Rather, the singers on these recordings still meet regularly in little churches across the state for all-day singings and dinners on the ground. And that's the lovely part of the story. These dedicated singers have sustained the tradition of Sacred Harp singing through some lean times. Some of the new supporters of Sacred Harp music have links with the old tradition through their families, churches, and communities. Many others come from out of the South, drawn by the haunting tunes, the wild harmonies and the poetry of the music.
Singers vocalize the notes to the tune first, then proceed with the lyrical verses.
Individual singers take turns selecting and leading songs. Participation and fellowship is the order of the day. Many singings and singing schools take place throughout the year. Mount Pleasant Home Baptist Church near Fultondale, Alabama. This will be the fiftieth anniversary of folklorist Alan Lomax's field recording of the same singing.