Music of the Shakers: The Glee Clubs of Smith and Amherst Colleges

Originating in England, the religious sect known as the Shakers arrived in the U.S. in 1774, led by “Mother Ann” Lee. Called Shakers by outsiders, due to their agitated movements during worship, they created a musical legacy of thousands of songs, some original, some adapted from outside sources.

One of their songs, “Simple Gifts (The Gift to Be Simple),” has become widely known through composer Aaron Copeland’s having incorporated it into his ballet Appalachian Spring.

On this recording, the combined Glee Clubs of Smith College and Amherst College present a concert of Shaker songs, all sung in traditional unison style. A Fanfare, played on trumpet, opens the program.

The liner notes present Shaker history and culture and excerpts from the songs, both words and music.

Track Listing

101	Fanfare / The People Called the Shakers / The Sermon / Followers of the Lamb / Mother Ann's Song / Oh I Love Mother / Shepherdess Song / Mother Ann's Song	Amherst College Glee Club and Smith College Glee Club	11:55
102	Sweep as I Go / The Voice of God/ Who Will Bow and Bend Like a Willow / Come Life, Shaker Life / Simple Gifts / I've Set My Face for Zion's Kingdom	Amherst College Glee Club and Smith College Glee Club	11:14