Sacred Harp Singing Returns To Alpharetta

ALPHARETTA, GA — One of Alpharetta's oldest traditions that's become an important part of its heritage will be held this weekend.

The annual June Singing kicks off at 10 a.m. Sunday, June 10 at Alpharetta City Hall. The city notes this event was popular throughout North Georgia when mostly farm families would come to Alpharetta to spend several days engaged in shape note singing.

Formally known as Sacred Harp singing, this method uses four-part harmonies, and the music is written in shape notes, so each pitch is represented by a shape and a name. Instead of “do-re-mi,” Sacred Harp uses “fa-sol-la.” For example, “fa” is represented by a triangle, “la” by a square.

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Singers take turns leading the group with a simplified form of conducting. The system was designed for people who did not know how to read sheet music.

The event will be held in the rotunda at City Hall to take advantage of its incredible acoustic qualities. Following the singing, a covered dish lunch will be held right next to the rotunda.

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