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Bardic Resources

NEW! 02/19/07 Improvisation for Melody Instruments
Another class handout describing a handful of techniques for improvisation. Part 2 of the handout addresses improvising in a manner which sounds more medieval.

Early Music Theory
A handout to go with a class I teach; it covers the basic math and physics that underlie music and the earliest Western theories about music and composition that arose from it. There's a lot of referencing Guido d'Arezzo going on.

The Kantele
A brief overview of some Internet sources for this ancient Finnish instrument, and how we may apply them to Anglo-Saxon performance.

A Scorecard for Bardic Competitions
A very formal method of refereeing these contests; has plusses and minuses.

Good Enough, Good, and Better
My opinion on the Great Authenticity Debate as it concerns bardic; a challenge to bards.

So You Want to Be a Solo Entertainer in the SCA
Some things to consider as you embark on a bardic career - performance specialties, period-ness, and venue.

Your First Bardic Circle
Having decided what kind of a bard you want to be, you will want to actually perform at some point. Here are some tips to creating a pleasing performance.

Performing at Feast
My advice to those bards who wish to perform before a feast hall.

Teleri's Songs for the Ladies
I got tired of every song and ballad with a female villain. So I started a collection of songs where the ladies are victorious.

Personal Bardic Challenge, 2007

Taking my own advice from "Good Enough, Good, Better"
Challenge Overview
January
February

For Children

Englyn Milwr
A short Welsh poetic form suitable for children old enough to count syllables and make rhymes. Handout meant for children.

Anglo-Saxon Riddles
Four Anglo-Saxon riddles and a little history to go with them. Handout meant for children.

Original Work

Praise Poems

War Songs

Translations

Humor