Sacred Harp in Belfast, 16 Mar. 2014

Thanks to the Open House Festival team in Belfast for the news that on Sunday 16 March the Belfast Sacred Harp group holds a singing session at Newtownbreda (St John’s) Presbyterian Church Hall, 374-8 Ormeau Road, Belfast, from 7.30 to 9.30 p.m. Admission free (suggested donation £1).

The Open House e-newsletter (which has some pleasing graphics) adds the following introduction to Sacred Harp:

Sacred Harp (or shape note) singing is a powerful traditional a cappella form of four-part harmony singing from America, which is going through a revival after its recent prominence in the soundtrack of the film Cold Mountain. This class is secular and no singing or choral experience is needed. Loan copies of the Sacred Harp book will be available. All welcome.

See what Sacred Harp singing is all about at the following links:

'I'm going home'
'Awake my soul' film trailer

The Open House Festival mailing address is:

Open House Festival
Oh Yeah Centre
15-21 Gordon St.
Belfast BT1 2LG