"The Sacred Harp"

"The Sacred Harp" is a traditional American shape-note hymn book first published in 1844, used for community singing. It features a collection of sacred songs, mainly hymns and spirituals, designed to be sung at informal, participatory gatherings. The music employs a system of shape notes—different shapes representing different pitches—making it accessible for group singers without formal training. Known for its powerful, resonant choral sound and rich harmonic textures, "The Sacred Harp" fosters communal worship and singing as a shared spiritual and cultural experience. It remains popular among revivalist and folk music communities today.