Rolling Harmony is a vocal group of choir leaders and singers from the South West brought together by Jane Harris, Director of Songways. They were thrilled to perform for the first time in the beautiful setting and acoustics of Holy Trinity, Bradford on Avon.

The Rolling Harmony concert was a joy, with a full and appreciative audience. Songs with vibrant rhythms, compelling lyrics and interweaving vocal lines, rooted in English and American harmony singing traditions. The programme included the world premiere of a new song, Carry us home, by Rolling Harmony bass, Ed Bersey, original compositions by Jane Harris and US composers, and traditional songs specially arranged by Rolling Harmony. The group added instruments on some of the songs, including violin, guitar and banjo, making a richly varied and enjoyable programme.

Comments from our audience:

Fabulous
Fantastic evening
A wonderful, uplifting experience
Amazing – brilliant
Out of this world

Sixty singers gathered for a joyous harmony singing workshop in the afternoon led by Jane Harris, Claire Stronach and Clara Atkins. The three leaders co-led the workshop with other singers from Rolling Harmony mixed in with the group, supporting each of the voice parts. After a good warm-up, Claire led the group in a quirky Ukrainian song, interweaving the voices with three rhythmic parts, with singers moving around while singing – great fun. The beautiful English folk song Bushes and Briars followed led by Clara, with Jane and Claire also teaching voice parts. We also added a violin drone and double bass, as in Rolling Harmony’s version of the song. The final song was Hope Lingers On, a wonderful song of hope, strength and solidarity by Lyssa Schneckenberger from Vermont, led by Jane with Clare and Clara teaching and supporting parts. It was fabulous to hear all the voices ringing out in Holy Trinity.

Comments from workshop participants:

What a privilege to have three experienced and skilled teachers
Excellent, such fun, great teaching
Loved the choice of songs
Enjoyed every moment
Lovely session – you all worked so well together

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