Manchester Folk Festival 2019: Sacred Harp Workshop
Carmel Smickersgill, Tours & Activities Editor
Sacred Harp is a tradition that started in New England, with songs dating back as far as the 18th and 19th Centuries. It is a form of A capella singing that is rapidly gaining popularity among hobbyists in the UK. Join Manchester Sacred Harp for a workshop where you’ll learn to sing these accessible 4 part songs. With its roots in the English Folk tradition this style of singing gets its name from the human voice, and with good reason, the instinctual sound created by large groups shakes rooves and reminds us of our humanity.
The songs use a system of notation which can be picked up easily without prior musical training and are a perfect way for non musicians to find their voice. Groups sit in four sections according to each persons voice type, so all you need to be able to do is hear the person next to you.
the instinctual sound created by large groups shakes rooves and reminds us of our humanity
Although some of the songs have religious texts, the aim of the workshop is to make music and encourage people to discover a joy in singing. Anyone and everyone is welcome to join in regardless of religion or musical background, all you need is the willingness to try something new.
As well as the Manchester Folk festival workshop at HOME, Manchester Sacred Harp group meet for monthly sessions at the Kings Arms in Salford.
