Latest update of 1844 American songbook reflects new generation of 'Sacred Harp' singers
Summary
The Sacred Harp, an old American songbook first published in 1844, has been updated with new songs and has attracted a younger audience. A large gathering of over 700 singers celebrated this new edition in Atlanta, highlighting the tradition's growing diversity and continued significance.Key Facts
- The Sacred Harp songbook first came out in 1844 and uses "shape notes" to help with reading music.
- The latest edition, released in 2025, includes 113 new songs.
- More than 700 singers recently gathered in Atlanta to celebrate the new edition.
- People from 35 U.S. states, three Canadian provinces, Australia, the UK, Ireland, and Germany attended the event.
- The songbook now features songs by 49 living composers, including the first Latino composer.
- Sacred Harp singing does not use instruments; it relies solely on vocal harmonies.
- The community includes diverse groups, such as different Christian denominations, atheists, and LGBTQ+ individuals.
- The 2003 movie "Cold Mountain" and platforms like YouTube have helped attract younger singers.
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