The AIC Remembers Carl Dahlke, a man whose life was measured not just in years, but in chords, harmonies, and the joy of making music together.

For more than 60 years, Carl was a devoted member of the Barbershop Harmony Society. As the bass of the gold medal–winning Auto Towners in 1966, he helped set a standard of excellence that resonated far beyond the contest stage. Yet Carl’s greatest legacy wasn’t a medal—it was his generosity. As a director, coach, arranger, and composer, he freely shared his knowledge, his ear, and his encouragement, shaping singers and ensembles for generations.

Carl understood that barbershop is about more than notes on a page. It’s about listening, blending, and building something beautiful together. He brought that same spirit to every room he entered—steady, good-humored, and quietly determined.

We will miss Carl’s voice, his wisdom, and his presence among us. But every time we lock a chord, every time a bass line grounds the sound, we honor him. His harmony lives on in all of us who had the privilege to sing alongside him.