18th century research has revealed that Glastonbury is one of a number of towns in England, which, according to tradition, can elect their own bard to represent the local arts scene.
The original bards were from Iron Age poets-mystics who kept the lore and history of their tribes, held high status and fulfilled an important cultural role. They were closely akin to the Druids and many believe that when occupying Romans destroyed, or drove the Druids underground, their knowledge and rites were passed on to the Bardic Order.
Each bard holds the post for one year and a day, before setting up a competition to elect a successor.
The "Chair" refers to the position but, in some cases, as in Glastonbury and Bath, there is a physical ceremonial chair which is passed down from bard to bard. We also have a blue ceremonial robe and the ceremonial Silver Branch of Ynys Witrin, which are passed on with the title.
Now that we're allowed to upload 10 songs on MySpace, I thought I'd present a few more gems for your delight and delectation.
Now That Spring Has Come Again - is a traditional Spring Carol to which Jo Waterworth composed a new third verse.
Manannan - is about being pixie-led on Dartmoor.
Empty Space and Mining For Starlight are from the Invisible Opera sessions for 'Open For Isness'. Mining For Starlight was inspired by the George MacDonald novel 'At the back of the North Wind'.
Happy listening!
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