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.

both possessed impeccable skills, the divergence

with growing admiration, while Hattie

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

The music concluded.

clapped beside them,

your performance

this piece. It's

Hattie was taken aback.

stood up from her chair and exclaimed, "Why? Where do

Darwin sighed, "Emotion."

continued, "When Violeta plays, the piece showcases emotional changes and stark contrasts in string plucking. Hattie, that's where the

Indeed, she was perplexed.

key difference between her and Violeta was decades of

amount of time Violeta had invested, not less

Violeta a perfect

total, Hattie had 16 points, whereas Violeta scored a

higher score compared to Violeta, Hattie chose not to contest the decision at

couldn't believe it. Could

to flip

"Next song, 'Dahlia Lullaby""

insisted, "Let me

"Sure."

She began to play.

of graceful and vibrant dahlia flowers swaying

perfect score

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