The Wellspring Gathering 2009

This Chair of the Bardic Arts is founded by the largesse of Stone Creed Grove ADF, for the good of the Bardic Arts in ADF. The Grove declares that music, poetry and story are in many ways the heart of the Druidic Spirit, the core of the Old Ways, and wishes to establish a seat of distinction for those with talent and skill. Therefore we offer this prize (prize to be announced) and the acclaim, this year, of being the first to hold a title that we hope to make a source of honor. Those who compete for the Wellspring Chair should be prepared to offer their skills in service to Our Druidry for the time they hold the title, as best they may.

Those who wish to compete for the Wellspring Bardic Chair, and the title of Wellspring Bard, must be prepared to compete in song, in poetic recitation, and in storytelling. One performance in each shall be required to qualify for the chair. The victory in the competition shall be determined by the decision of a panel of judges (to be determined).

In this first year of the Chair we can accept no more than 19 contestants. Applications shall be accepted by Stone Creed Grove - first come, first listed - until the slots are filled or until the first contestant performs. Applicants should send their legal name, use-name and contact info to seniordruid@stonecreed.org. Please describe your performance intent and any needs. We intend to provide a PA for the workshop performances, with sufficient lines for an instrument. Instruments are permitted for any of the performances. The total 'set length' of the three performances together should not exceed 15 minutes. At the on-site registration for the competition the contestants should present lyrics or a written form of their presentation, when possible.

The competitors will perform in three workshop slots, one each for the three categories. All are welcome to view the performances, but the judges will be in charge of the process. The judges shall rule according to their judgment, but will judge with the following in mind:

• That an effective piece of modest length is better than one too long. (please try to average five minutes per item)
• That an original piece might carry more weight than a cover piece.
• That a performance from memory might carry more weight than one from paper.

The Grove may decide to allow competitors in single categories. This will be determined by the number of Chair contestants and the organizing needs of the event. Watch for further announcements on that. Of course a community stage will be open at various times through the weekend.

With this announcement the rolls are open for applications - please send to seniordruid@stonecreed.org. May skill and inspiration be with us all.