This is fascinating! So, if I have this right, the re-enactor and Renaissance Fair folk: a) do this as a fun hobby; b) are "history buffs" in an amateur sense, not in an academic one; c) not particularly concerned with historic fact and accuracy (although apparently some are more "authenticity" driven than others); d) the music is seen as part of the experience, and an opportunity to perform theatrically, rather than demonstrating their musical talent, and e) that more than anything else, participating in these weekends is like playing a part in a play/pageant, with music being more incidental than central to the event.

However, I'm still a bit clueless about these societies which seem to be part of this? The Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA) and Poculi Ludique Societas (PLS)--does one need to be a member of these societies to perform at these events?