Indy Sacred Harp is a shape-note group that sings from the 1991 Sacred Harp and the Shenandoah Harmony. We are a volunteer-run, community singing and social group.
We invite you to sing with us!
Every March we host the Swarens Memorial Higher Ground all-day sing.
We also sing twice a month at two different locations. Our singing events are free and open to all. No singing experience needed and song books are available to borrow.
1st Saturdays 1-3pm at All Saints Episcopal Church
1559 Central Ave, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202
Free street parking; enter through main doors to the sanctuary
3rd Tuesdays 7-9pm at North Meadow Circle of Friends
1710 N Talbott St, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202
Free parking in large lot south of the meeting house; enter through front or back doors
Sometimes we need to cancel or move our singings. Please check our Facebook page or our mailing list to confirm. You can also contact Sarah Lynne at sahra.lynne@gmail.com, or Thomas Smith at thomathom@gmail.com, with any questions.
Shape-note singing is an American, acappella choral tradition with roots that stretch back into the 18th century. We sing four part harmony, printed with shaped note heads which are designed to help with sight reading music. The tunes are characterized by open harmonies and a raw, powerful sound. They are paired with sacred poetry inspired by Christian and Jewish scriptures, the natural world, death, love, hope and despair.
The tradition of shape-note singing is marked by hospitality and diversity. Singings include people from all political and religious perspectives and we focus on our shared love of singing (and the delicious food that often accompanies it). Everyone is welcome to join us (yes even if you can’t sing, even if you aren’t religious, even if you think you are too young or too old, even if *whatever excuse you just came up with!*). This group is made up of whoever shows up to sing. We hope that will include you. Come and experience this distinctive and spirited style of sacred music!
Find updates about singings and other random shape-note content on our facebook page and instagram
