Guest: Daygan Robinson - Multi-instrumentalist (mandolin, bouzouki) and founding member of Dragon’s Fly and Maythorne
Episode Summary
Sarah welcomes legendary Glastonbury musician Daygan Robinson for an intimate fireside chat about perfectionism, community music-making, and the transformative power of French Breton dance. Fresh from leading a creation myth retreat in Wales, Sarah explores with Daygan the vulnerability of performance, the magic of Glastonbury’s interconnected music scene, and why getting everyone dancing together might be the most powerful community ritual of all.
Key Topics
Musical Perfectionism & Self-Compassion Daygan opens up about his OCD tendencies and how hitting a wrong note can overshadow an entire brilliant performance in his mind - and how he’s learning to treat himself with the same kindness he extends to new musicians at Glastonbury Folk Club.
Glastonbury’s Musical Lineage A fascinating exploration of how bands like Silver on the Tree, Heathen’s All, and Space Goats have branched into today’s thriving scene - with musicians constantly collaborating across projects spanning 30+ years.
French Breton Dance as Community Ritual Daygan passionately describes the joy and connection of traditional French and Breton partner dances, where whole communities come together regardless of age or background - and announces his upcoming dance event.
The Courage to Sing Both Sarah and Daygan share their vulnerability around singing versus instrumental performance, and how witnessing others’ bravery at Folk Club has inspired new songwriting.
Beltane Traditions A delightful conversation about Glastonbury’s evolving Beltane celebrations, including the story of women joining the maypole procession and gently disrupting tradition.
Upcoming Events
* December 13th - French Breton Dance at Glastonbury Assembly Rooms with live music
* Samhain (Oct 30/31) - Maythorne performing (Assembly Rooms or White Spring TBC)
Music Mentioned
* Maythorne (Daygan’s new band) - Currently recording, described as “one of the tightest bands” he’s been in
* Dragon’s Fly - 28 years strong
* Silver on the Tree - “Morning Glory” (Daygan’s recommendation for a soul-shifting listen)
Glastonbury Connections
* Folk Club at The Becketts Inn (fortnightly) - Welcoming space for all levels
* Irish Session at Rifleman’s Arms (first Thursday monthly)
* Assembly Rooms - Historic venue where the first Glastonbury Festival was held. Daygan recently joined the committee to bring more performance arts to the space.
Find Daygan’s Music
Search “Dragonsfly” (one word, with an ‘s’) or “Maythorne” (with an ‘e’) on YouTube and Spotify
Sarah’s Offerings
Women Who Run With The Wolves Online Course Starting November 12th, every other Wednesday morning
* Work through every story in Clarissa Pinkola Estés’ book
* Use podcast code “PODDLE” for £20 off
Upcoming: Waning Moon Celebration with Rob Bray (Maythorne) - 20th October Glastonbury
Next Episode: Rob Bray joins to discuss the Waning Moon celebration
“It’s like having an ancient grandmother in your pocket that you can ask advice to all the time.”
