[MR] bardic circles and info for the Quill

[Gina Shelley]

Sarishan, Cian,

Thanks for the kind words. I'm so glad we were able to help you along in your playing in this way. It's hard to join a group of musicians, especially when one is new, and it makes me extremely happy to know that you felt comfortable enough to join in with us. That's how I want it to be. 

I think the first time you played with us was at Delia's place, wasn't it? I remember later we were saying among ourselves, "that dude is pretty cool. He can sit in anytime." And it still goes. I do love me some bodhran. :-)

There was a night years ago when I stood in a parking lot with a new bodhran I could barely play, trying to work up enough guts to walk inside and introduce myself. I remember my legs shaking and the overwhelming urge to get back in my car and drive away. If I hadn't been approached by fiddle player who is now a good friend of mine, and encouraged to go inside, I'm not sure I would have found the sand to do it. 

It's hard. But everyone's gotta start somewhere. 

That we were able to make it easier in some way for someone is what I want to hear. It tells me we're doing something right. 

Thanks for posting this. 

Dulcy








> 
> I have not attended some bardic circles because of the implication that 
> everyone was expected to perform.  I am a novice Bodhran player.  Dulcy 
> and Painted Wheel have been kind enough to let me sit with them at times 
> and play, which is much appreciated and has gone a long way toward 
> helping my confidence with the instrument.  I have fond memories of the 
> first time I sat in and "jammed" with them, and how much fun it was.
> 
> I would love to be able to join in a bardic circle and explore my 
> Bodhran, but the thought of feeling the need to perform kind of keeps me 
> away from some.
> 
> So please, if you are having a bardic circle, make sure to stress that 
> performing is NOT necessary, and encourage beginners to come and join in 
> to the best of their ability.
> 
> Cian mac Cellacháin hUí Dublaich
>