Rounds Resounding Day is celebrated on August 1 to remind up-and-coming and existing singers of the musical form of singing in rounds. But what is round singing really? It is the art of singing in a way where three or four voices follow each other. The sound that is formed is of singing in unison or an octave. This is the kind of musical composition that mostly exists as fun nursery rhymes that get stuck in our heads! However, it is the harmony created by this form of singing that makes it so popular and worth celebrating. So clear your throat, and get ready to sing in rounds.
History of Rounds Resounding Day
Round singing started emerging in Europe during the 12th century and was so loved because it had no specific ending and could be repeated over and over again. This is why round singing gained popularity in glee clubs where people would get drunk and sing some round songs. The term, however, seems to have formally appeared in English in the early 16th century. But round singing had existed before that and was called ‘rota’ or ‘rondellus’ in medieval England. In the 18th century, round singing gained more popularity in England where it was often done in catch clubs. During the 17th and 18th centuries, rounds started being connected with religious texts. One of the oldest rounds still heard today is called ‘Sumer is Icumen,’ and comprises four tenor voices and two bass voices.
Round songs started being published around the 1600s and the first one ever printed was in 1609 by Thomas Ravenscroft. After the form of singing became known worldwide, it was used in orchestras and was even sung in campfires by scouts and guides. To celebrate the art form, Rounds Resounding Day was founded in 1987 and focused on the promotion of singing in harmony. Other fun elements of singing in rounds include increasing rhythm and timing.
Rounds Resounding Day timeline
The Egyptians have a prominent music culture.
Italians perform castrations to preserve high male singing voices.
Richard Wagner publishes “The Ring Cycle,” which becomes a famous musical project.
Elvis Presley becomes the first rock star in the world.
Rounds Resounding Day FAQs
What is singing in rounds called?
Singing in rounds is also called ‘perpetual cannon’ and has three voices of the same melody.
How do you teach singing in rounds?
To sing in rounds, have each student sing separately at first and then in unison.
What songs can be sung in a round?
Some popular songs that can be sung in a round include ‘Row, Row, Row Your Boat,’ and ‘Three Blind Mice.’
How to Celebrate Rounds Resounding Day
Sing songs
Sing round songs in the comfort of your home. You can start with some addictive nursery rhymes that you have grown up listening to.
Visit a karaoke club
To celebrate the day, visit a karaoke club and sing some round songs with your friends. You are sure to have the time of your life.
Watch a performance
Watch a performance of people singing in rounds to better understand why the day is important. It will definitely be a fun and educational activity.
5 Fun Facts You Need To Know About Singing
Standing and singing
Singing while standing is easier compared to singing while sitting.
What you eat and drink
A singing performance can be negatively affected if you drink carbonated beverages before the time.
Increasing happiness
People singing in groups feel happier.
The muscles used
100 muscles of the body are used when you sing or talk.
The body part singers rely on
Singers rely heavily on their lung capacity to sing better.
Why Rounds Resounding Day is Important
It teaches students the importance of round singing
Round singing is an interesting form of singing that has numerous benefits. With this day, these benefits are highlighted and the advantages of round singing are brought to the forefront.
It aids singers to focus on specific vowels used in round singing
Round singing is a great tool that teaches singers to focus on vowels and consonants. Hence, celebrating the day improves singing skills.
It helps people harmonize
Those who practice round singing can harmonize better. When people sound better with the practice of round singing, they are more dedicated to pursuing the art form.
Rounds Resounding Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | August 1 | Thursday |
| 2025 | August 1 | Friday |
| 2026 | August 1 | Saturday |
| 2027 | August 1 | Sunday |
| 2028 | August 1 | Tuesday |
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