Sacred Harp Singing: A Tradition of Faith and Community
Bremen, Ga. — Sacred Harp singing, a cherished tradition among its devoted followers, carries a rich legacy of over 180 years. This unique hymnal is enjoyed by people of all ages, with many passing down the love of its music from generation to generation. Some singers have been part of this community for their entire lives, while others join as adults, discovering both spiritual connection and friendship through the music.
Members of the Sacred Harp community are eager to embrace the release of a new edition of their beloved songbook, and many are reflecting on what this form of a cappella singing means to them.
A Spiritual Connection
Isaac Green expresses that for him, Sacred Harp singing transcends typical musical enjoyment. “Sacred Harp singing is my church,” Green notes, emphasizing that the message in the hymns resonates more deeply with him than traditional preaching. Originally from Knoxville, Tennessee, he stumbled upon the Sacred Harp tradition while living in Alpharetta, Georgia. He appreciates the diverse backgrounds of the singers. "When we come together and sing, that can be our one thing that unites us," he shares.
Discovering Harmony in Alabama
Bridge Hill Kennedy found solace in Sacred Harp singing over two decades ago while attending an event with family. “Some of the most beautiful music that I’ve ever heard” emerged from the backwoods of Alabama, and it continues to uplift him. He values the connections he’s made through this community, which have deepened his understanding and love for others, even those he initially found difficult.
Family Legacy
For Reba Dell Windom, Sacred Harp singing embodies family tradition. Weekends spent singing hymns brought her closer to her roots. Windom treasures her worn 1991 edition of “The Sacred Harp,” viewing it with the same respect as a Bible. She holds onto her grandfather’s and father’s old songbooks, leading songs that evoke cherished memories of those who have passed.
A New Generation of Singers
Eleven-year-old Riley McKibbin is already following in the footsteps of her family’s long line of Sacred Harp singers. Since she was a baby, Riley has attended singing events and has even taken on the role of a song leader, keeping the rhythm and guiding the group.
Remembrance Through Music
Oscar McGuire often leads songs that remind him of singers he has lost. He finds solace in these melodies, stating, “I get a message out of the songs. Most all of them come from verses in the Bible.” His heartfelt connection to the music makes it a more impactful experience than listening to a sermon.
Embracing the Tradition
Nathan Rees, a curator at the Sacred Harp museum, initially approached this tradition with skepticism. After reluctantly attending his first singing at his parents’ urging, he quickly fell in love with the experience. Now an active member, Rees is deeply involved in the community, taking pride in his contributions to preserving this cherished heritage.
Sacred Harp singing remains a vital and vibrant expression of faith for many, fostering community ties and creating lasting memories. As new editions are released and new generations of singers emerge, this tradition promises to endure, embodying the values of faith, heritage, and unity.
