Manchester Sacred Harp

Join Manchester Sacred Harp for an afternoon of uplifting social singing. Our door is open – sit and sing with us if you want to give it a try – or pop in to listen.

Sacred Harp event dates

All sessions are free to attend.
Pop in to listen or feel free to sit and sing with the group if you would like to give it a try.

Upcoming dates:

Sunday 5 May, 2pm-4.30pm – Location: The Whitworth

To book your place or ask questions, please contact: sacredharpmanchester@gmail.com

Future dates will be posted here closer to the time.

General information about the singing sessions:

Participating is FREE. There’s no obligation to stay for the whole session. It is very useful to have an idea of numbers though, If possible please let us know you're coming by email: sacredharpmanchester@gmail.com or let us know on Facebook: Manchester Sacred Harp.

We can usually accommodate everyone, however, please note that seating is limited. Please arrive early to avoid disappointment.

For the best first-time experience, we recommend arriving at the start of a session. If you wish to sing, we'll aim to seat you near someone experienced and make sure you have access to a songbook, please ask for details at the session.

History of Sacred Harp Singing

Sacred Harp is an American choral tradition dating back to the 1800s. With its roots in the hymns and folk tunes of the time, it was created as an accessible way of singing in four-part harmony.

The four voice parts (treble, alto, tenor, bass) sit facing each other in a square formation, singing into the centre of the room. Together the massed voices make a massive sound.

Sacred Harp is sung for pleasure, not performance. It's about connection rather than perfection – so we don't practice, we just sing.

All voices are welcome, no experience is needed. People from all faiths and none are welcome, our focus is purely on the camaraderie of making music together.

Image: Manchester Sacred Harp Singers. Photo: Joyce Smith. Courtesy, Manchester Sacred Harp