Phoenix Fasola meets the Second Saturday afternoon each month beginning November 14th.   

What do I need to know to come to a sing?  

  by Kathy Garrett

The tradition of Shape Note singing is one of inclusion and extension.  We enjoy all singers no matter their prior experience or skills.  You do not need to know how to read music.  One of the charms of this music is the shapes.  The shapes help singers quickly learn pitches and melodies, and you will pick up the ability to read quickly.  We happily include all and invite all to join.  We also extend our sings by traveling to Tucson once a month to join their singing group.  

The music itself is an early form of group singing and reaches back to early American traditions.  We use a song book titled The Sacred Harp which was first published in 1844.  Many of the songs are 1700's.  We have loaner books if you need one. We also sell the books if you decide you want to join the group.   

The music style is lively, somber, joyful, uplifting and deeply sorrowful.  It reflects the early American experience.  Most of the lyrics are Christian, some are attempting to render good advice (The evil of drink, the need for temperance) but all of it is great fun.  

We are not a religious organization, however we do seek to maintain the historical accuracy of the music tradition.  This includes memorial sings, annual sings, and the tradition of taking 'turns' in leading out in a song.  You do not have to lead out but you will notice the leader changes from song to song. 

I serve light refreshments after the sing and we sometimes enjoy sitting, visiting and have been known to break out is song once again after eating.  

We proudly welcome all people to join us, regardless of race, religion, lifestyle or status.  

Children are welcome with a responsible adult.  

The only other thing you need is a map, which I will send to you once you have completed the contact form.  It is safe and completely confidential and I NEVER share your information with anyone without your permission . 

Sings are held at the home of Kathy and Mike Garrett (address below) on the second Saturday of the month from 2 to 5 PM.  

We attend the Tucsonfasola.com sing on the First Saturday of the month which also begins at 2 PM.  

Contact Me:
Kathy and Mike Garrett
104 E La JOlla Drive Tempe AZ  85282
(480) 296-1025 | kidtroll2@cox.net