Continuity

For families, friends, churches and communities, the East Texas Convention and the 'Sacred Harp' provide continuity to the past – a place almost outside of time, where friend holds fellowship with friend, where friends above join in concert with friends below and all the saints terrestrial sing with those to glory gone; a place where Grandpa and Granny and Uncle Joe are remembered fondly, and some favorite aunt is always the best treble; a place where songs are known and loved for those who led and loved them; a place where one can travel back to memorable days of yore; a place that is as old as the book itself and as new as the modern conveniences and methods used by a small group to pull together a large event. In 'Sacred Harp' one finds the eternal standard of “how it used to be” seemingly never recreated, dwelling harmoniously yet paradoxically alongside the confident declaration that “it hasn’t changed a bit”. In a highly mobile society with a progressive lifestyle, 'Sacred Harp' provides an anchor to something sure and good in our past. -- From Approaching 150: a Brief History of the East Texas Musical Convention ISBN 1-59872-040-6