[Bards] A small Bardic survey....

[Alden Drake]

I'm trying to think of performing in general, rather than to specific 
venues.

1. Performers should keep in mind that their performance actually begins 
before they start their piece.  There is a moment between when the turn 
falls to them and when their piece begins, where the performer "sets the 
stage for him/herself"  This is when performers usually introduce 
themselves and/or the piece, give a little background, etc.  What some 
people don't realize is that you can grab or lose an audience in this 
little window of time.  Take advantage of it.

2. If you're a vocal performer, take care of your voice.  Much like a 
herald, you should be healthy, rested, watered, etc. when the time comes 
for you to perform.  Likewise, take care of your instruments and keep 
them tuned.

3. Pay attention to what's going on around you.  Observe the audience, 
the other performers, the judges.  See how they react to the 
performances going on.  Use that to tailor your performance.  If they 
seem bored, get them to laugh, or rouse their spirits.  If they're 
upbeat, don't bring them down with a somber piece.  If three stories 
have gone before you, sing a song, or perform something with pep.  If 
you know Mistress Jane doesn't like Old English poetry, and she's one of 
your judges, consider something else.

4. Don't worry if you mess up.  It happens to everyone.  Work around it, 
or use it, but keep going.  If you completely lose your grasp on it, 
just politely excuse yourself and try again another time.  Don't overly 
apologize, and don't keep the audience waiting for you to remember 
something.  Some performers suggest taking a drink to disguise 
collecting yourself again.  Sometimes it works, sometimes not so much.

5. Performing for bards (in Ansteorra at least) is easier than 
performing for non-bards, because for the most part, Ansteorran bards 
are very supportive of one another. 

6. Going before Master Megabard in a competition is no harder or easier 
than going after Master Megabard, so don't worry about it.  When your 
turn comes, do your best.  Your biggest competitor is yourself.  
Challenge yourself to do better than your last performance.

Just some random thoughts.

Alden


Genie Barrett wrote:
> Hi everyone,
>
> I have agreed to teach a basic bardic class at Steppes Artisan.
>
> Do you have any suggestions/requests regarding what to include in the class?
>
> I would rather make it more inclusive than just "bardic" which can 
> have such a narrow meaning, and include basic bardic etiquette and all.
>
> Should I include how to find bardic music info?
>
> Any other suggestions would be very much appreciated.
>
> Thanks
> Maggie MacPherson
> Glaslyn's Bardic Defender
>
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