Melodious Accord: A Concert of Praise
Master Chorale of Washington
Donald McCullough, Music Director
Alice Parker, Special Guest Conductor
This recording documents an extraordinary concert, intended to capture the spirit of shape note conventions, which are still held today in many parts of the country. Invited choirs joined the Master Chorale to perform Wesley, Idumea and Sweet Prospect, surrounding the audience at the Kennedy Center in Washington.
Shape-note singing is a distinctively American tradition that is enjoying a revival. Born from the desire to invigorate congregational singing, the shape-note tradition created its own musical notation, a robust singing style and a substantial collection of hymnody.
Melodious Accord: Harmonia Sacra tunes from Genuine Church Music
arranged by Alice Paker and conducted by Donald McCullough
I. Welcome
House of our God (Zion)
Lord, I approach they mercy-seat (Burford)
Come, ye disconsolate
II. Old Testament
Be joyful in God
The voice of my beloved sounds (Spring)
Guide me, O thou great Jehovah (Tamworth)
III. New Testament
When I survey the wondrous Cross (Retirement)
Come, O thou traveler unknown (Vernon)
O how happy are they (new Concord)
IV. Farewells
That glorious day is drawing nigh (Zion's Light)
How seet to reflect (Eden of Love)
How pleasant thus to dwell below (The Parting Hymn)
God moves in a mysterious way (Union)
Shape-Note hymns arranged & conducted by Alice Parker
Wesley
Idumea
Sweet Prospect
Wondrous Love
Hiding Place
His Voice as the Sound
