We love to sing old hymns in parts around here. A capella singing is part of my morning time routine with the kids, and one of the simple pieces that make up the whole of our family culture. It has endured as an ongoing joy through some changes--a sweet soprano leaving home, and a clear-as-a-bell alto turning bass :).

I was browsing around Sacred Harp websites today looking for inspiration. The harmonies and themes in these old southern tunes thrill even us of the very North. Though I wasn't privileged to be raised in the singing school, shaped note tradition, I'm drawn to the beauty of what I've heard, and would love to know more.

One of the wish list items here is the DVD documentary, called Awake My Soul, the story of Sacred Harp. While reading on their webpage, I ran across a modern [very. an indie rock band, unknown to me, performs it] interpretation of a song called David's Lamentation (Sacred Harp 268). Wow. These guys know how to lament! It was beautiful, haunting, and deeply moving. Now, it isn't a traditional a cappella hymn, sung old style (I know that's where I started, but I've segued now to my surprise 'find'). It's kind of edgy, possibly way too much so for a purist and way too Sacred Harp for others? I don't know--my tastes are eclectic, but I found the combination of the scriptural words depicting David's grief over Absalom and the music to be breathtaking. And the juxtaposition of the modern music with bits of real sacred harp singing was very effective. Here's the link, listen and weep: David's Lamentation

photo by Will...great-great grandma's methodist episcopal hymnal