[Bards] Bardic college Events

[Simone Ui'Dunlaingh]

I can not recall why eistenfod was moved to stepps a long time ago I
think at the time they were the only one willing to host it. I do
remeber being very greatful I did not have to drive from OKlahoma to
hustons at the time..I was a Long time ago. I think it is a good thing
that it is at 12th night I do not think that is the problem.


Over the years i have seeen the space given for the Estinfod shrink,
The promotion of it, and the education to the kingdom the importance
of it dwindle. as well as participation from other bards. my last on 2
years ago saw less than 10 bards Compete for the honour to be our
Bard. hec my fist on at Ansteorran's 15th I was encourged to atend by
my laurel to get experiance competing with the best our kingdom has to
offer and ther were over 30 in competition i believe.

But as Bards If we are to expect the populace to recognize and suport
Our estinfadd we too must take it seriously and suport it. And a
showing of only a dozon bards to compete to be the kingdom bard is not
showing suport for the competition.

When participation at Canton shire and Barnial bardics are greater and
more prestigious than the Kindom Estinfodd. we might want to look ast
ourselves and not outside our selves. I have seen Local Bardic
competions sport 30+ participants regularly when we cant get that many
to show for kingdom..WHY? What is the diffrence? Why would a bard be
willing to compete at a local level and not kingdom? these I think are
the questions we  should ask.

If we do not feel the audiance is taking us seriosly of supporting
us.. WE should ask how much do we suport us? Our audiance can only see
what we do. and if they do not see us take an active part in the arts
why should they care.

I still trravel as health allows , I still perform,  and I am asked at
almost every event i attend..where have the bards gone.

I do not think the issue is about the Estinfod...I think the issue is
What are we doing as bards to Particpate, show, promote and encourage
our craft

Simone

-- 
Muirenn ingen Senáin uí Dúnlaing.
---------------------------------
We will be with you in the
fellowship of the spirit, and you
will surley meet some of us
as you TRUDGE the road of
happy destiny--bigbook 164