What we’re about
Check our website at bay area sacred harp. Also check out our active facebook group
We are diverse and enthusiastic group of singers who exclusively sing sacred harp music. You love to sing? A curious soul eager to try something new? You like to shout? Our community celebrates the joy of shared tunes, finding harmony in the melodies that echo the sacred.
Sacred Harp, a vibrant tradition of shape note singing, is a dynamic form of congregational and community music rooted in American history. Dating back to the 18th century, it employs unique geometric symbols, or shape notes, to facilitate group singing. Participants, both musicians and non-musicians, unite in spirited four-part harmony, creating a powerful and inclusive experience. The Sacred Harp hymnals, such as "The Sacred Harp" and "The Christian Harmony," showcase a diverse range of hymns and tunes. Characterized by its rich history, democratic ethos, and emphasis on communal participation, Sacred Harp stands as a living testament to the enduring power of shared music.
Beyond the music, we delve into the profound—memento mori, a reflection on mortality, and the evocative power of music therapy. Our appreciation for the performing arts extends to the live music experience, where every note becomes a shared moment in time.
We don't do rehearsals. We practice a song once, sounding out the notes, and then enthusiastically singing the lyrics. The ethos is one of participation and community. From time to time we have singing conventions, characterized by food and song.