You are cordially invited to attend a free and open 2-day convention of sing-along early American music. Vocalists of all abilities are welcome. Come to sing or to listen. It is not necessary to ‘read music.’
On Sept. 29, Sept. 30, and Oct. 1, Vermont will host the New England Sacred Harp Singing Convention in Burlington for the first time in five years (goo.gl/TKY7YZ). The convention carries on a unique New England singing tradition dating back to the 1700s. Two days of “shape note singing” are expected to attract over 200 singers from across the country to sing in Burlington’s historic City Hall.
Originating in New England, this haunting music has survived over 200 years in the rural Deep South. You may have heard this singing style in the recent historical films, Cold Mountain and Gangs of New York.
The weekend will begin on Friday evening with a traditional “singing school” taught by Buell Cobb of Alabama and Nathan Rees of Georgia from 7:00-9:30pm. This workshop will include instruction on leading and accented singing, and is designed for both new singers and practiced singers. Buell will also read from his book, Like Cords Around My Heart: A Sacred Harp Memoir. A book signing and refreshments will follow. Books will be for sale for $20 and the audio-book (an 8-CD set) for $40.
Open singing will take place on Sat. and Sun. from 10:00am to 3:30pm, with a potluck dinner on the grounds at 12:30pm. Participants will sing from The Sacred Harp (1991 Denson edition), which has been in continuous use since its original publication in 1844. Songbooks will be available to borrow and purchase.
The convention is free. All ages, voice parts and abilities are welcome. No experience needed. Come and go as you please throughout the weekend. Donations appreciated.
All events will take place in City Hall, 149 Church St., Burlington, VT.
Friday, September 29
7:00 to 9:30pm - Workshop on Traditions of Sacred Harp: Leading and Accented Singing. A reading from Dr. Cobb’s book, Like Cords Around My Heart: A Sacred Harp Memoir will be followed by a book signing and light refreshments. For more details, visit goo.gl/2V8eiw
Saturday, September 30
9:30am - Registration
10:00am to 3:30pm – Singing - (12:30 to 1:30pm - Potluck Dinner on the Grounds)
5:00pm - Social at the home of a local singer (directions provided at the Sat. singing)
6:30pm - Shenandoah Harmony Singing at the Social
Sunday, October 1
9:30am - Registration
10:00am to 3:30pm – Singing - (12:30 to 1:30pm - Potluck Dinner on the Grounds)
For any questions, contact:
Anna Mays, tel: (484) 459-1916, or email: anna.mays@gmail.com
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