Sea Shanty Performances at Maritime Museum

During 19th century sailing voyages, the constant rhythm of a sea shanty helped a ship's crew orchestrate their movements while performing tedious duties. While the practical use for sea songs has faded away, visitors to the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic can enjoy the traditional music on Saturday, Aug. 19.

The Johnson Girls, an all-woman maritime song group, will entertain the audience with two special sea shanty performances.

At 3 p.m., The Johnson Girls will hold a free, hour-long workshop where participants will learn shanties and forecastle (fo'c'sle)songs, and discover the reasons the music was so ingrained in life at sea.

At 7:30 p.m., the group will showcase its talent with rousing work songs, and haunting ballads and laments.

Formed in 1997, the group has headlined events such as Portugal's Festival of Ports in Lisbon; Britain's Sidmouth International Festival, Warwick Folk Festival, Broadstairs Folk Week, and New England's Mystic Seaport Sea Music Festival.

Admission for the workshop is free. Admission to the concert is $5 per adult.

The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic is located at 1675 Lower Water St. in Halifax.