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.

possessed impeccable skills, the divergence lay

Violeta with growing admiration, while Hattie struggled to discern

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

The music concluded.

beside them, "Clap clap

performance was

deep understanding of this piece. It's remarkable to see someone your age play with such skill.

Hattie was taken aback.

exclaimed, "Why? Where do Violeta and I differ in the completeness

Darwin sighed, "Emotion."

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

Indeed, she was perplexed.

key difference between her and Violeta was decades

so had Violeta. The distinction lay in the amount of time Violeta had invested, not less than Hattie. Music, like people, requires accumulation. Hattie was reluctant to

on awarding Violeta a perfect ten score,

points, whereas Violeta scored a perfect

higher score compared to Violeta, Hattie chose not to contest the decision at that moment. "Let's begin! Next

couldn't believe it. Could Violeta really play better

continued to flip through

"Next song, 'Dahlia Lullaby""

"Let me

"Sure."

She began to play.

of graceful and vibrant dahlia flowers swaying

perfect score

concluded, the

"Amazing performance!"

"Indeed, so bea

playing the

satisfaction upon

quick