1. Royalty and Nobility:
* Kings and Queens: Bards were often employed by royal courts, entertaining at banquets, feasts, and special occasions. They sang tales of their patrons' ancestors, their deeds, and their lineage, helping to solidify their power and prestige.
* Lords and Ladies: Similarly, bards served noble households, performing at gatherings, tournaments, and other social events. They might compose songs about their patrons' exploits, their love affairs, or even just amusing anecdotes.
2. The Common People:
* Farmers and Workers: Bards would travel from village to village, performing for the common people at fairs, festivals, and markets. They often sang traditional folk songs, ballads, and stories that entertained and informed the local population.
* Taverns and Inns: Bards could also be found in taverns and inns, providing entertainment for patrons. They might sing love songs, drinking songs, or bawdy tales, contributing to the lively atmosphere of such establishments.
3. Religious Institutions:
* Monasteries and Churches: Some bards would find patronage in religious institutions, composing and performing religious music, hymns, and stories about saints and biblical figures. However, this was less common compared to secular patronage.
4. Travelling Groups:
* Minstrels and Troubadours: Bards often travelled in groups with other performers, such as minstrels and troubadours. They would share stories, songs, and musical skills, providing entertainment for a wider audience.
It's important to note that the role and status of bards varied significantly across different regions and time periods. In some places, they held great prestige, while in others they were more like travelling entertainers. Nevertheless, they all shared the common goal of using their musical talent to captivate their audience and preserve cultural heritage.