Debbie’s Filk FAQ

The term “filkhog” is usually applied to someone who performs more times during an open filk circle than their fair share. What exactly a “fair share” is, of course, varies from person to person. [Read more →]

Let me say straight off that my answer to the question will not satisfy everyone. Everyone is unique, with their own expectations and likes/dislikes. I’m hoping, though, that at least some of this might be useful to at least some of you. [Read more →]

I’ve found filk conventions have different personalities, usually based on the people running the convention as well as regional differences. [Read more →]

Seanan McGuire posted a great OVFF Survival Guide in her Livejournal for those planning to attend the convention for the first time. Seanan was Toastmaster at OVFF in 2005. She has kindly given permission for me to reprint her advice below: [Read more →]

Please note that original question was posted in LJ and was: “I am a cadet at West Point in New York and am looking for information on how to choose a guitar to buy. [Read more →]

From Erica’s excellent LJ entry (and accompanying comments), posted here with permission: [Read more →]

I’ve heard comments like the following many times at filk conventions:

• “I’ve written a song, but I’m too nervous to sing it.”
• “Everyone’s so good! There’s no way I’m going to perform in THAT circle.”
• “My song didn’t really follow any of the songs that were going on, so I didn’t sing it.”
• “I tried to jump in a few times with my song, but no one heard me and other people began singing their songs instead. I finally gave up.”

[Read more →]

First of all, most people have -some- musical ability. At the very least, you can appreciate and derive enjoyment of music. If you can’t, then you wouldn’t be interested in filking in the first place. [Read more →]

“One-shots” are opportunities for filkers to perform one song of their choosing in a concert setting. Some conventions also offer “two-shots” or even “three-shots”.

“One-shots” are meant to be a showcase for those who do not have concerts at that particular convention. They are also a great opportunity for those who want to strengthen their performance skills.

It’s generally bad form for guests to do one-shots since they already have their own concert and do not need a showcase.

You usually sign up for one-shots at the convention (though in rare cases, you can sign up before). If the con offers one-shots, there is a sign-up sheet at the registration table. Some cons offer “two-shots” or “two-fers”.

Comments? Suggestions? Please post below.

When a performer forgets lyrics or guitar chords, filkers will sometimes call out, “Frank Hayes disease, give generously!” Those of you not familiar with Frank Hayes might be curious about this strange affliction.

Frank Hayes is indeed a real person. Here’s his Wikipedia entry.

From a Duckon bio years ago: “By 1983 or so, my ability to forget had reached legendary status,” Frank writes. “Some filkers claimed they got temporary amnesia just from sitting in the same room as me. On one amazing (but true) occasion, Heather Alexander borrowed a guitar, not knowing it was mine–and promptly forgot a song she had known for years.”

Comments? Suggestions? Please post below.