Which tradition led directly to the singing school tradition?

The singing school tradition in America developed directly from the earlier European practice of "singing schools" that emerged in the 17th and 18th centuries, particularly in England. These schools focused on teaching music reading and vocal techniques, often using shape-note notation to facilitate learning. The American variant became popular in New England and the Southern states, where community singing and literacy in music were emphasized, influencing the development of American folk and religious music.