About us
Check our website at bay area sacred harp. Also check out our active facebook group
We are diverse and enthusiastic group of singers who exclusively sing sacred harp music. You love to sing? A curious soul eager to try something new? You like to shout? Our community celebrates the joy of shared tunes, finding harmony in the melodies that echo the sacred.
Sacred Harp, a vibrant tradition of shape note singing, is a dynamic form of congregational and community music rooted in American history. Dating back to the 18th century, it employs unique geometric symbols, or shape notes, to facilitate group singing. Participants, both musicians and non-musicians, unite in spirited four-part harmony, creating a powerful and inclusive experience. The Sacred Harp hymnals, such as "The Sacred Harp" and "The Christian Harmony," showcase a diverse range of hymns and tunes. Characterized by its rich history, democratic ethos, and emphasis on communal participation, Sacred Harp stands as a living testament to the enduring power of shared music.
Beyond the music, we delve into the profound—memento mori, a reflection on mortality, and the evocative power of music therapy. Our appreciation for the performing arts extends to the live music experience, where every note becomes a shared moment in time.
We don't do rehearsals. We practice a song once, sounding out the notes, and then enthusiastically singing the lyrics. The ethos is one of participation and community. From time to time we have singing conventions, characterized by food and song.
Upcoming events
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Shape Note Music Singing School
3630 Telegraph Ave, 3630 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, CA, USA singing weekend starts with a singing school! More details here
SINGING SCHOOL ON FRIDAY NIGHT
On Friday April 24, 2026, we are delighted to host traveling singer Deidra Montgomery for a singing school also at the Oakland Grove from 7-9pm. Doors at 6:45pm.
Deidra Montgomery is a Rhode Island-based Sacred Harp singer, singing school teacher, and composer. A singer since 2006, Deidra has taught singing schools across the United States. Their song MECHANICVILLE is published in The Sacred Harp: 2025 Edition. Deidra’s goal in teaching singing schools is to make sure everyone has the tools, knowledge, and awareness they need to have the best experience possible at singings.
Tentatively titled “Singing Songs Together,” this singing school/workshop will explore the elements that go into singing songs at big and small singings — things like what the text and symbols on the page can tell us, what considerations a person might make in choosing and leading songs, and the breadth of roles that contribute to the most successful singingsCOVID POLICY
Please stay home if you’re feeling any symptoms of illness! We’ll sing with you next time.
Friday night: Testing recommended, but not required.2 attendees20th Annual Golden Gate All-Day Singing
3630 Telegraph Ave, 3630 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, CA, USA singing weekend is upon us! More details here
MAIN SINGING ALL DAY SATURDAY
All are welcome, admission is FREE, singing from The Sacred Harp: 2025 Edition, loaner books available! This is a community singing event – not a performance – and singers of all ability levels are encouraged to join. Please bring potluck dishes to share for dinner on the grounds as you’re able. There will be a social immediately after the singing at a neighborhood bar in Temescal.SINGING SCHOOL ON FRIDAY NIGHT
On Friday April 24, 2026, we are delighted to host traveling singer Deidra Montgomery for a singing school also at the Oakland Grove from 7-9pm. Doors at 6:45pm.
Deidra Montgomery is a Rhode Island-based Sacred Harp singer, singing school teacher, and composer. A singer since 2006, Deidra has taught singing schools across the United States. Their song MECHANICVILLE is published in The Sacred Harp: 2025 Edition. Deidra’s goal in teaching singing schools is to make sure everyone has the tools, knowledge, and awareness they need to have the best experience possible at singings.
Tentatively titled “Singing Songs Together,” this singing school/workshop will explore the elements that go into singing songs at big and small singings — things like what the text and symbols on the page can tell us, what considerations a person might make in choosing and leading songs, and the breadth of roles that contribute to the most successful singingsCOVID POLICY
Please stay home if you’re feeling any symptoms of illness! We’ll sing with you next time.
Friday night: Testing recommended, but not required.
Saturday: Testing required. A test from either Friday or Saturday is required and will be checked at registration. Come early to grab an extra test at the door if you need one.
Sunday: Testing recommended, but not required.2 attendees
Past events
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