“Blessed be the tie that binds”: community and spirituality among Sacred Harp singers

Abstract

Sacred Harp music creates a ritual space; participation leads to community among people who differ in notable ways. Southern singers are mostly based in rural Baptist churches where families have sung for generations; northern singers are often based in a college and folk revival milieu. A set of common practices, experiences, and commitments creates ties and loyalties among singers that can transcend sharp differences and can be more important than ties within local social and religious communities.