What is a Sylvan Bard?

The Sylvan Bard is recognized as the champion chosen by Their Majesties of Æthelmearc and the former Sylvan Bard(s), potentially also with Their Highnesses' input. Typically the competition happens during the Kingdom Twelfth Night event, but ultimately it's up to TRM and their Sylvan Bard(s).

Why is there sometimes Queen's/King's/Monarch's (or other titles) next to the Sylvan Bard title?

The outcome of the competition varies from year to year. Maybe there's only one bard that stands out above the rest. Maybe there are two. There's no set standard for exactly how many competitors are given the title in any given year. If there are multiple, typically the added qualifier to the Sylvan Bard title indicates the method of choice. For example, one bard is dedicated to each of Their Majesties, or one to each Their Majesties and Their Highnesses, or maybe one to the Royalty and one to the Populace.

I want to participate in bardic, but I've no idea where to start. It seems so overwhelming!

Sure, it certainly can be. The SCA is a large playground with lots of enticing attractions! Typically a good way to start is by attending bardic circles or classes (whether virtually or in person), listen, and remember styles, pieces, or particular performers you enjoy. How best do you learn other skills? Try to emulate that. Maybe it's practicing on your own--sing while you're in the car, tell stories to your pets or a photo--or seeking out a known bard and asking for feedback.

I want to run a bardic circle at my event, but I've no idea what to do!

First of all--THANK YOU for helping spread the bardic arts in Æthelmearc! Bardic is only good if we have a collective effort.

• Look at the venue where it's going to be. Is it really busy during the day that an evening circle would be better? Is the event heavily scheduled that you only have time for one piece per person? Do you have a full evening and plenty of firewood? These pieces greatly influence your performances and the audience.
• Sticking to a specific theme--eg one geographical region or culture, one type of medium, one theme, a certain time period--will greatly affect how many participants you have. If none, then that will certainly be more welcoming to all comers. It all depends on what mood you want to set. Keep in mind whether or not there'll be youth in attendance.
• You'll also want to decide on a format of participating. A popular choice is Pick, Pass, Play: the order proceeds in one direction of the circle where someone Picks a particular piece, style, or performer to go, Pass to the next person without making a choice, or Play (aka perform) any piece they'd like to. Some circles run through a pre determined list with scheduled breaks. Some circles do Popcorn: anyone can stand up at any time and go--though usually there's a courtesy rule of waiting until 3-4 others perform before you go again. Whatever you'd like, be sure to make it clear to attendees.
• Lastly, make sure you have someone in charge at all times, even if you do so in shifts. Their responsibilities should include:
  • Making sure newcomers have seating
  • If there's a consistent flow of newcomers, remind everyone of the rules
  • Point out refreshments and make sure water is available
  • Quiet distracting side conversations, or ask them to move farther away from performers
  • Encourage respect from all performers and audience members
  • Any incidentals--they're kind of a minor autocrat

Hey, I know this piece! Can I sing along, clap, or make appropriate noise?

It depends, mostly on what you read from the performer. Did they say anything at the beginning, or did you ask if joining in is okay? Did the circle's host say anything about joining in? If not, do your best to gauge the performer. If you start joining in softly, do they stutter and look nervous? Do they smile and wave you on? Overall, it's basic decency not to be louder than the performer. As far as drumming or keeping a beat, pay close attention to their original tempo--many times others will speed up or slow down the performer's beat without their permission. If it's a quieter or more intimate piece, don't join in unless the performer asks or signals you to.

I want to perform, but none of my stuff is in period.

The vast majority of circles you'll attend operate much like the mission statement of the SCA: make an attempt to be period. Many times, the head of the circle will clarify what pieces are welcome. Sometimes they request a specific time period or theme, other times it may be open for any era or style. For the former, try to stay away from pieces younger than 19th century or with obviously modern references (eg electronics, pop culture terms, technology, events). For example, sea shanty pieces are popular sing a long pieces and are most times appopriate. Most don't have modern references, even though the songs themselves came around long after the 1500s. Perioid is a term sometimes used for thematically appropriate selections that aren't actually in period.

I can't remember the piece I want to perform. Can I use a cheat?

Absolutely. If you're using a phone or tech device, try to plan ahead and hide it in a book or behind an object that creates a period aesthetic (a wood, cloth, or leather case). And whatever they cheat, do your best to not just look at the words, and engage with your audience. That makes it more enjoyable, and the memory more lasting!

How can I be listed as a member of the College? How can I list my piece on the website?

Contact the Webminister! We are always looking to grow our library and our visibility.