Why "Piepowder"?
The phrase "Piepowder" is an english derivation of the french phrase "Pied Pouldre" or "dusty foot". It refers to the state of travelling market traders, vendors and entertainers who journeyed through England from the early middle ages, right up to the abolishment of hiring fairs in 1971.
A "Piepowder" is a traveller who makes their living moving from fair to fair in search of new customers and audiences.
Many of the large markets and fairs had special "Piepowder Courts" presided over by a Steward who would have summary powers of judgement only within the confines of the market or fair for it's duration.
As a quartet and individually, the members of Piepowder have travelled the length and breadth of Great Britain, performing all over the country, often feeling a little "dusty-footed" themselves by the end of a tour of engagements. As such, the name "Piepowder" seemed very apt, indicating as it does, both enthusiasm and commitment to performing.