Trevor James
Minstrel extraordinaire
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
sorme 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 witb 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.
