Cadenza [BINI Mikha X OC]

Chapter 14: Audition Day

Mondays mark the start of a new week—a fresh cycle of workdays and weekends for students and workers alike. But for Jon's friends, this Monday could very well mark the beginning of their careers in the professional music industry.

In the recording room, a crowd had gathered. Jon's group was there, consisting of Rose, Charles, Ben, Percy, and Elio. Elio, Rose's younger brother, was a new addition, invited to fill in as the group's rhythm guitarist. Their former rhythm guitarist, Zach, had become too busy with his job to join the reunion, leaving an opening in the lineup.

Elio bore a striking resemblance to his sister, with the same wavy chestnut hair, but their personalities were polar opposites. Rose was energetic and lively, while Elio exuded a calm, composed demeanor, similar to Percy. Despite the contrast, Rose had full confidence in her brother's guitar expertise.

Alongside Jon's group were the higher-ups, including two producers, Mark and Aaron, the sound engineer, Martin, and the director, Direk L. In past auditions, musicians would line up outside a room, waiting to showcase their skills in front of the judges. They needed to demonstrate technique, playstyle, versatility, and musical knowledge, which was why Martin, with his music degree, was present to assess their abilities.

But today's auditions were different. There was no need for a queue outside; these musicians were close friends. After exchanging greetings and introductions, the auditions began with Elio, who would audition for the role of rhythm guitarist.

A rhythm guitarist must maintain the tempo and provide a strong backing for the band. They need to be flexible and creative, capable of more than just playing ordinary chords. Elio had to demonstrate these qualities in front of the higher-ups.

As he entered the room, Elio carried a Fender Telecaster—a versatile guitar, suitable for both rhythm and lead roles. While showcasing rhythm guitar skills is straightforward, impressing the judges is another matter. Yet Elio managed to do both by playing a medley of John Mayer songs, starting with "Neon".

Martin smirked as soon as he heard the opening riff, catching Direk L's attention.

"If he's starting with Neon, he's more than capable," Martin remarked.

"Is that song that difficult? It doesn't sound like it," Direk L noted.

"It's a common reaction," Martin replied. "But look at his left hand. The thumb reach required for this song is no joke."

As the song continued, Direk L noticed the technical skill involved and was impressed.

"Now, watch his picking hand," Martin added. "The coordination needed to play this song is above an intermediate level."

Direk L was surprised. Elio was only 18 years old, according to the application form, yet his skill level matched that of the older, more experienced members of Jon's band.

Elio moved on to his next song, Slow Dancing in a Burning Room, showcasing another iconic John Mayer riff. He played the supporting role similar to Mayer's other guitarists, demonstrating his understanding of chords and his ability to complement the lead.

"What do you think, Sir Mark and Sir Aaron?" Martin asked.

"Let's hire him now," Mark responded.

Direk L chuckled. "Impressed, Mark?"

"Who wouldn't be?" Mark replied.

"I have to agree with Mark," Aaron added. "We can move on to the next audition."

With that, Elio was called outside for the results. He thanked the judges and rejoined Jon's group, who congratulated him on a job well done. At just 18, Elio had secured a professional musician's role—an impressive feat for someone so young.

Next up was Charles, auditioning for the role of keyboardist. He played three pieces, each from different genres: classical, synth, and pop. His performance showcased his adaptability, range, and creativity, with improvised notes and chord progressions. It was no surprise when he passed with ease. Many past auditioners had struggled with genre adaptability or lacked creativity, but Charles excelled in both.

Jon might not be the only phenom out there, Martin thought to himself.

Rose was up next, auditioning for the bass guitar role. Female bassists were rare in the country's music industry, as the instrument's thick strings were believed to require stronger hands. But Rose handled the bass with ease, showcasing songs with slapping, fast picking, and syncopated rhythms. She passed the audition without a hitch.

What set Rose apart was her flawless performance. Most bassists Martin had seen would miss a note or two, but Rose played every note with precision, remaining calm and collected throughout. Her ability to maintain her cool under pressure was invaluable, especially during live performances, where musicians often increase tempo to match the crowd's energy.

Next was Ben, auditioning for the role of drummer. He demonstrated his skills across different genres, from the double pedal of metal to the syncopated rhythm of funk and pop, and the explosive energy of rock. Like Rose, Ben's talent was undeniable, and he was hired on the spot.

Finally, it was Percy's turn. The studio didn't typically offer a position like his—a variety instrumentalist. But Percy's ability to play multiple instruments made him an invaluable asset. He showcased his talents on the violin, saxophone, percussion set, and flute, impressing the higher-ups with his versatility.

Percy's unique skill set meant the studio wouldn't need to hire separate musicians for different instruments. Without hesitation, he was accepted.

With the auditions over, the second phase began.

"Jon, you guys ready?" Martin asked.

"Yep. We can start now if you want to."

"Alright, just go in the room and grab your instruments."

Jon and his group entered the glass room and prepped their instruments. The second phase was to test their compatibility as a band. Although they had played together before, it had been years, and now they had a new member joining them. Martin wanted to assess their compatibility after all those years that has passed.

As Jon finished setting up the mics, Martin noticed there were four microphones. One for Jon, who was the lead vocalist, and another for Rose, who also filled the role of a female vocalist. It was surprising, as she played bass guitar, and singing while playing bass was more challenging than with a guitar. But the remaining two mics were for Charles and Ben. Martin was intrigued—he hadn't known they could sing as well. Charles, perhaps, but Ben? A singing drummer was rare.

"You guys ready?" Jon asked.

"Wait a sec. What are we gonna play first?" Ben asked.

"Hmm... something new or something old?" Jon responded.

"Something new," Rose answered.

"Alright, the princess has spoken," Jon remarked.

"How about Fallen?" Charles suggested.

"Oh, that's good. It's been a while since I heard Percy play sax when we were a band," Ben commented.

"Alright, Fallen it is. You guys good with that?" Jon asked for the last time.

Everyone nodded, even the usually timid Elio.

Ben started the song by clicking his drumsticks together.

Click Click Click Click

At the same time, the door opened, revealing three figures.