Bardic Madness XVII (2007): Class Schedule

Remember, the class schedule is subject to change as circumstances demand, so be sure to watch/listen for class changes at the event!

Also, something new this year: several classes will be presented again Sunday morning. See the end of the class list for a Sunday morning schedule.

Morning class period (10:45-11:45):

You Too Can Write a Sestina!
taught by: Lady Freydis in tryggva Sigurdardottir, Mistig Waetru
Learn the mechanics of this highly structured poetic form dating from the 12th century. It's easier than you think. Just for fun, we'll try writing a sample sestina...maybe even come up with a finished product, who knows? The siller the better. Bring paper and a writing instrument.

Northshield Choir rehearsal
led by: THL Christian d'Hiver and Lady Cecilia de Cambrige, Nordskogen/Nordleigh
We're gonna sing! Rehearsal of items for one of the challenges, plus Coronation.

Research
taught by: H.L. Amytis de Fontaine
Find out about the different degrees of research in the SCA, where to find information, how to organize your information and keep it straight.

Using Your Voice: a Period to Modern Instruction
taught by: Jose Sao Pacian, Bard of Jararvellir
How can we sing all night, be heard, and not be hoarse before midnight? A voice class with both a period look and a modern look at voice production and health.

(Class still to be verified: "Troubadour Music" by Fiona of the Harp)

Afternoon class period (2:15-3:15):

The Early Art of Comedy
taught by: Lady Alienor Hathaway and Lady Sarah the Foole, Jararvellir
Everyone needs a good laugh every now and then. Come learn about one of the ways they did it in period. The clowns and jesters in Shakespeare and Moliere all have their roots in the Italian Renaissance Commedia dell'Arte.

Period Music Appreciation
taught by: Dame Josceline Levesque, Jararvellir
What music would have been known to your persona? Hear an overview of (mostly Western) European music from the 11th-16th centuries, with recorded examples.

Improvising Harmony
taught by: Lady Cecilia de Cambrige, College of Nordleigh
In this class we will discuss (and practice!) how to improvise harmony to a given melody. We will cover some medieval practices but will most likely spend most of the time on basic harmonies in folk music (basic tonal music). Be ready to do a little bit of music theory, sing, and have fun!

Being a Bard at the Wars
taught by: THL Dolan Madoc, Barony of Lonely Tower, Calontir
Have you ever thought about going to one of the SCA's major events like Pennsic, Estrella, Gulf Wars or perhaps Lilies? This class will take a glance at each war, the opportunities and difficulties that each unique environment offers in terms of bardic circles and performance venues. There will not be handouts, but several books from each war will be available for your perusal.

Improving Your Live Performance
taught by: Baron Mateo Montero de Madrid
Tips and techniques for polishing up your live performance skills, be they for the bardic fire, on stage, or in the feast hall.

Classes to be re-taught Sunday:

  • 10-11 am:
    • "Using Your Voice" by Jose
    • "You Too Can Write a Sestina" by Freydis
  • 11 am-12 pm:
    • "Improvising Harmony" by Cecilia
    • "The Early Art of Comedy" by Alienor/Sarah
Credits, disclaimer This is the website for Bardic Madness XVII (March 30-April 1, 2007) and is maintained by THL Eliane Halevy. Any discrepancies between the electronic version of any information on this site and the printed version (in the Northwatch) will be decided in favor of the printed version.

Site last altered: 3/25/07

Background graphic: thanks to Retrokat.com