The tradition of 'Sacred Harp' music lives on in the South

Key Concepts

• Sacred Harp: A unique form of a cappella, choral singing of hymns and odes, practiced in a round.
• Shape Notes: A system of musical notation where notes are represented by different shapes to indicate pitch, facilitating sight-reading for those without formal musical training.
• Hollow Square: The traditional arrangement of singers in Sacred Harp, with each part singing from their edge of the square.
• Community and Connection: A central theme, emphasizing the bonding and familial relationships formed through singing.
• Accessibility: The practice is open to all, regardless of religious affiliation or musical skill.

Sacred Harp Singing: A Community-Driven Musical Tradition

This report introduces Sacred Harp, a distinctive form of a cappella and choral singing that, while rooted in religious hymns and odes, is primarily driven by community and connection rather than strict religious observance. Originating in 18th-century Europe and finding a strong foothold in the American South, Sacred Harp singing is experiencing a resurgence, attracting a growing number of young participants.

The Nature of Sacred Harp Singing

Sacred Harp is characterized by its unique sound, described as having a "rawness" that distinguishes it from contemporary music. It is performed without instruments, relying solely on the human voice. The singing is often conducted in small spaces and features a peculiar four-part harmony sung in a round. While the lyrics are sacred, the practice itself is inclusive, drawing participants from diverse religious backgrounds, including Jews, Catholics, Christians, and Muslims. As Helen Brown from Ireland notes, "We sing sacred words and to a lot of us it is worship. Okay. To others perhaps not."

Historical Roots and Cultural Significance

The tradition dates back to the late 18th century and gained prominence in the American South. It is notably featured in the 2003 Oscar-winning film Cold Mountain, set at the end of the American Civil War. The report highlights that Sacred Harp was accessible to individuals who might not have been able to read words, let alone music, during that era. The songbook, also titled Sacred Harp, was first published in rural Georgia in 1864 and is updated approximately once every generation. The 1991 edition contains over 550 songs.

The Role of Shape Notes in Accessibility

A key element contributing to the accessibility of Sacred Harp is its use of shape notes. This system, which predates modern musical notation for many, employs different shapes for musical notes to indicate pitch. The report explains:

• The fa is a triangle.
• The sol is a circle or oval.
• The la is a square or slightly rectangular shape.
• The mi is a diamond.

These shapes visually represent the intervals between notes, allowing individuals with no prior musical training to learn to sight-read music. As one participant explains, "The shape tells you how high or low the pitch is." Singers then vocalize these shape note syllables while performing their respective harmony parts. This method enables people to learn the intervals and read music solely by shape note, even without extensive musical education.

Community and Inclusivity

The communal aspect of Sacred Harp singing is paramount. Participants emphasize the strong bonds and familial relationships that develop through these gatherings. Jesse Carlberg, a young father who contributed new songs to the latest edition of the songbook, notes that the singing forms "these kind of bonds that singers come to feel is akin to family." The practice is welcoming to all, regardless of vocal ability. "You don't have to have a beautiful voice and you're joining your voice with the person on your left and your right and across the square," the report states.

More than 700 people from various faiths and numerous countries gathered in Atlanta for an event featuring the new edition of the songbook. The report underscores the importance of this connection: "The communal part of this is super important to you. Some people we sing with each other almost every week and other people we might see just once every few years. But we come to love these singers." The sentiment is echoed by the statement, "If you sing Sacred Heart, you're my friend and we love you. Um it is it's it's a family."

The Experiential Aspect

The singing is described as a profound, almost spiritual experience. Participants speak of the sound "penetrat[ing] you and just mak[ing] you come alive." There is a perceived "tension in it that always releases and it's just really powerful." The core philosophy is that "every voice is holy," and everyone is welcomed with "open arms" as long as they wish to sing.

Conclusion

Sacred Harp singing represents a powerful blend of historical tradition, accessible musical education through shape notes, and a deeply ingrained sense of community. It offers a unique opportunity for individuals to connect with each other and experience the profound impact of collective vocal music, transcending religious and skill-based barriers. The practice highlights a desire for authentic, in-person connection in today's world.