vocal groups. It was led by drummer/singer Bill Wood, now deceased. He was a teacher at Harborcreek High School. I really liked that experience.”
Beginnings
"I began thinking about starting a four-piece vocal/instrumental group. I needed a horn player who could sing, and found Stan Bialomizy, a wonderful reeds musician who has played with the Benny Goodman, Tommy Dorsey and Glen Miller bands, the Temptations, and many local bands – and, it turns out, taught vocal music in New York for many years. And Stan was interested in the idea!
"Bob Seaman, a fine bass player and vocalist who could sing in a high range, and sings in many area groups, came aboard. And Barb Schwartz, who has a beautiful true voice, perfect pitch, and plays guitar and banjo – and with whom I’ve worked for many years, completed the quartet."
Great Sound
"Since our first get-together, the sound has been great. Stan, who’s a vocal instructor, began to offer suggestions about technique: pronunciation, coordination, choreography. So his role is vocal coach for the group. We want to get the group to a level where we can go anywhere and feel competitive."
Tunes the group will sing on Singers Night are “It’s a Blue World,” “Poincianna,” “Graduation Day,” and “And Now It’s Over,” all Four Freshmen arrangements.
Carl teaches chemistry at Gannon University, is the resident expert on nanotechnology, and is a partner in a high tech metal plating company. Barb teaches at Girard Middle School, was formerly a research chemist at International Paper. Bob is manager of a State Liquor Store. Stan is a retired music teacher in the New York school system, at both secondary and college levels, as well as a practicing professional musician.
The Four G's In Concert
Here's Joe Dorris introducing the group, followed by the Four G's performing Graduation Day.
The Four G’s