Capital City Shape Note Singing

About this singing

Begun in 1986. Didn't happen in 2020, 2021, 2022.

Art Deason sent in a report about this singing (1994), which appeared in Christian Harmony Notes (August 9, 1994):

EIGHTH ANNUAL CAPITOL CITY SING
including
SCHOOL OF MUSIC FOR 3 GREAT NIGHTS

OLD ALABAMA TOWN—GRANGE HALL—MONTGOMERY, AL.

This year was no exception. All past years have been good. However, comments were made that this was the best one yet!

Twenty six pupils were enrolled during the school of music which began on Monday night July 18 continuing through Wednesday night. The climax for the annual event was Thursday all day with "Dinner on the Ground".

Singers present represented four different shape note books. Namely, the 1991 revision of the Sacred Harp featuring four notes in the Scale. The Christian Harmony book featuring a shaped note for each of the seven sounds in the scale. The B.F. White or Cooper book, and the Wire Grass Sacred Harp, also featuring four shaped notes for the scale.

Most singers who came live within 100 miles from Montgomery. However, one good gentleman came from Texas. Oftentimes singers come from other states.

It is very fulfilling and rewarding to note the interest and desire of singers to keep the old tradition of shape note singing alive and well. So much so, during a committee meeting, a suggestion was made to give to those present an opportunity to express themselves about the possibility to organize a Shape Note Sing in the Capitol City. More than 25 names were placed on paper signifying their willingness and support to lend a helping hand. Jim Carnes who lives in Montgomery, is ready, willing and able, assisted by Hank Willett, Director of the Alabama Center for Traditional Culture, and Joey Brackner, Folk Life Manager for Alabama Council on The Arts, agreed to formulate plans and make announcement real soon.

I tell you what—everybody should attend one of these "Get To Gethers" just once. I believe you would be hooked for life. We have such a rich heritage. Singing the old songs left us by our forefathers; blending our voices with others, brings joy, warmth, and a kindred spirit of fellowship In closing, let's keep the old tradition alive. We need your suggestions, your participation and your prayers.

Art Deason, Reporter