Roundsinging
From SWILwiki
"Roundsinging" is, of course, the singing of rounds, ranging from the simple "Boat Your Row, Row, Row" to more intricate and beautiful rounds. A typical roundsing will take place on a relatively convenient evening, some time after dinner in the space under Clothier Belltower. They are attended by anyone who is interested, do not require preparation or knowledge of the music, or even much singing ability (you have more than you think). Printed lyrics are handed out, and contain the words to all the songs that SWIL collectively knows or has ever known.
Advanced Roundsings are held less frequently, and focus on the rounds in the repertoire that are more difficult to sing (but just as lovely). Advanced Roundsings are generally recommended for people who have gotten used to the notion of singing rounds, who learn them quickly, and who feel like a challenge.
The current Roundsinging tradition appears to have been revived in 1997 by Jed Hartman who was spending three weeks in the area while on a year-long tour of, well, everywhere. In the last two semesters, a roundsing has been held about every six weeks (more often if there is a lot of interest), which allows them to qualify for the status of "fully active tradition".
- The Swarthmore Rounds Online (http://www.swil.org/roundlist.html)
- Jed's travelogue (http://www.kith.org/logos/wander/6.pa/week33.html)
- Joanne Hammil's notes on style and terminology (http://www.joannehammil.com/forward.html)
Roundsinging should not be confused with filking, although people do frequently filk rounds.
