Sacred Harp, or shape note singing, is an American a cappella hymn tradition with roots in Puritan New England and the 19th century rural south. It is primarily an amateur, non-performing tradition, with singers from a wide variety of musical backgrounds and skill levels encouraged to participate. The harmonies are raw and haunting, and singers usually sing loudly and heartily. It is a living tradition, with singings all over the country and in a few other countries, such as Canada, Germany, and the United Kingdom and composers still writing music in this style. Singings are generally open to participation from anyone who wants to sing, so please join the Utah Sacred Harp Singers at this year's festival, no experience necessary!
