Manchester’s Sacred Harp hosts an open session for all to take part in this uplifting American choral tradition. Suitable for singers of all abilities, with no previous musical or singing experience needed. All you need is the ability to listen and the willingness to give it a go!
The name ‘Sacred Harp’ refers to the human voice: each tune is sung in four-part harmony, with no musical accompaniment. This style of singing is enjoyed all over the world and has rapidly grown in popularity in the UK in recent years, with groups all over the country hosting regular sessions.
This a capella singing tradition originated in New England. Songs in the tunebook hark back to the 18th and 19th centuries, with their roots in English folk song and the old hymns sung in rural England, which may explain why English folk musicians from The Watersons to False Lights have folded Sacred Harp into their repertoire.
Participants from all faiths and none are welcome: the focus is purely on making music together. Come along to this unique workshop and sing your heart out.
This event is part of Manchester Folk Festival – an urban folk festival. It takes place over 18-21 October 2018, in an around HOME and the city centre. Over the autumn weekend, they present an exhilarating range of events, with the spotlight on English folk.
