Learn shape note singing in Roanoke on 6/27
Springhouse School (144 Silver Maple Ln NE, Pilot, VA)
6:30-8:30pm
We first experimented with this form in 2019 in grant funded project from Virginia Humanities. Inviting singers to call thematic songs and share with the class why they chose the particular tune.
This year we are inviting reflections on "The Space Between."
Each time we gather in the square, in some ways we find ourselves in time outside of time, in the space between. There is the interval between two notes that might evoke a certain feel; a well placed rest in the music; the collective inhale before the sound; the breaks between sessions where singers caffeinate and reconnect; the experience of a thin veil during the memorial lesson as we call to mind those who have died; the time between singings where the rest of life happens outside the square; the space between our bodies where the harmonies resonate; and so much more.
At this sing and share, participants are invited to consider this theme, choose two songs, and share some brief remarks in the space between.
Springhouse School (144 Silver Maple Ln NE, Pilot, VA)
10:00am - 3:30pm
Registration begins at 9:30am.
We'll be singing out of three books: The Sacred Harp (2025 edition), The Shenandoah Harmony, and The Valley Pocket Harmonist. Last Year, people were asked to choose just 2 books they'd like to lead from to help the arranging committee, and we may continue that system again.
Accessibility: Please see our Accessibility Page for information on this location, including for parking. Food will be set up in the main hall for lunch.
Accommodations: We can offer accommodations for singers coming from out of town to Floyd. If you're taking the train in (the Northeast Regional Amtrak line ends in Roanoke), there is also the possibility of staying with singers in Roanoke.
Food: There'll be a potluck dinner on the grounds -- bring food if you can! There is a full-kitchen on site (fridge, stove, and oven).
Parking: The parking lot is unpaved, and you may need to park on the grass knoll. There is also a steep, unpaved incline to get to the parking lot. Carpooling is encouraged!
Social: Will be at Chris & Roxanne's house afterwards. Address will be shared at the event.
For questions or requests for accommodations, contact Chris Wolf at 276-229-2395 or email at floydshapenote at gmail dot com.
Floyd County is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains' New River Valley, just off of highway 81, and is known for its natural beauty and strong music and literary scene.
There are places to camp and lodge surrounding the town of Floyd -- visitors can also choose to stay in the nearby towns of Christiansburg and Blacksburg (20-40 minutes away), or the nearby city of Roanoke (about 1 hour away), which is also the line end for Amtrak's Northeast Regional.