starting a performance eventually becomes a swift action. I currently play a paladin VMC bard, so I'm short on swift actions.
Rules
At 7th level, a bard can start a bardic performance as a move action instead of a standard action. At 13th level, a bard can start a bardic performance as a swift action.
Could I still start the performance as a move or standard action?
Strictly optional.
Agreed with manly, 'you can' not 'you must'.