Album Notes

Social Band is a lively group of twenty singers based in Burlington, Vermont, known for its strong voices and joyful, high-quality performances. Featuring a powerful, full sound, Social Band brings warmth and vitality to its broad repertoire. Now under the direction of Amity Baker, the ensemble was founded in 1998 by Liz Thompson and Don Jamison based on their love of both folk and classical music. Social Band's performances continue to incorporate these two styles, striking a balance between raw exuberance and a polished sound.

What We Sing

Social Band's repertoire is based on the notion that "folk" and "classical" music are parts of a continuum. Concerts feature mostly a cappella music from a wide range of genres:

● American shape-note and Appalachian music
● British Isles counterparts
● Balkan and Georgian music
● European medieval and renaissance music
● music composed by Social Band members and friends

The common threads? Much of this music is modal, most of it is polyphonic, and the harmonies are rich and engaging. Social Band seeks out music that is often overlooked by more conventional choruses. Most importantly, our music stirs the soul, is fun to sing, and our audiences love it!

Social Band's debut CD, Florona, released in November, 2003, reflects the diversity and excitement of our repertoire.