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I love this piece.

He plays it so beautifully.

That was wonderful. You did great.

Thanks, Van. How have you guys been?

Good. Semester is in full swing but yeah.

How are things at the Phil?

Yeah, really good.

We have a show in a couple weeks,

and then one more in April before the off-season.

Cool. We'll have to come to one.

Yeah, that'd be great.

So, Ross, you're still on track to graduate in May, right?

Yeah, I am, yeah.

Well, don't tell anyone,

but I may not be going back to the Phil next year,

and they'll be looking for a new pianist.

So, yeah, if you're interested, I could put in a word for you.

Where are you going?

Got a couple of things lined up.

Nothing set in stone, but yeah, just let me know.

I mean I don't really know

what post-graduation looks like yet, but you know.

Yeah, I'll let you know.

Always good to have options.

I mean, it can't hurt to try out.

So, see you guys at Harvey's?

We gotta get up early.

Missing out.

So, what'd you think of the concert?

Well, I wouldn't call it a concert.

I mean, he played like three pieces.

Okay, yeah, it wasn't a concert concert, but what did you think?

It was good.

Yeah, he, uh...

I think his interpretations were a little amateur.

To be honest, but...

-Really? -Yeah.

I thought he did great.

I mean, I thought his pieces were really moving.

So, are you gonna take him up on his offer?

That would be amazing to go to the Phil

right after graduating, Ross.

No, I don't wanna be in an orchestra.

I mean, you know that.

I know, but you gotta start somewhere, right?

I think too many people play this

like it's a corporate ladder

with like fallbacks and minor successes

and like Aurélien looks great now,

but he's gonna go stagnant in a couple years

and like he's making a living, you know, but...

-I'm just after more. -Yeah.

Liszt was... a rock star in his day.

I mean, people came from across the globe to see him perform.

He was so flamboyant and revolutionary

that people didn't think it was physically possible

for a human being to play the way he did.

There was even a rumor that he sold his soul to the devil

for his virtuosic talents.

That's just how unbelievable he was.

For Monday, I want you to go and check out

an original Liszt score from the library

and compare it to a performance you find online.

Talk about how the performer adapts the piece

and how you think it might vary

from Liszt's original vision.

I think that's it for today.

Seniors, Professor Veres needs your recital selections

by next Friday so she can approve them.

I really don't need any more

scathing emails from her about that.

Please? Okay.

Dismissed.

Do you know what you're playing for the recital?

No. But I know I want something flashy.

And I think I'm gonna find it in here.

Yeah, fuck that.

I'm probably gonna go with something

from my performance class.

I got all summer to figure it out, though.

This is quite a program.

How well do you have these under your fingers?

Well, I played the Beethoven Sonata

and the Bach Partita before, and...

it's been a minute on the Debussy piece.

But I'm really not that worried about it.

You haven't played "La Campanella"?

No, I haven't. But I think it fits my style really well.

At this stage, I prefer my students select something

already in their repertoire

or something they can easily master.

I'm sure you could have "Gargoyles" by performance time.

But the Liszt usually takes about a year

to get performance ready.

What other options do you have?

All my other pieces were picked by teachers and...

"La Campanella" is the kind of piece I want to get known for.

I don't think that's--

I could swap out any of the others.

I don't think that's a good idea.

And with the time frame, the risk is greater than the reward.

But it's your recital.

You can do what you like. You know, this is a big deal.

Some people secure their first job at this recital.

I know.

Make sure you sign up for the practice slots

by the end of the week.

What was your last name again?

Bennett.

All right. Good luck.

Tell me what you know about the piece.

It's based on a third movement of a Paganini piece.

It's pretty famous. Notoriously difficult.

- But you feel confident? - Absolutely, yeah.

I think it fits my style really well.

I think once I get the big jumps out of my fingers,

I think it should be pretty straightforward.

Yeah. Well, as you know,

I like to think about the context of a piece

as we work on it.

Right there, etude 3 out of 6, solely adapted from Paganini.

Liszt wasn't always the legend you think of him as now

until he heard Paganini's virtuosic talent on the violin.

Liszt wanted to be him, the piano version of him.

I know I always call him the rock star of his day,

but if Liszt was the Beatles, Paganini was Elvis.

This is a piece of admiration, daring, and experimentation.

I'd like to think that I see Liszt

trying to impress Paganini here.

So keep that in mind as you play, and...

let's take it from the beginning.

Next.

What's up Ross? I haven't seen you forever man.

Thought you dropped out or something.

-No, I've just been laying low, yeah. -I feel that. I feel that.

You pick out your pieces for the recital yet?

-Yeah, you? -Oh yeah, for sure.

I got some new ones I'm gonna try out.

Yeah. So what's gonna be your showstopper?

"La Campanella."

Oh, shit.

Ross, that's awesome dude. Congratulations.

Hey, I'm actually playing Liszt too.

His second Hungarian Rhapsody.

Next.

Well listen man, we definitely gotta meet up

and catch up some time bro, alright?

-For sure. -Alright.

Hey listen, if I don't see you before the recital, good luck.

Alright, do your thing.

- Oh, hey, Donovan. - Hey, Jocelyn.

