shape-note singing

American  

[sheyp-noht] / ˈʃeɪpˌnoʊt /

noun

1. a traditional style of a capella singing using shape-note notation.

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Etymology

Origin of shape-note singing

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

She added she likes to watch videos of people shape-note singing on YouTube, both for enjoyment and for guidance.

From Washington Times • Jun. 2, 2017

Since shape-note singing uses syllables instead of specific notes, the scale is somewhat more fluid, but the group still hits the same note to start.

From Washington Times • Jun. 2, 2017

Canonical works by Copland and Bernstein and pieces by rising Brooklyn composers mingle with traditional shape-note singing, jazz and hip-hop, all of it integral to the orchestra’s work, rather than treated as fringe programming.

From New York Times • Oct. 1, 2011

The choir sang with buoyant pulse, crisp diction and a polished sound far removed from the ecstatic and raw style typical of shape-note singing.

From New York Times • Dec. 7, 2010