act18side

I won't say there was no improvement.

And considering how the two of you have only been practicing for a day, I shouldn't expect too much.

But it doesn't seem that any of the problems from before have been fixed.

None of the problems from before have been fixed? How could that be––

You're reacting a lot faster now, Ebenholz, but you're still getting carried away in your own passages as if you're trying to show off. In the end, you still need Kreide to accommodate you.

You're not even familiar with the music yet, so what are you trying to show off for?

And then there are those ornaments. You managed to hit them all, but it's making your breathing completely uneven. What's the point of that?

Kreide, on the other hand, is more solid in comparison. His main problem is insufficient mastery, something that can be solved with more practice.

But at the end of the day, 'Morgen und Abend' is a duet. It is impossible for one person to constantly be accommodating the other.

In all honesty, I would prefer to strike 'Morgen und Abend.'

Herr Czerny...

What is it?

How about this, can we try again with you accompanying Ebenholz on piano?

Are you sure that's a good idea?

I won't be playing around him like you do. Don't blame me if he makes an utter fool of himself.

It'll be fine.

(Whispers) Chipper up. I know you can settle this in one go.

(Nods)

Are you ready?

(Takes a deep breath)

Let's go.

––How's that!

Herr Czerny...

Your braggadocio hasn't changed at all. What do you take your flute for? A tool to help you show off?

However...

I had no intention of matching your rhythm at all, but you more or less managed to stay steady throughout your part.

It's clear to me now that while Kreide IS accommodating you, he's covering for your bad habits rather than for a lack of skill.

While there's still ample room for improvement, you've at least met my minimum threshold.

So that means...

You pass.

Fantastic!

(Lets out a long sigh)

I won't pull my punches though. I've already had to lower my standards to rock bottom today.

I may ask you to show me your progress at any time. If you're still playing at this level before the concert, I will not let you step onto that stage. Am I clear?

Rest assured!

Additionally, Kreide, you're playing on a mass-produced instrument right now, and it is only for emergency use. I would still recommend you find something else.

But the one you gave me is...

Don't worry, I'll cover you.

Oh?

Let's go shopping tomorrow morning. I'll get you the very best.

What is it?

So I was telling you about His Majesty, right? His Majesty's prophecy!

No foolin'? Tell me more about it while we walk. I'd like to hear it again, in detail...