Local Information Singings in Virginia/D.C. Area UVA Special Collection of Shape Note Hymnals RRSH Singers: Photos Web Resources Lisa Grayson's Beginners' Sheet |
About us Rivanna River Sacred harp Singers have been singing since 2002 in Charlottesville, Virginia. We use the shape note traditions' most current and popular songbook, The Sacred Harp (Denson 1991). We meet the second Saturday of each month from 9:30 to 11:30 AM at the Thomas Jefferson Memorial Church and the fourth Thursday evening of each month from 7:30 to 9:00 PM at the Quaker Meeting House. All are welcome to the singings regardless of musical ability or religious affiliation; there are no fees, and loaner hymnals are available.
What is Sacred Harp singing? Sacred Harp music has a distinctive modal sound with roots in 19th century New England and some early British folk traditions. The singing is a very rich, often exuberant experience. There are many shape note singing communities across the U.S., Canada and the U.K. who form a network of fellowship and shared love for this non-denominational music. Singers cross all socio-political and economic boundaries in this shared living tradition. Our most current and popular songbook, The Sacred Harp, which dates back to the 1840's, contain hymns and anthems that are sung a capella as a community-oriented event. The music is printed as traditional notes on a staff but each note is one of 4 different shapes that are sung as syllables at the beginning of every song. Please read more about Sacred Harp, or "shape note" singing, as well as find out where singing events occur. The included links contain a wealth of information about the history, method, deep connections and love of this music. |
