Calling all bards, minstrels, and musical enthusiasts! The annual Bardic Competition will be held in the Great Hall next month. Categories include traditional ballads, magical music, instrumental innovation, and comedy. Grand prize is a masterwork instrument crafted by the legendary luthier Harmonius Strings.

Now in its 27th year, the Treasure Tavern Bardic Competition has become one of the most prestigious musical events in the realm. Previous winners have gone on to become court musicians for royalty, enchanted forest guides, and in one notable case, the musical familiar of an eccentric archmage.

This year's competition will feature four categories:

• Traditional Ballads - Renditions of classic tales and songs passed down through generations
• Magical Musicality - Compositions that incorporate magical effects or are enhanced by spellcraft
• Instrumental Innovation - Original instruments or novel playing techniques
• Comedic Performance - Humorous songs, stories, or acts that amuse and delight

Our distinguished panel of judges includes:

• Lady Melodia Silverstring, Royal Court Composer
• Gaxin the Whisper, Three-time Bardic Competition Champion
• Master Harmonius Strings, Legendary Instrument Crafter
• Professor Cadence, Dean of Musical Studies at the Arcane Academy

The grand prize winner will receive a custom masterwork instrument crafted by Harmonius Strings himself, valued at over 5,000 gold pieces. Category winners will receive enchanted instrument strings that never break and always stay in tune, plus a guaranteed performance slot at the Midsummer Festival.

Registration is open now through the end of the month. Entry fee is 5 gold pieces per category, or 15 gold pieces for all four categories. Apprentice rates (for performers under 18 years of age) are available at half price.

Accommodations can be arranged at Treasure Tavern at a special competitor's rate. Please mention your registration when booking.