Sacred Harp singing, also called shape note singing, is a participatory, a cappella, 4-part harmony singing tradition that dates back 200 years and is still alive and growing today. All are welcome! No performances, rehearsals, commitment, experience, or ability required!
Join us at this workshop to learn the shape note system, which originated to help people sight-read music, and have the opportunity to sing several songs in harmony. Beginners and children are welcome at this workshop, and there is no need to bring any materials or instruments or prepare in advance.
Jenny Solheim heard Sacred Harp singing for the first time when she was five days old, when the St. Louis shape note singers (including her dad) sang to her over the phone. She now sings regularly with the Bay Area Sacred Harp group and has traveled to shape note events throughout the US and in Norway. She has also written several shape note songs, including two that are in the new edition of The Sacred Harp.
Dami Osoba is a Sacred Harp enthusiast with a lifelong passion for falling into rabbit holes.
For more information about Sacred Harp singing in the Bay Area, visit bayareasacredharp.org.