About

An Introduction to Sacred Harp Singing

19th Century Heavy Metal, Gregorian Chant meets Bluegrass, The old growth forest of American music. These descriptions of Sacred Harp Singing might intimidate, but don't let them. At its heart is a musical notation created to simplify the learning process, and a tradition that warmly welcomes anyone who wishes to join in.

Sacred Harp is a tradition of singing unaccompanied four part harmony from a song book of centuries-old hymns, anthems, and other tunes.

This workshop will briefly cover the history of the Sacred Harp tradition, as well as how the tradition is currently observed through weekly and annual singings.

The majority of time will be devoted to reading and singing the distinctive shapenotes used in the Sacred Harp, the tradition of beating time, and working through several songs.

Your instructor:

Mark Bedard moved to the area last year from western Massachusetts, where he was an active member of a Sacred Harp Singing community for several years. His goal in promoting this music is the establishment of a well attended weekly Sacred Harp Singing in Christchurch. 

Date

Location

Get directions

Christchurch Folk Music Club
29 Domain Terrace, Spreydon, Christchurch 8024

VENUE: Irish Society Hall, 29 Domain Terrace, Spreydon The hall is situated up the long driveway, directly next to Domain Park, and there is plenty of well-lit off-street parking.

Doors open 7pm. Performance starts at 7.30pm - online bookings will close 2 hours prior to the event start time.  After this time only door sales will be available on the night and will be dependant on the number of seats available in line with the Hall capacity.

LIMITED DOOR SALES AVAILABLE IF ONLINE SALES ARE NOT SOLD OUT. 

Please note that Door Sales are CASH ONLY: Tea, coffee, biscuits and cake available during the break, also bar facilities for cold refreshments throughout the night, Eftpos available at the bar for purchases only, no cash-out facility.

Folk Club and Irish Society members please remember to bring your membership card for licensing purposes. Non-members sign in at the bar if making purchases. 

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