What is Sacred Harp (shape-note) singing?

Shape note music is a 200-year-old, uniquely American style of hymn singing. This tradition is also known as Sacred Harp, after the title of the best-known shape note tunebook. These haunting 4-part harmonies are sung in powerful, exuberant style, with singers seated in an open square. We sing not for performance but for the joy of singing and the community of singers, to which newcomers are always welcome.

Georgia is in the middle of the traditional shape note heartland. The Sacred Harp was published in 1844 by Georgia residents B. F. White and E. J. King. Shape note singing survives as a living tradition in Georgia to this day. New singers from many different backgrounds are attracted to the powerful old songs and find that shape note singing is a release for the spirit and a lot of fun.

If you have not tried shape note singing before, see our what-to-expect page. For general information, see Fasola.org or SacredHarp.com. But The Sacred Harp is not for reading about. It is for singing. Find a singing and raise your voice.

Where can I learn more?

• Information about the United Sacred Harp Convention, September 13-14
• What to expect at a Sacred Harp Singing
• Sacred Harp Singing at fasola.org

What does it sound like?

Last updated August 30, 2025.