Have you been thinking about all the things you have to do this summer?  Do you wish you could go back to a simpler time, when life moved at a slower pace?

For at least one day, you can do that at a free all-day shape note singing.  Join us on June 10th in Maquoketa, Iowa, at the Salvation Army Citadel, next to Horseshoe Pond Park on S. Main, where we'll be singing between 10 and 3:30 (with a free and bountiful lunch provided).

This style of singing in 4-part harmony was very popular in Colonial and pioneer America.  Back then, people sang together as a regular part of their daily lives.  Today's singers keep that tradition alive by welcoming everyone who wants to sing hymns and patriotic songs, no matter whether they can read music or sing well.

Shape note singing gets its name from the way the music is written, as the note "heads" are printed in various shapes.  If you can read traditional music, you can read shape note music.  And if you can't read music, the other singers will carry you along until you figure out what's going on.

The singing is loud and passionate, the folks are friendly, and you are more than welcome to join in the singing.  Admission is free, and books are provided for use.  For more information about shape note singing in general, visit www.fasola.org.  For more information about the Maquoketa  River All-Day Singing, contact Annie Grieshop at 563-926-2353 or 563-920-4568.  We hope to see you there!

For more information about shape note singing in general, visit the Fasola website.