I absolutely love the German Hall a cappella singing. However, perhaps the MSF organizers are missing an important opportunity to develop the a cappella pub-sing (fo'c'sle sing) tradition. They scheduled the on-board open sing led by the Ancient Mariners. Although it was a little too regimented, it was a good way to involve more singers leading songs. Suppose the on-board sing (called a "round robin" in the program) was expanded? Hmmm… have it guided by volunteers imbued with the tradition? There could be themes outside the maritime tradition or at least outside the German Hall tradition: funny songs, parodies, ballads, drinking songs, gospel (can't believe I said that), recitations, river songs, logging songs, John Campbell songs, and well you get the idea. Small crowds (8-15) would be ideal. Offering this for maybe 2 sessions on Friday and Saturday late in the afternoon might be just the way to encourage newbies and old hands with soft voices to get involved.

The Pickin' Singin' Gatherin' (Capital Region folk club) leads a small session like this at Old Songs this Saturday at 4:15 at the Street Corner. Drop by.