- DURATION 60 mins
Event Description
Wassailing has been practised in Britain for centuries, going back to Pagan times. Although Twelfth Night is now overshadowed by Christmas and New Year, Wassailing still takes place in many communities, especially in rural areas. But what is it, and why do people do it?
We will also explore some of the other Twelfth Night traditions from history. Travel through time and meet the Mari Lwyd of Wales; the Osses of Cornwall; and the Lord of Misrule at the Tudor Court. Discover what you do and don’t want to find in your Twelfth Night Cake, and why you might spill your cider on the ground instead of drinking it. Alongside all this, we will explore some of the music, ancient and modern, associated with the season.
Claire is a musician and a proud Celt, and has recently become a Bard of the Order of Bards, Ovates and Druids; let her help you prepare for your Twelfth Night!
- Duration: 60 mins
- Online Zoom event: Join from your computer, phone or tablet (no replay available)
Meet the Host, Claire
Born and raised in Cornwall, Claire came to Cardiff to undertake a music degree at the University of Wales, Cardiff.
She graduated in 2003, with specialisms in recital, ensemble, performance practice, and 19th Century opera; her dissertation subject was Puccini’s Madama Butterfly.
Claire plays the viola in the Cardiff Philharmonic Orchestra, with whom she has worked with performers including Brian Blessed and Michael Sheen, and also writes programme notes for the orchestra. For several years she was Principal Viola at the Harlech Orchestral Summer School, where she performed many major orchestral solos.
Claire loves all kinds of music. She plays the violin, ukulele, banjolele, and sings in The Withering Raspberries; ukulele and banjolele in The Ukulele Wolves; and sings in Quaynotes Choir. In 2010 she played viola on the UK top 30 album Dirt by Kids In Glass Houses. She also plays the piano, mandolin, and guitar.
Claire believes passionately that music belongs to everyone, and especially enjoys bringing to life the stories of composers and their works.
More Information
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