Bill Litz

For more than two decades, Bill Litz has helped shape the Stockton Portsmen through his passion for barbershop harmony, commitment to musical excellence, and belief that every singer has the potential to grow.

As Director since 2002, Bill has guided the chorus through periods of growth, innovation, and achievement while preserving the values that have defined the chapter since its founding in 1954. His leadership is rooted in education, encouragement, and creating an environment where singers of all experience levels can succeed.

Great harmony begins with great people

Quick Facts

A Lifetime in Harmony

Bill's barbershop journey began in 1975 and has included experiences as a chorus singer, quartet performer, coach, chapter leader, educator, and director. In 2000, he joined the Stockton Portsmen alongside his son Jordan Litz, beginning a family connection to the chorus that continues today.

Music and harmony have become a family tradition. Bill's son, Jordan, served as lead of the 2006 Far Western District Champion quartet Late Show before building a successful performing career at Disney World, on Broadway and on London's West End. Bill's daughter, Megan Litz-Kjelstrom, is an active member of the Stockton Portsmen and has also enjoyed success in Sweet Adelines International. As lead of the quartet Fresco, she represented Region 12 on the international competition stage and continues to share her love of harmony with her dazzling quartet, Hot Mess Express.

Today, multiple generations of the Litz family have been connected to the barbershop community through performance, education, leadership, and service. Their shared passion for harmony reflects the values that Bill has championed throughout his years as director.

Since becoming director in 2002, Bill has dedicated himself to helping singers discover their potential while building a chorus culture centered on learning, friendship, and performance excellence.

Building a Welcoming Chorus

One of Bill's greatest priorities has been creating an environment where every singer feels valued and supported.

The Stockton Portsmen bring together people from different backgrounds, communities, and levels of musical experience who share a common love of harmony singing. Under Bill's leadership, the chorus has embraced growth while remaining true to the spirit of friendship and service that has long defined the organization.

He believes that great choruses are built not only through music, but through relationships, mentorship, and a shared commitment to helping one another succeed.

Leadership Through Education

Throughout his years as director, Bill has championed lifelong learning and vocal development.

Whether coaching a new singer, working with a quartet, preparing a performance, or leading a rehearsal, his goal remains the same: helping each member become the best musician they can be.

His dedication to music education has influenced singers throughout the Far Western District and helped foster a culture where improvement, curiosity, and personal growth are celebrated.

A Lasting Impact

Bill's leadership has helped guide the Stockton Portsmen through significant milestones in the chapter's history, including its evolution into a mixed harmony chorus and its continued growth as an award-winning ensemble.

His influence can be seen not only in performances and accomplishments, but in the friendships formed, the confidence gained by singers, and the welcoming culture that continues to attract new voices.

In recognition of his decades of service, leadership, mentorship, and dedication to the barbershop community, Bill was honored as the 2026 Far Western District Northern Divisions Convention Dedicatee.

Looking Toward the Future

Bill remains passionate about preserving and sharing the art of barbershop harmony while helping future generations discover the joy of making music together.

He believes the future of the Stockton Portsmen is bright because of the people who continue to share their time, talents, enthusiasm, and friendship with the chorus and the communities it serves.

Message from Bill

Welcome to the Stockton Portsmen,

For many of us, barbershop harmony began with a simple invitation to attend a rehearsal. What followed were friendships, opportunities, and experiences that enriched our lives in ways we never expected.

The Stockton Portsmen are more than a chorus. We are a community of singers who encourage one another, learn together, and share the joy of creating music that touches audiences and strengthens connections.

My goal as director is to help every member grow musically, contribute meaningfully, and experience the satisfaction that comes from being part of something larger than themselves.

I am grateful to the many members, leaders, families, and supporters who have helped shape this chorus throughout its history. Together, we continue a tradition that began in 1954 while building an exciting future for those who will follow.

Thank you for being part of our journey.

Bill Litz
Director, Stockton Portsmen