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Rounds Resounding Day in U.S. 2023: Date, History, Facts about Singing

In the 12th century, round chanting became popular in Europe because it had no definitive conclusion and could be repeated indefinitely.

On August 1, Rounds Resounding Day is observed to recall aspiring and established singers of the musical style of singing in rounds. But what exactly is round singing? It is the discipline of singing with three or four voices that follow one another. The resulting sound is that of chanting in unison or an octave. This is the type of musical composition that is predominantly found in catchy nursery chants. However, the harmony created by this style of singing is what makes it so popular and deserving of recognition. Therefore, clear your larynx and prepare to sing rounds.

The background of Rounds Resounding Day

In the 12th century, round chanting became popular in Europe because it had no definitive conclusion and could be repeated indefinitely. This is why round singing became popular in drunken glee societies where people would sing round songs. The term appears to have first appeared in English, however, in the early 16th century. In mediaeval England, round chanting was known as ‘rota’ or ‘rondellus’ before that time. During the eighteenth century, round singing became more prevalent in catch societies in England. In the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, circles began to be associated with religious texts. “Summer is Icumen” is one of the earliest rounds still performed today. It consists of four tenor voices and two bass voices.

Thomas Ravenscroft published the very first round song in 1609. Round songs were first published in the early 1600s. After the vocal style gained worldwide recognition, it was performed in orchestras and even around campfires by scouts and guides. In 1987, Rounds Resounding Day was established to honour the art form and to promote singing in harmony. Increasing rhythm and timing are also enjoyable aspects of harmonising in rounds.