The moon and its many phases has all kinds of names and lore associated with it, for this episode, I want to share with you some traditional Scottish stories where the moon plays an important role, sometimes acting as a catalyst for transformation, sometimes acting as a sympathetic witness, but always, ever present. In this episode you will hear a traditional Gaelic blessing for the new moon, a piece of 16th century music played on lute by musician Matthew Spring, transformation stories and stories of enchantment. 

Harp music throughout is by fantastic Helena D Cauwer, singing by the wonderful Laura Gekiere and me and Sound production has also been expertly done by Laura.

The first 2 of my Seasonal Folklore booklets with St Andrews Botanic Garden are out now and you can find them at the Gardens, at a number of independent bookshops and also via the publisher directly here:

Spring:https://www.wideopensea.co.uk/product/seasonal-folklore-springSummer:https://www.wideopensea.co.uk/product/seasonal-folklore-summer

This time of year is said to be a liminal time and so this episode brings you stories of creatures and spirits who flit between worlds, as well as a non Scottish story of the Snow Queen, a story I always love for this time of year.

This episode has been made possible thanks to these incredible people:

Playing harp : Helena De Cauwer

Choir vocals : Marie Cocriamont, Roos Denaeyer, Laura Gekiere 

Sound editing : Laura Gekiere 

You can find everyone on Instagram: @vitrifrancesca @medinktation @hym.we.are @rosabutsi @eileenbudd

#folklore #yule #scottish #winterstories #christmas