Classes

Roundhouse U. will once again offer a vast panoply of classes of interest to the non-bard, the beginner bard, or the ancient veteran, in a wide variety of topic areas.

There are still some slots open. If you're interested in teaching, contact the class coordinator: Mallye Hallidaye

Roundhouse U 2011 Classes

photo credit: Llew

Mathilda's Period Music Theory class at the Third Bardic Roundhouse

Organizing a Successful Bardic Competition
Instructor: Lord Commodore Robin McCauley

Tips and techniques on how to appeal to bards so they enter your competition, how to appeal to viewers so you have an audience, and how to have the whole thing judged so people aren't left wondering “what was THAT all about?”. You don't need to be bardicly inclined to host a competition – after all, you're the host, not a judge.

Storytelling: From Text to Voice
Instructor: Lord Maraha Kahanikar

Traditional stories from around the world have been recorded in writing, but the forms used by writers differ from those we use orally. This class addresses the reasons why writers' versions vary from both the oral forms and each other and how to give them voice. Students will have an opportunity to retell stories during class; sources will be available for reference but you are encouraged to bring a story you'd like to work with.

Round and Round it Goes
Instructor: Baroness Catriona nicHugh Mclaey

After a brief history of rounds sung in period, there will be class participation learning 8-10 rounds of period origin, period themes, and SCA filk. A class handout and a music CD are available for $2. You do not need to buy the materials to sing with the class.

Preparing for Performance
Instructors: Lady Ursula the Widow and THL Brendan O Corraidhe

The piece you are going to perform is only part of the package - the performance is the total package, and preparation makes the performance. Lady Ursula and Lord Brendan explore techniques for this preparation.

Basic Voice
Instructor: Lady Aethelhilde

Techniques for getting the most out of your vocal equipment.

Songs and Tunes in Modal Scales: An Intro to Modes using Period Examples
Instructor: Lady Mathilda Harper

The mode is the basic tonal organizing principle in early music. An introduction to the modes used by our period forebears.

Basic Vocal Harmony Techniques
Instructor: Lady Lorelei Skye of Sans Nomen, OW

Ever wonder how the folks around you seemingly make up harmony on the fly? Wonder no longer! I'll take you though some vocal singing basics, and teach several simple ways to harmonize, and learn harmonies. Songs such as "Scarlett", "Captain Jack and the Mermaid", and possibly more (bring suggestions!)... will be used in class.

Hands-on Recorder Workshop
Instructors: Members of the Northern Oaken Recorder Ensemble

While recorders in modern times are frightening instruments of torture elementary school teachers inflict on parents through at-home "practicing," recorders are actually beautiful instruments when played well. Join members of the Northern Oaken Recorder Ensemble and learn about recorders in period, then have the opportunity to try out several instruments for yourself.