A special singing event in the glorious open space of Bath Abbey, led by Jane Harris, Director of Songways. Sixty singers gathered for the event, with singers from Manchester, London, Nottingham, Cornwall, Hereford and Bristol joining many local singers from the Bath area.
Beginning with single tones we listened to the amazing harmonics created by the building. Jane then led the group in her own newly composed round, In beauty may I stand, which we sang end to end, and then walking between each other – a wonderful experience. Jane then taught the classic gospel song, Shine on me, building up the rich harmonies phrase by phrase, and we savoured the sound as each voice part took its turn to be surrounded by the other singers. After a break, the lights were dimmed and candles were lit, and Jane led a group improvisation, with singers held in the group sound and the exceptional acoustics, creating a collective sense of stillness and peace. We ended the evening with Jane leading her song In the beauty of the world find rest and be free, gathered in the nave around a pool of candlelight.
Comments from singers:
Beautiful atmosphere, space and sound creation
Perfect choice of songs
Absolutely beautiful
Wonderfully mindful experience in beautiful surroundings
An incredible way to explore the space, sound and harmonics – tonic for the soul
FUTURE SOUL SOUNDINGS
Wells Cathedral and Chapter House
Saturday 29 January 2022 7:30 – 9:30pm
A donation was made from the proceeds of the event to FareShare South West.