Shape-Note Singing

December 8th: Contact rosenber@middlebury.edu for details on location.

Described as spiritual, joyful, powerful, and raucous, Shape-Note (or Sacred Harp) singing is a traditional American style of four-part, a capella, community singing popular in the United States before the Civil War. This style still thrives across the US and in the UK, with strongholds in the American South and New England. It is called Shape-Note because the notes of the scale are indicated by distinctive shapes and names.

No training or musical ability is necessary; the tradition emphasizes participation, not performance.  Led by Professor Emeritus David Rosenberg of the Middlebury Shape-Note Singers.