Potomac River Shape Note Singing Convention!
All are welcome to the 2026 Potomac River Shape-Note Singing Convention! Singing from the Shenandoah Harmony & the Sacred Harp (1991) -- both books all day, in alternating sessions.
Saturday, April 11th, 10:30am-4:00pm; registration begins at 10:00am.
Church of the Ascension Silver Spring Parish Hall, 633 Sligo Avenue, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Please bring a dish to share for a potluck dinner (lunch) on the grounds around 12:30 pm. Note: microwave available, but no oven.
Parish Hall entrance is down a short path to the right of the main entrance. Accessible entrances available. Parking is available at East Silver Spring Elementary School (behind the church).
*Bonus Saturday Night Sing During Social!*
7:00-9:00pm from the Valley Pocket Harmonist, in Brentwood, MD. Email jonathaneennewton@gmail.com for address (will be announced at singing)
Sunday, April 12th, 10:30am-3:30pm, registration to begin at 9:30am
Lacey Woods Park rear picnic shelter, 1200 N George Mason Dr., Arlington, VA 22205
Please bring a dish to share for a potluck dinner (lunch) on the grounds around 12:30 pm. Note: no power or refrigeration.
This is an outdoor, covered location. We will sing rain or shine!
Street parking is available. Restrooms, children’s playground, and public water fountain on-site (50-yard walk on paved path). No electricity.
Drop off: https://maps.app.goo.gl/YUgPnJKdbtcBknzt7 (or enter at other end of park to avoid stairs).
If you are feeling ill, please do not come to the singings. Wearing a mask is optional but encouraged.
For general information, please contact jonathaneennewton@gmail.com or nina.burris2014@gmail.com.
Shape note singing is an American a cappella tradition with roots in the Colonial period. Characterized by open 4-part harmonies and a powerful sound, shape note singing is music designed primarily for participation, rather than for performance. For more information about The Sacred Harp, The Shenandoah Harmony, or shape note singing, visit fasola.org or shenandoahharmony.com
