Religious Vocal Traditions
Sacred Singing: Context and Background
Shape note singing is based on a notational system developed in New England by early Colonial immigrants. At that point
few people had music reading or ear training skills that allowed them to follow the complex doxologies and contrapuntal
motifs common to sacred singing in Europe. The shape note system provided a shorthand to standard note reading.
Reading the diamond, triangle and wedged shaped notes church members more easily learn basic music skills and
establish a large repertoire of tunes. The system developed in more than one version and spread from New England to be
used extensively throughout the South and Midwest. Collections of tunes were often published at the expense of the
compiler, often a singing teacher or preacher, contained some rudiments of music and occasionally some original
compositions and selected secular songs. They were distributed regionally, and are well-known as the various "sacred
harps" in many states.
Sacred harp music, also common radio fare, was broadcast on the radio in St. Louis only a few decades ago. A revival
of interest occurring there and in Kansas City maintains the tradition of regular singings with guest leaders from outside
churches. The St. Louis Shape Note Singers make use of Missouri's own sacred harp compilation, The Missouri
Harmony, now republished a in a facsimile edition. More rare in some communities, singing is remembered from
childhood by singing leaders who nurture small shape note groups within the larger, regular congregations.
Program Offerings:
SHAPE NOTE SINGING
Shape note singing is demonstrated by family and members of the Church of God congregation from Springfield.
The music is very energetic and includes sacred and secular tunes drawn from Cornelius' Rudiments of Music used by the
leader as he grew up. The four vocal ranges are seated in separate sections, facing each other forming a square as they
sing the open harmonies and swinging rhythms which give this music its bold and haunting character. Presenting artist:
Johnny Elmore with family and friends
SPIRITUALS
A unique collection of family spirituals handed down from slave days is sung by Mrs. Ann Pittman with a
quiet voice, subtle rhythmic maneuvers, and the falling intonation of blues songs. This program presents a rarely heard
repertoire of family songs learned from Mrs. Pittman's grandmother. She deliberately retains original dialects making an
important linguistic link with earlier dialect forms. Mrs. Pittman is committed to letting audiences hear the versions sung in
the musical style and dialect which is as close as possible to the what she heard sung by her mother and grandmother. Symbols and metaphors are powerful teachers in these songs, as are the stories Mrs. Pittman tells of growing up in rural
Mississippi. Using modern vocabulary substitutions she demonstrates ways to maintain relevant meaning in the songs
without changing the basic message. Presenting artist: Ann Pittman
GOSPEL
Doris Frazier presents traditional African American gospel. Joined by a piano accompanist she brings a full
sound to the songs she sings and links them with the vocal appeals typical to their church context. Moving piano solos
provide transitions between vocal sections. Presenting artists: Doris Frazier with gospel piano accompanist
