The concept of 'the minstrel tongue' is the central conceit of my novel, Kitty and Cadaver, which is about a rock and roll band that fights monsters using the magic that manifests when they sing. This particular band has its roots in the 13th century, when a drummer and a piper join forces to survive a brutal English winter and deal with its supernatural cause.

Through the "grandfather's axe" principle, members of the music troupes and bands that follow come and go, changing their name with every new leader, but they stretch in a line from Will and Thomas in England in 1258, all the way Kitty Carrasco and her band in Melbourne in the 21st century.

But these musicians aren't the only ones with magic powers linked to creativity as part of the universe's plan to balance dark forces with more positive ones. The Minstrel Tongue is most common, followed by Estampie Feet ("estampie" is a medieval form of dance and music). But crafters are also able to imbue their creations with magic ? like the yarnworkers in 'Stitch and Witch'. Around the world, in the Minstrelverse, are people who can maintain the balance through song and dance, craft and art, in all its forms. I aim to write more about these magicians too.

In the meantime here are a few tales of those blessed (or cursed) with the Minstrel Tongue and its related gifts. Please enjoy them, and look for the magic in the music in your life.