Musicology questions

[The Souljourner]

I certainly think there's nothing wrong with allowing dance, as long as it follows the rules of bardic music (i.e. no spellcasting). Scharlata has made it clear that this is the case, so there's really no problem. About the only benefit this form has is that you can do it while gagged or in a field of silence... drawbacks are that you can't do it on horseback (unless you're really good) or when you're tied up.... it all balances out in the end.

-The Souljourner

 

[Lord Pendragon]

It's been made clear that dance is being used for Bardic Music by the original poster and, after having stated the RAW, I didn't feel it necessary to continue with it for the original poster's purposes.

But if we're discussing dance as a form of Bardic Music (the original poster already having gotten what he needed and left. ) I would not allow it. Or rather, I would make it disadvantageous enough that I don't think a bard would want to use it.

Bardic Music, in my mind, is a continual effect. Your allies simply cannot be continually watching you dance while they're fighting. So while I would allow a bard to use it if she chose, each ally would be treated as if bardic music had ended (thus starting the 5 round countdown) on their first action after the bard's. And they'd have to spend a full round watching the bard to restart the countdown.

 

[Scharlata]

[...] and left. ) [...][...] restart the countdown.

Hi!

I haven't left; watching your words closely

Why would you do that? Isn't it possible to interchange every performance method just to qualify for BMA?

Kind regards

 

[Lord Pendragon]

Why would you do that? Isn't it possible to interchange every performance method just to qualify for BMA?

To qualify, yes. To use with, no. You'll note that there is a very specific list of acceptable Perform types to use with Bardic Music in the quote I gave above.

And, in this instance, I agree with the RAW, because I don't see how your allies can watch your bardic performance and their melee opponent at the same time. I can't even eat without missing things on a television directly in front of me. Let alone trying to fight for my life and keep my eyes on the dancer over by the horses.

I don't think it will unbalance a game to allow dance or mime or whatever to work with Bardic Music. But I stick with the RAW in my games for this one, because it makes more sense to me.