On July 19th, the historic Newbury Center Town House was filled with the joyous and resonant voices of singers from across the generations, coming together to celebrate the enduring musical legacy of Jeremiah Ingalls. The event was a beautiful gathering of community members—both young adults and seasoned singers—who united in harmony to bring to life the rich tradition of shape note singing that Ingalls helped shape over 200 years ago. Special thanks to Justin Squizzero for coordinating the event!

A heartfelt thank you goes out to all the singers who traveled near and far to join in the four-part harmonies. Your dedication and passion created a truly special atmosphere, enriching the event with voices from across the region and making the music come alive in a way that only a united chorus can. Newbury, Vermont, is proud to be a part of this unique art!

As the voices rose in unison, the grand and time-honored walls of the Town House seemed to come alive, carrying the powerful, melodious sound through its wooden beams and plaster ceilings with remarkable clarity. The unique acoustics of this cherished space enhanced every note, creating an immersive musical experience that echoed not only within the room but beyond, reaching into the heart of Newbury’s Center and its surrounding community.

The singers blended their voices with enthusiasm and reverence, weaving intricate harmonies that spoke to both the past and present. The day was filled with moments of joyful noise and heartfelt connection, as the group shared tunebooks, learned new songs, and honored the enduring spirit of the shape note tradition.

For hours, the community’s voices melded into a vibrant, living chorus that brought the history of the town—and of Jeremiah Ingalls’ musical contributions—into sharp, joyful focus. It was a powerful testament to the strength of community, the bonds forged through music, and the way tradition can be kept alive by those who cherish it.

On this summer day, Newbury’s Center truly sang—a celebration of history, harmony, and the enduring power of song to bring people together across generations.

For more information on this event, please contact Justin Squizzero at  j.l.squizzero@gmail.com