Minutes of Sacred Harp Singings

The eighth annual Sacred Harp singing in Oberlin, Ohio was held at Christ Episcopal Church on Saturday before the second Sunday in September was called to order at 10:00 a.m. Songs listed by name are from Oberlin Harmony.

The following officers were elected or appointed to serve: Treasurer—Joe Todd; Chaplain—Jane Wells; Food—Jane Wells and Beth Todd; Secretary—Charles Wells.

Because most of the early arrivals had never sung Sacred Harp music before, we began with several songs for discussion and practice: 49t, 159, 49b, 34b, 128, 107, 569 (t? b?).

Leaders: Jane Wells 503, 171; Beth Todd 327, 146; Gerry Hoffman 47t, 42.

RECESS

Joe Todd called the class to order with 40. Leaders: Joe Todd 65, 133; Charles Wells “Ten Thousand Charms”, 52 (t? b?); Jane Wells “Bosold”, 80 (t? b?); Beth Todd 501, 112; Gerry Hoffman 39t, 142; Brian How 106, 114.

RECESS

Charles Wells called the class to order leading 155. Leaders: Joe Todd 312b, 163b; Charles Wells “New Orleans”, “Muhaiyadeen”; Jane Wells “Captain Kidd”, “Millbrook”; Beth Todd 284, 231 (by request). Jane Wells led the class in thanksgiving for the noon meal.

LUNCH

Beth Todd called the class to order with 68 (t? b?). Leaders: Avery Book 47b, “Lisbon”; Gerry Hoffman “Mount Hope”, 36b; Brian How 66, 504; Charles Wells “Harkness”, “Garvin”; Jane Wells 313b, 179; Beth Todd “I Won’t Turn Back”, 388.

RECESS

The class was called to order. Leaders: Avery Book 410t, 181; Gerry Hoffman “Consolation”, 209; Brian How 147t, 148; Joe Todd 35, 124; the class sang the following songs by request: Beth Todd 178, 168; Avery Book 203.

Announcements were made. Charles Wells led 347 as the closing song, and Jane Wells offered the closing prayer. The class was dismissed.

Secretary—Charles Wells.