Shape Note Singing In The Berkshire Foothills

LITCHFIELD — Jim and Paula Picton will host an all-day shape note singing session at Milton Public Hall on Saturday, November 7, from 10 am until 4 pm.

“We expect to draw singers from throughout New England, but are hoping to increase interest in this music in our local area as well,” said Mrs Picton.

“Shape note singing is four-part unaccompanied singing sung full-voiced and with exuberance,” she explained. “[It is] a uniquely American style of unaccompanied singing that dates from before the American Revolution but is alive and well today.

“We sing for the joy of singing and the community of singers, to which newcomers are always welcome, regardless of their singing ability or any formal or informal spirituality,” she continued. “You are welcome to come sing, or listen, for as little or long as you like.”

Singers are seated in an open square facing each other, not an audience. Participants will sing from the Sacred Harp, and loaner books will be available at the singing.

There is no charge for the program.

Milton Public Hall is at 538 Milton Road in Litchfield.

Contact Jim or Paula Picton, 860-868-0086, for additional information.