Health Protection & COVID
Singing loudly together in close proximity is excellent for wellbeing. But it’s also a quick way to spread germs. So if you’re snotty or coughing, please just stay at home.
Testing for COVID or Flu is not mandatory at this event, after the community vote on the issue at the 2025 Convention business meeting.
However, we do expect all singers to take very seriously their personal responsibility for not bringing ANY transmissable illness to the singing.
Please DO NOT attend if you are experiencing any symptoms of cough, common cold, COVID, Flu, or other infectious illness.
Conduct
We want to ensure a welcoming, inclusive and safe environment. We ask everyone to treat each other with kindness, respect the conventions of the tradition and strive for harmony. We won’t tolerate bullying, harassment or disruption. If any individual is not acting in an appropriate manner they will be asked to leave, and may be subject to exclusion from future events.
Read our FAQs, Access & Attitudes page and What is Sacred Harp to help you anticipate what to expect at Sacred Harp singing.
The UK Sacred Harp Convention Standing Committee is working on a new Code of Conduct, which we will publish here and on the UKSH website. Everyone who attends will be invited to read it and required to abide by it.
Your wellbeing
Sacred Harp singing can be emotionally draining. It is a powerful form of expression and you may witness and experience strong feelings. We will provide a quiet space where you can rest.
It can be physically demanding. Keep well hydrated, and take a break from the singing if you need it. Sing at a level that’s comfortable for your voice. If it’s so loud that your ears hurt, move further back.
You’re in charge of your own self-care: if you need to wear ear defenders, wear them. If you need time out, take it. If your pronouns are important to you, pop them on your name badge.
We’re all here in a spirit of goodwill – if you are willing to say what you need, we will do our best to accommodate you.
Community
We are an inclusive community. We can enjoy singing together without believing the same things or living the same way. The unwritten rule of Sacred Harp etiquette is to avoid discord and focus on what unites us.
Please respect other people’s needs, boundaries, and beliefs. This includes labelling food correctly for different dietary requirements or allergies, checking if it’s ok to hug, using preferred pronouns, keeping pathways clear for wheelchair users to move around freely.
Sacred Harp comes from a Christian tradition. Today, people of all faiths and none sing Sacred Harp. But in keeping with tradition, prayers are said at formal singings.
Read our Access & Attitudes page, FAQs and What is Sacred Harp to help you anticipate what to expect.
Manchester Sacred Harp 