The Arkansas Living History Association State Convention is just around the corner. Dan Brittain is leading a 3 hour "singing school" type workshop on Friday, March 2nd, from 1-4 P.M. at the Prairie Grove Battle Field State Park:
Historic Shape Note and Sacred Harp SingingWe particularly need to have as many of our regular singers as are able to attend the singing school to help the new singers in the different sections. As we've seen in so many of our own singing schools, it helps if all the various voices are represented.
Dan Brittain, Past President, Arkansas Sacred Harp Convention
Prairie Grove State Park, Latta Barn
An introduction to the historical style of shape note and Sacred Harp singing. Learn why, where, and when shape note singing became part of our history. Develop your own ability for Sacred Harp singing so you can introduce it to others. Musical talent is not necessary, just the desire to make a joyful noise!
Then on Saturday morning, March 3rd, from 11:00-11:45 A.M., Dan is leading a conference session in the Dogwood Room at the Town Center in Fayetteville.
Historic Singing Alive and Well at the Shiloh MuseumPart of the seminar includes singing a couple of the songs learned during the Friday workshop. Again, we need a few regular singers to help the inexperienced participants during the session.
Dan Brittain, Past President, Arkansas Sacred Harp Convention
Dogwood Room, Town Center
This session is an introduction to Sacred Harp and shape note singing. Included is the history, music structure, learning method and singing from the Friday workshop. The final session topic outlines resources available to help bring Sacred Harp singing into your communities.
Dan and Gail Cowart have been hard at work on the workshop materials and CD's being used as part of the program. It already sounds like a fun time and an excellent opportunity to increase public awareness about shape note singing and our NWA singers.
