Prospective Dates:
- November 30, 2025 – Lindsey, Baltimore City
- January 31, 2026 (Sat.) – Open
- March 29, 2026 – Margaret – Frederick
- May 31, 2026 – Open
- August 30, 2026 – Open
- October 31, 2026 (Sat.) – Open
- November 29, 2026 – Open
What Are the Fifth Sunday Singings?
The Fifth Sunday Singings are a special series of shape-note gatherings in Maryland (with focus on the Baltimore area) that will be held hold whenever a month gives us a fifth Sunday—or occasionally a fifth Saturday. These are a bit more unique and flexible than our regular singings, and each one may have its own flavor depending on the host and location. The time of day and length is up to the host, but there will be a two hour minimum.
Hosting and Venue Considerations
Anyone in the group is welcome to volunteer to host a Fifth Sunday Singing. The location can be a home, a church hall, a library meeting room, outdoor during appropriate weather, or any suitable space. It can be anywhere in Maryland, but Baltimore obviously has the most concentration of singers. Just keep in mind a few practical details:
Accessibility: We’ll note in the event announcement whether the venue is accessible. While it’s not a requirement for every venue to be fully accessible, we’ll just make sure to let everyone know so attendees can plan accordingly.
Costs and Donations: All Fifth Sunday Singings are free events, just like our regular singings. If a host rents a venue, they can let attendees know that freewill donations to help cover that cost are appreciated, but there’s no set amount and no other costs are expected. Basically, it’s all kept low-key and voluntary.
Practical and Logistical Details: We’ll share all the specifics of each singing—time, place, and any special notes—through our usual communication channels. If you’re hosting, you can let folks know if you need a rough headcount, especially for smaller venues. Also, feel free to mention which tunebooks we’ll be using so people know to bring their own if they have them. We can have a few loaners on hand as well.
A Collaborative Spirit: Each Fifth Sunday Singing will have its own little personality, and that’s part of the fun. These gatherings might be a bit more informal or varied than our regular singings, and we encourage everyone to join in the spirit of flexibility and collaboration.
See our CHECKLIST FOR HOSTS for things to consider, which includes contact information.