Trevor James

Periods covered: Saxon to 20th century

Contact:  Trevor James

              01582 842178

My aim is to provide an insight into the world of the Minstrel and the art of Minstrelsy

Using my extensive collection of historical musical instruments (some of my own construction) and wearing authentic period costume, I will take you on a musical journey back in time. Hear the delicate tone of the gemshorn, be entbralled by the magnificence of the English bagpipe and relax to the sweet sound of the psalteries.

The Minstrels Tent
Dressed to period, provides the perfect setting from which to present a....

Demonstration and Talk
This begins with an introduction to some of the minstrel characters from the past, their lives, their skills and their talents. Each instrument is then demonstrated along with a brief history and explanation of how it works. The presentation is suitable for both children and adults with timings to suit (max. 6o mins). It may be concluded with a simple brawl (circle dance).

The Recital or Concert
Consists of longer pieces of music played on selected instruments and may be used in conjunction with the demonstration and talk. Timings to suit.

The Wandering Minstrel/Street Musician
Provides great atmosphere and music on the move at Historic Fayres, Banquets, Weddings, Markets, Corporate, Etc.

Instruments (so far!)
English Bagpipes, English Smallpipes, 6 hole pipes, 3 hole pipe & Tabor, Renaissance Recorder and Flute, Bone pipe, Gemshorn, Crumhorn, Cornamuse, Doublepipes, Gittern, Gothic harp, various plucked, hammered and bowed Psalteries, Celtic harp, Cittern, Symphony (Hurdy Gurdy), percussion - Tabor Drums, Clappers (Bones), Stringdrum and Jaws harp.