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Amish Music

As one comes to expect from all other things Amish, music for them is a simple affair. The Amish are descended from the Germans, Dutch, and Swiss. Their religious songs are predominantly German, while folk and other social, rather than religious, songs are primarily in English. The songs are usually monophonic, consisting of a melody without harmony.

While some Amish learn to play instruments, this is done for private edification, and not public display. This means that Amish music in social settings is always sung, and is done so unaccompanied.  This single toned singing without accompaniment takes on the form of a chant in most songs, though there are celebratory songs with more life to them from time to time.

The beauty of Amish music can be found in the diversity they have created from such a strict set of guidelines. Their music can be an acquired taste, but that should not deter you from investigating it. The rich history of the music can serve as a great source for information for scholars. The songs show how the Amish belief system has formed over the past three to four centuries.  

 

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