Chapter 322: Taking on a New Apprentice
“Actually, our concert filled 38,000 seats, setting a new record for classical music performances in Tianchao.”
“One month saw the search index for ‘Moonlight and Cat’ in Asia spike by sixteen times!”
“The new album, ‘Moonlight and Cat’s Compilation 4,’ has already sold over 300,000 copies in physical form, breaking yet another record within our country for classical music albums!”
On the dining table,
He Zhi Chen detailed the achievements of the past month, earning the concert the praises it deserved. Speaking on behalf of Lin Tian and Gan Yan Yu, he thanked the assembled guests warmly.
“Today, we can boldly say that we’ve created an epoch-defining classical concert!”
“Hell yeah!”
As He Zhi Chen’s words settled,
Kana initiated the applause.
Everyone joined in.
Having been part of the concert, they were all basking in its glory.
At this celebration feast, their happiness was genuine.
“You’ve all worked hard, teachers!”
With He Zhi Chen going around with toasts, the atmosphere at the table was lively.
“Eat more.”
Lin Tian piled grilled meat onto Gan Yan Yu’s plate non-stop.
Due to them being buried in studies, they hadn’t taken her out for decent meals except for occasional sweets.
This grand celebration feast was her chance to indulge.
Then they could go right back to studying!
Seeing Gan Yan Yu savor a piece of grilled pork belly doused in chili powder and sesame sauce while smiling blissfully,
Lin Tian felt an immense sense of happiness beside her.
“Mr. Lin, hello—”
A voice rang out beside him.
Lin Tian turned to see Anzu Chika, a girl dressed in a hoodie.
Though Cosmic Flying Pig Band had five members, he had a clear image of her—a “Sakura girl,” fluent in Chinese, and always wearing casual outfits compared to her bandmates’ extravagant styles.
She’d never been seen wearing a skirt, adding to her peculiar charm.
“Mr. Lin, thank you so much for giving us the chance to perform.”
Anzu Chika squatted respectfully and shyly expressed her gratitude,
“This is my first time performing on such a big stage, something I never imagined happening.”
“I came to the mainland to develop recently, and the pressure was enormous. I even visited a psychologist last month. It was only after participating in your concert that I found my confidence again. Thank you so much.”
“No need to be so polite.”
Hearing her heartfelt thanks, Lin Tian stood up to help her, laughing,
“I should be the one thanking you for assisting in making our concert a success.”
“No, Mr. Lin, anyone could help! It was your choice to pick us.”
Anzu Chika lowered her head, blushing slightly and stroking her hair.
From the pocket of her hoodie, she pulled out a black, square bottle.
“After our last concert, I wanted to give you something but heard you were busy helping Gan Yan Yu with studies, so I couldn’t meet you then.”
Handing him the bottle, Anzu Chika continued,
“That citrus and mint base quickly captures attention, while the lavender and black pepper middle brings an intriguing balance. Cedarwood, patchouli, and sandalwood bring a lingering depth, ensuring the perfume is rich and suitable for anytime wear.”
Lin Tian took the bottle, puzzled until it sprang open, revealing a spray nozzle.
“Mr. Lin, extend your wrist.”
Lin Tian did so.
Anzu Chika sprayed a cool mist onto his wrist, which carried a subtle fragrance.
“It’s something unique from my family’s perfume shop in Chiba. I thought you might like something fresh and aromatic.”
“I think you’re a rather charming man, Mr. Lin, but I noticed you don’t seem to wear perfume. Try this; it’s light and perfect for you.”
Lin Tian held up his wrist to sniff appreciatively.
Although he never wore perfume himself, this scent felt soothing and fitting.
Just then, as if the air grew tense,
Anzu Chika stared at Lin Tian intently, embarrassment coloring her face.
It felt like she had something important to say but hesitated.
Things just got awkward!
Was she—
Sister, what are you planning?
Lin Tian figured he’d better break the tension.
He glanced towards Gan Yan Yu.
She was flipping pork belly on the grill with focused intensity, as if studying a significant experiment, worried every second could ruin it.
“.”
Lin Tian turned back, feeling conflicted.
“Mr. Lin!”
Anzu Chika suddenly bowed, presenting him with an envelope.
Everyone nearby froze in surprise.
Kana and Yun Qiu Qiu stared blankly.
Gan Yan Yu merely glanced at the envelope, and then returned to her inspection.
Lin Tian’s face flushed in confusion.
What’s this about?!
Glancing back at the bowing Anzu Chika, he couldn’t grasp the context.
