Halambar Lutes & Harps

Halambar Lutes & Harps was a musical instrument shop in Waterdeep in the 14th century DR. It was owned and run by Kriios Halambar, who was also guildmaster of the Council of Musicians, Instrument-Makers, & Choristers since circa 1301 DR. It was also sometimes called Halambar's Lute Shop.

Rumors and Legends

Standing upon a velvet-draped plinth, high out of reach, was the legendary Harp that Sings by Itself. It gently played various old songs of the North, but its full magical powers were forgotten. It was not for sale and protected against theft.

Purpose / Function

As its name said, Halambar Lutes & Harps sold stringed instruments of all kinds from around Faerûn, including Amnian lyres and the Mintarn twostring, but mainly lutes and harps. They were pricy, though: regular instruments—typically small and plain and made by Halambar's apprentices or bought secondhand—cost a few hundred gold pieces, while Halambar's own didn't cost less than 1000 gp.
Halambar's lutes produced a distinctive mellow sound. but how they did this was his trade secret.
The store also sold enchanted jewel cases and snuff boxes that, when opened, played a single short tune. These cost 600 gp, making them gifts for the wealthy only.
Bards and musically inclined adventurers could also register at Halambar's Lute Shop.

History

Halambar Lutes & Harps was established some time before 1357 DR, and was certainly well known through the 1360s DR.

Tourism

The shop was recognized all along the Sword Coast for the distinctive sound of its lutes, and Volothamp Geddarm noted it was worth visiting even for the non–musically talented. In particular, the Harp that Sings by Itself was a famed magical instrument in its own right.

Type

Shop, Generic

Parent Location

Castle Ward