Overview

Minstrels are the healers of LOTRO and are very capable in their role.  They sport strong defenses which makes shutting them down a very hard task.  They can also have moderate offensive capability when in Warspeech.  Minstrels are typically the primary targets of the creeps.

Tactics

• If you see a Minstrel in Warspeech, don't worry about it healing others.  Their healing is halved.  But don't forget that they can turn off Warspeech at any time.
• Warspeeching minstrels can stun a reasonable amount of time.  Use Cry resistance to prevent this.
• The Minstrel's larger heals have a large induction time.  Interrupt these when you see a glowing green circle at their feet.
• Banners of Terror work great in reducing Minstrel effectiveness as it negates much of their in combat power regeneration.  No power = no healing.
• Minstrels defensive skills are several
  • A blue bubble which redirects all damage to their power.  Stuns break this shield.
  • A feign death skill which prevents them from taking any damage.  This can last up to 30 seconds.  Switch targets immediately and have someone watch the minstrel for when it gets back up.  Hobbit minstrels have another feign.
  • Minstrel fear which breaks on damage
• Minstrels have one combat rez if the legendary trait is slotted and otherwise have a nearly no cooldown out of combat rez.  Try to keep them in combat to prevent them from rezzing dead freeps.