Even though he hadn’t made their relationship public, those who were close enough knew how significant their partnership was.
This moment couldn’t come at a worse time!
“Mr. Lin, please…look inside!”
Anzu Chika remained bowed, teeth clenched.
Lin Tian sighed and finally took the envelope.
Opening it, he pulled out a small white notebook.
The first page featured notes:
“?”
Lin Tian frowned.
Flipping through page after page, he was met with dense musical notation and strange markings.
Anzu Chika blushed nervously, watching him.
“These are some songs I’ve composed, never published before.”
“I wonder if Mr. Lin might give me some advice?”
Turning her back straight and waving her fingers eagerly in the air,
“I don’t expect much, even a simple comment would suffice!”
Lin Tian chuckled with sympathy.
So, it was just some music sheets.
He set down his drink and held the book.
While he didn’t compose much himself, he could certainly critique pieces well, drawing from his vast knowledge of music theory, enhanced by skills cards.
He opened the pages and began skimming.
The girl clearly had talent.
She had sketched over ten compositions, her novice handwriting evident from the sloppy annotations.
Lin Tian scanned carefully.
Suddenly, his eyes widened, and his brows relaxed.
“Quite interesting.”
Riveted, he flipped through the pages.
The compositions showed potential!
Though written crudely, each note captured Anzu Chika’s intentions brilliantly.
She wrote pop music infused with classical influences.
“Impressive!”
He admired her dedication.
Incorporating classical into pop wasn’t uncommon, but executed well.
Take “Blue and White Porcelain” by Jay Chou for instance.
Or G.E.M. Deng Ziqi’s use of string instruments in “Beyond Light-years.”
Rui Gang’s classic “New Intoxicated Imperial Concubine” showcased traditional elements beautifully.
And there were numerous examples where classical themes were integrated into modern pop arrangements directly.
Yet, it required skill. A misstep could turn it into an amateurish affair.
Anzu Chika’s compositions showed promise far beyond Lin Tian’s initial expectations.
“Your work is quite good.”
He handed back the book earnestly.
“Really?”
Eyes wide, Anzu Chika exclaimed,
“If you need guidance, I’m happy to offer suggestions.”
She sat up straight and gestured excitedly in the air,
“Just a few pointers, or even notes on weak points—I’d be incredibly grateful!”
“Incredible.”
He smiled.
Indeed, the girl possessed considerable potential for further education, possibly becoming a skilled music producer.
“Are you fond of classical music?”
“Oh yes!”
Promptly nodding.
“Think about drawing straight from excellent classical pieces and infusing modernity.”
He pointed to a page titled “Cascading Waterfall.”
“You could use the intro from my ‘C-minor Symphony No.1 in E minor’ to breathe life into your piece!”
Anzu Chika examined it closely.
“This would indeed enhance it!”
She exclaimed brightly, understanding dawning on her face.
Her melodies, infused properly, would gain new depth.
“I appreciate it, Mr. Lin!”
Her eyes sparkled with excitement,
“I understand my direction now. Thank you greatly!”
But she paused,
“And if I use your work for publication…”
“Just pay.”
He extended his palm, beaming.
“Don’t worry, I’m not taking your money for granted. Your music needs refinement, and I’d gladly teach you.”
He added thoughtfully,
“To preserve my reputation when you use my work for pop!”
Actually, Lin Tian planned this move for a long time!
Adapting classical music for pop was commonplace in other realms.
It benefitted both genres, boosting their reach.
Here, promoting classical via pop seemed ideal.
However, since classical pieces here were often protected:
He sought assistance.
Choosing someone to adapt his works mattered greatly.
Anzu Chika seemed a promising candidate.
She could become his “pop music ambassador”—even if she was inexperienced, he could guide her.
“Perfect!”
She exclaimed gratefully,
“Thank you, Mr. Lin!”
I’ll definitely prepare the rights soon!”
“Sure, I’m free this weekend. Come by to perform.”
“Absolutely!”
With that, she left, clutching her treasured notebook.
At that, Lin Tian also stood up, relieved to have a bathroom break after so long.
But watching her quirky expressions, he couldn’t complain.
Leaving for the restroom, he bumped into He Zhi Chen on the way.
“Heehee, done chatting with Ms. Anzu?” asked He Zhi Chen cheerfully.
“Mm.”
“Heh, even Lin you were drawn in?”
Laughter echoed,
“After all, I’ve never seen such a cute guy before,” He teased.
(End of Chapter)
