There are a few reasons for such a decision, two of which include the aforementioned blend of styles, part of which allowed use of an instrument I don't play often, and the value the song quickly showed to me.

[So he won't bore anyone by going over what he said to the other judge already.]

One is the fact that many songs of my own writings only see their use on the battlefield. Though many say bards have no place in battle, few that have traveled with one can deny the support in combat that they are capable of. As such, many of my songs exist to cause harm and weakness to foes, and I needn't tell you that such a song has no place in an establishment where many have gathered to enjoy themselves. Many of the songs I play solely for the entertainment of myself or others have been penned by someone other than me, and part of my enjoyment in the performance is bringing their songs to new ears.

[He gives a loose shrug and a small, sheepish smile.]

And there is also the fact that I simply hadn't the time before the competition to pen a song anew. Much of it since arriving has been spent learning the ways of this place and working for other establishments. [And then there was the whole "Estinien arriving" thing...] There is much I hadn't found the time for yet, and learning has been the best way to spend it, newer songs included.