The hour-long Medieval Minstrel Show takes an affectionate look at life in the middle ages through the eyes of a pair of wandering minstrels.

A unique mix of vivid costumes (including a knight in armour!), lively action, and catchy period songs and tunes played on an array of exotic instruments provides a memorable resource for all ages in a primary or intermediate school.

Your students will see and hear authentic medieval music being played on period instruments such as harp, lute, recorders, pipe and tabor, shawm and doumbek, learn a medieval dance, take part in the action and join the band, playing medieval drone and percussion instruments.

A special feature of the show is a spinning demonstration with the ancient fore-runner of the spinning wheel, the handspindle. Two children will get "hands-on" tuition with this.

Teachers' notes are provided in advance to help you prepare for and/or follow up the Medieval Minstrel Show. Included are art suggestions (you may like to decorate the venue with banners and shields), costume ideas (it's a great opportunity for a dress-up theme), some resources for finding medieval music, and two pieces of music so that any musicians you have can play with us on these tunes.

The Medieval Minstrel Show is the only show of its kind touring New Zealand schools. To book a "Bill & Kath" school show, contact us by email or phone (details below) or check out the Bookings page.