March 12 Sacred Harp Singing | CANCELED

Sacred Harp singing is a uniquely American tradition that brings communities together to sing four-part hymns and anthems. It is a proudly inclusive and democratic part of our shared cultural heritage.

We sing loudly together in very close proximity and also share food.

Many singing organizers are taking pre-emptive action and canceling upcoming events, whether they be annual conventions expected to draw a hundred singers, or small weekly and monthly gatherings of just a dozen or fewer.

The 40th Annual Vermont All-Day Singing has been canceled.

The CDC says, "Everyone can do their part to help us respond to this emerging public health threat:

• Individuals and communities should familiarize themselves with recommendations to protect themselves and their communities from getting and spreading respiratory illnesses like COVID-19.
• Older people and people with severe chronic conditions should take special precautions because they are at higher risk of developing serious COVID-19 illness."

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I don't feel great about exposing our singers, or other members of our community who share our singing space and who may be more vulnerable to coronoavirus due to weakened immune systems, to any unnecessary risk.

Therefore, I've decided to cancel tonight's singing. 



Stay tuned for information on our next singing, currently scheduled for March 26th at the Jackson Old Library.

In other news, I just stumbled upon perhaps the weirdest instance of "Sacred Harp as Art" I've seen in awhile.  Check out our Vermonter pals Scott, Moira, Elizabeth (I haven't met her before) and Kerry singing Idumea in a wind tunnel.  I think this is what it feels like when Goaty sings in your face.

Stay healthy, friends.  If you need hand washing inspiration, I recommend singing  verses 1 and 4 of page 341 in the Sacred Harp as you wash your hands with soap and warm water. 
"He met the contagion and sank to the tomb..."

Take good care!
Carly