How to play bard?

Try to poke early with your meeps and always keep a few shrines at safe places (easy to forget). When your mana gets low try collecting a few chimes nearby. If your adc is safe alone or at base try roaming to mid or collecting more chimes before you recall or return to lane.

Your ult is a bit tricky. In most cases it's best used to catch enemies out of position. Note that it becomes increasingly more difficult to hit the further away you are. Another good use is to ult the enemies backline in a fight. That way you have a numbers advantage for a few seconds and fighters and tanks can position themselves right next to the carries. You will occasionally screw over your team with your ults, especially while learning.

In late-game your meeps will have a strong aoe slow on them. Use it to catch enemies or protect your allies. Remember that your heal gives a small speed boost. Even though the heal will be weaker, placing it directly below allies is way more reliable while fighting.

As always, practice makes perfect. You will pick up most tricks simply by playing him.