Shape note musical notation was developed in New England around 1800 to simplify teaching music. In this class, we will sing folk hymns from the 1844 tune book The Sacred Harp. This tradition had almost died out by the 1950s, but has since seen a revival. The songs are religious, but the singings are secular, with people from many spiritual backgrounds attending. This class will be primarily singing, I will teach as we sing. No musical experience is necessary.

Moderator: Rich Overturf has been singing shape note music for 30+ years. He is a member of the Cincinnati Sacred Harp Singers. He has helped organize many local singings and has traveled to many singings in the Midwest and South.