Bard of Caid 2025

The competition for Bard of Caid 2025 generally follows the format implemented in 2015 with some adjustments. Four preliminary rounds including a digital submission round will be followed by the final round of the top three competitors.

Rules

• All bardic pieces, including introductions, cannot exceed five minutes.
• Going over time will result in point deductions.
• Competitors must compete in 3 of 4 preliminary rounds to be eligible for finals.
• Top 3 overall bardic scores will move on to the final round.

• 
• 
• 

Competitors

The competitors to become the 17th Bard of Caid (in alphabetical order):

• Baron Beorn of the Northern Sea
• THL Cesar Alejandro de Baracoa
• THL Galien Crow
• Mistress Genevieve la Minstrelle
• Mistress Mary Dedwydd verch Gwallter

Round 1

The first round, held at Festival of the Rose on February 1, 2025, asked competitors to perform a piece in the theme of the day, which was "Having Fun with Your Art!"

• Round winner: Mistress Mary Dedwydd verch Gwallter

Round 2

Round 2 was held at Western Seas Anniversary, and competitors were asked to compose in two parts, featuring a period piece and a piece related to the theme of the day, "Family and/or Friendship." These each counted as a separate preliminary rounds to allow Western Seas residents an equitable opportunity to compete.

• Round winner: Mistress Genevieve la Minstrelle

Round 3

Round 3 was held at Starkhafn Anniversary on 04/19/2025. Competitors were asked to compose and perform a piece on-site using three words (hearth, mirror and valor) given that day.

• Round winner: THL Galien Crow

Round 4

Round 4 is a digital submission of a period piece, to be sent between 04/20 and 06/13/2025. An extension was provided - new deadline 06/22/2025.

• Round winner: Baron Beorn of the Northern Sea

Finals

Each of the finalists will perform their best piece in person at Summer Coronation (07/12/2025) or via digital submission by 07/01/2025 for the final round. The five minute maximum will apply to this round.

Finalists

The finalists to become the 17th Bard of Caid (in alphabetical order):

• Baron Beorn of the Northern Sea
• THL Galien Crow
• Mistress Genevieve la Minstrelle