Annual Singing at Old Courthouse

Last year an old tradition was revived at The Old Courthouse on the Square in Blairsville: A singing convention was presented by the Union County Singing Convention and the Union County Historical Society.  Eighteen people were inducted into the Union County Pioneers Hall of Shaped-note music.  All who attended agreed that it was a rewarding experience from the singing to the induction ceremonies.

This year’s program will be held  on June 26 at 2:00 PM.  The program will begin with the induction ceremonies for the people who will be honored this year as Pioneers in Shaped-note music.  After the induction ceremonies, the afternoon will be filled with singing which is basically what it’s all about.

Especially in the southeastern United States there is a renewed interest in the tradition of gospel shaped-note singing.  The Union County Singing Convention has helped keep the tradition alive by holding an annual singing school at Piedmont College with a week of classes and singing.  Earlier this year the Union County Historical Society presented a singing school taught by Jack Parler. and from that school a singing practice is held every third Thursday in the Old Courthouse.  More information about singing schools can be found on the websites of the Union County Singing Convention or the Union County HIstorical Society.

Being able to read shaped notes isn’t the only way to enjoy the music.  Most people simply enjoy listening to it. It is contagious, and many people want to become a part of it after listening to the great harmonies.  There is a great joy in being part of a tradition that is as old as the county, itself.  As with all of the presentations by the Union County Historical Society, there is no admission charge.  Everyone is invited.