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Shape-Note Singing .... work in progress |
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| Shape-Note
Singing, or as my Gramma called it "Heavenly Harp" singing was very
popular in the mountains of southwest Virginia in the late 1800's.
In researching it, I have found that it is actually (officially)
called "Sacred Harp" singing - and is favored by the Amish and
Mennonite communities - but is finding a resurgence of interest in
these mountain valleys among many denominations. There are several
hymnbooks still published with shape notes. If you're not familiar with "shape-note singing" one excellent place to get a brief overview is at The Christian Harmony. Mr. Larry Beveridge graciously gave me permission to use his article on the subject in an upcoming Introduction to Shape-Note Singing class at the Chestnut Creek School of the Arts in Galax, VA. There is much more I want to say about shape-note singing - personal stories of how it became part of our family and how I use it now in my music. |
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