Shape Note Singing | Ypsilanti

Every 2nd and 4th Tuesday, 7-9pm. Off Center at Riverside Arts Center. Free to attend.

Once described as “the Metal of Early-American Music,” Shape Note Singing is a community-focused, practice-based singing style that uses notated noteheads with distinct shapes to make learning music accessible to everyone. The result is a bold, resonant sound that fills the room and connects singers through shared rhythm and its unique harmony.

Our group meets twice a month to sing from The Sacred Harp (2025) and The Shenandoah Harmony, celebrating a living tradition that’s as spirited as it is welcoming.

Newcomers are encouraged to join us every 2nd Tuesday for a workshop-style deep dive into the history and technique of Shape Note Singing.

No experience required—just bring your voice and curiosity!

If you don’t have a copy of The Sacred Harp, don’t worry! We’ll have a few loaner copies available to use and purchase.

Note that though much of the content of the music is based in Christianity, the practice itself is secular.

The Sacred Harp is a shape note hymnal that has been in continuous publication since 1844. Originally rooted in the American South, the Sacred Harp tradition has spread across the country and around the world.

For lots of juicy info on Shape Note Singing, visit fasolamichigan.org and fasola.org

The Sacred Harp is a shape note hymnal that has been in continuous publication since 1844. Originally rooted in the American South, the Sacred Harp tradition has spread across the country and around the world.

For lots of juicy info on Shape Note Singing, including information about other local shape note singing groups visit fasolamichigan.org and fasola.org

The Ypsi Shape Note Group is an offshoot of the Ann Arbor Sacred Harp Group.

Ann Arbor has the longest tradition of Shape Note Singing of any active group in the state. singing from 1-4 pm on the Second Sunday of each month. All are welcome—no experience necessary, and loaner books are available.

The Ark (performance venue)
316 S, Main St.
Ann Arbor, MI