Shape note singing in Maine

Subject: Shape note singing in Maine
From: GUEST,Bob Baldwin
Date: 15 Jul 00 - 10:03 AM

I'm looking for people in Maine who like to sing shape note hymns. I recently began going to singings in Belfast, Me., but the group could certainly use more singers. I have heard that the group in Portland is somewhat larger, but still rather small. My guess is that there are many more people in Maine who would like to participate, or at least give it a try. Beginners are welcome. If you, or someone you know, lives in Maine and is interested, please let me know and I'll see that you get added to our mailing (and e-mailing) list.

Thanks, Bob Baldwin 207/586-6069

Subject: RE: Shape note singing in Maine
From: Walter Corey
Date: 15 Jul 00 - 11:00 AM

I was hoping to find an e-mail address for you. I did some shape-note singing in Connecticut when we lived there, and might be interested in doing it again. Belfast is a bit of a stretch from Kennebunk, but the Portland group might be a possibility. Do you have information on them?

Subject: RE: Shape note singing in Maine
From: GUEST,Bob Baldwin
Date: 15 Jul 00 - 11:08 AM

Walter -- I don't have info at hand on the Portland group, but if you send me your e-mail addy, I'll get it to you in the next day or two. My e-mail is [e-mail]

Subject: RE: Shape note singing in Maine
From: little john cameron
Date: 15 Jul 00 - 11:44 AM

Hi Bob. I have heard about this type of singing before but i don't know what it is.Could you enlighten me please?LJC.

Subject: RE: Shape note singing in Maine
From: GUEST,Bob Baldwin
Date: 15 Jul 00 - 12:29 PM

It's a form of 4-part choral singing that developed in America in the 17th and 18th centuries. It has survived primarily in the south. No accompanying instruments are used. Over the last few decades, this style of singing has become popular among many people in the north. Among those who sing this stuff today, the northern folkies probably outnumber the active southerners, but the southerners are still way better at it. The songs are mainly old, old hymns, but the singers, especially in the north, aren't necessarily interested in the words. What's really nifty are the archaic harmonies that make the hairs stand up on the back of yr neck. The most commonly used songbook is entitled, "The Sacred Harp," a reference to the human voice. For more info go to http://www.fasola.org

Subject: RE: Shape note singing in Maine
From: little john cameron
Date: 15 Jul 00 - 02:25 PM

Thanks Bob, i will check it out. LJC

Subject: RE: Shape note singing in Maine
From: kendall
Date: 16 Jul 00 - 04:19 AM

Winterbright will be on come monday..she knows about this.