Phoenix Rising: From Heartache to Heroism

Chapter 252 Who is Better?

Hattie's zither performances are undeniably enjoyable.

Nonetheless, as previously noted by Darwin, her playing lacks a sense of connection between herself and the music. Her emphasis seems to be solely on demonstrating her technical prowess, resulting in a noticeable absence of emotion. A zither piece without emotion is dry.

The technique is crucial, but achieving top-tier musical tones also requires time for maturation and refinement. Many aspects are perceptible to listeners attuned to music.

The music concluded.

Darwin applauded, "Well done, Miss. Your dedication to zither practice is evident. Yet, I can only award you eight points."

Hattie's expression darkened, her gaze intense.

"Why?" she inquired.

Darwin responded, "I've already explained my reasons earlier. I prefer not to repeat myself."

"Violeta, please."

While Hattie was performing on the zither moments ago, Violeta had already applied her finger picks.

She offered the owner a slight smile, saying, "Okay."

Then, she cast her eyes down to the strings, mentally tracing the musical score. Her initial notes mirrored Hattie's exactly.

However, as the piece progressed into its middle section, distinctions began to emerge.

Hattie's rendition of "Beyond the Ridge" lacked depth in its complex emotional shifts.

However, Violeta's performance highlighted the emotional changes within the music and contrasts in dynamics when plucking the strings.

As Darwin listened, his satisfaction grew steadily.

The primary distinction between Violeta and Hattie lies herein.

the divergence lay

growing admiration, while Hattie struggled to discern what made Violeta's

was slightly taken aback by Violeta's ability to play the zither. However, apart

The music concluded.

clapped beside them, "Clap clap

your performance

have a deep understanding of this piece. It's remarkable to see someone your age play

Hattie was taken aback.

"Why? Where do Violeta and I differ in the

Darwin sighed, "Emotion."

contrasts in string plucking. Hattie, that's where the gap lies between you two."

Indeed, she was perplexed.

and

zither, so had Violeta. The distinction lay in the amount of time Violeta had invested, not less than Hattie.

insisted on awarding Violeta a perfect ten

total, Hattie had 16 points, whereas

not to contest the decision at that

it. Could Violeta really play

to flip through the music

"Next song, 'Dahlia Lullaby""

insisted, "Let me go

"Sure."

She began to play.

"Dahlia Lullaby" painted a picture of graceful and vibrant dahlia

perfect score for

the piece concluded, the onlookers joined in

"Amazing performance!"

"Indeed, so bea

in playing the

experienced a sense of satisfaction upon hearing the compliments from

a quick look