Okay.

Look at me.

Turn your shoulders.

Chin up.

Okay. Looks good.

Oh, can you stay for like ten more minutes?

I wanna get a few more shots of you

for that write-up they're doing on you.

- Yeah, for sure. - Alright, thanks.

Next.

-How were senior portraits? -They were fine.

That's good. I'm excited to see them.

I bet you looked really handsome.

Does it feel weird to be almost done?

Not really.

I think I'm just focused on the recital right now.

That's good.

So, I have to pick a piece out

for my performance class by next week.

And so I went to go talk to my professor today about it.

And I was asking him what piece I should pick

and he said that I should pick

the one that I played to get into the class early.

And today he actually said that it was one of the best

performances he's ever heard.

Oh wow, that's really nice. That's awesome.

Yeah.

So I think I'm probably gonna pick that,

but I kinda wanted to do something

that challenged me a little bit more but...

I was actually looking through some of Liszt's music.

Good luck. This is intricate shit.

What's been the biggest challenge so far?

I mean, there's not like one thing that sticks out.

It's just like a lot of big jumps

that are gonna be a nightmare at tempo.

You got it though. You can handle it.

You've got good reach.

I mean, when I play this thing it's gonna go wild.

You know, it's so...

it's perfect for what I'm trying to do.

You know, I'm thinking...

Cliburn or Chopin competition or maybe agents after this.

I mean, there's no way this doesn't stir something up.

I've always loved your ambition.

What do you mean?

You know what I mean.

You just always had a plan.

You knew what you wanted and you knew how to get it.

Well, it worked with you.

Yeah.

Five years from now

when I'm the biggest concert pianist in the country.

We're gonna have a house in the mountains.

A couple of dogs.

Maybe a kid, cause I'm gonna work and make sure that...

we can have whatever we want.

And you're never gonna have to work a day in your life.

That sounds great.

But I wouldn't get too cocky.

It could just as easily be my name in lights,

cause last time I checked,

I'm the one on pace to graduate with honors.

Well, while you're acing tests I'm perfecting my craft, so...

-Okay. -Okay.

-Prove it. -Okay, I will.

I'm not trying to wait tables any longer than I have to.

Play it for me.

Ready?

I think we should give it a couple more minutes.

Ross, it's already 10 after.

We don't wanna make everyone wait.

Hey, it'll be recorded. We can send it out to people.

It's what everyone prefers now, especially the agents.

Just put on a good show.

I'm starting with Liszt.

What?

Yeah, I'm gonna play "La Campanella" first.

Ross, don't change the program order.

Okay, I got this.

I got this, I can do this.

Good evening.

Hello--Hello... Good evening.

Thank you everyone for coming.

My name's Professor Ethan Franklin.

I'm the first assistant piano area chair.

Tonight, one of our top students

performs at Chester for the final time.

Without further ado, Ross Bennett, everyone.

Who are you?

I don't know.

So how many finals do you have?

I got like two or three.

Not bad, I think I have like five.

-Oh, really? -Yeah.

So do you think you're gonna go back home

after graduation for like a little bit?

No, no, that's like the last thing that I wanna do right now.

What's the plan?

I don't know, I might move to New York this summer

and like try to work things out there. Um...

Kinda been looking at Cliburn Competition a lot

and that's next year.

And I was thinking I could play

all six of the Paganini etudes, so yeah.

Oh, look who it is.

If it ain't the power couple of the year, what's up y'all?

-Hey. -How's it going, man?

-Good to see you. -Good, how are you?

-Good, I'm good. -Yeah.

-My boy. -How are you?

Good, I'm good.

You guys coming to the recital tomorrow night?

Um, we'll let you know if we're able to.

Oh shit.

Ross, you performed last night, didn't you?

Mm-hmm.

I'm sorry, I got tied up in some things

and I was gonna come but I just,

I bet you blew 'em out the water with that La Campanella, though.

Let's just say it wasn't my best performance.

Damn.

Well, I'm sorry to hear that, bro. But...

Hey, look, fuck 'em, all right?

The schools, they over heard these recitals anyway.

I actually got some information about the Chester Philharmonic

if you like, I could pass it over to you.

Yeah, Aruélien was, he was talking to me about that.

He wanted to put my name in but it's just, I don't know.

I just don't think it's really my thing, you know?

Yeah, no, I feel that. I feel that, I'm the same way.

I've actually, you know, been in talks with Boston.

What?

Yeah, they might need an extra set of hands

for a few shows next season, so...

Wait, how'd you swing...

How'd you swing a big five?

Well, I haven't done it yet, my boy.

But as soon as I find out, I'll let you know.

Oh...

Hey, listen, I don't want to interrupt yall's lunch date

more than I already have, all right?

I hope to see y'all tomorrow night but...

I totally understand if not.

-All right. Enjoy the lunch. -Thanks.

-I'll see you, Vanessa. -Yeah, good luck tomorrow, okay?

-Thank you. -Thanks.

Hey, Ross, keep your head up, all right?

-Yeah. -You'll be good.

The friska's coming up, let's see how he handles this.

Ross. Ross, what are you doing?

What are you doing? Come on.

He didn't play the friska.

What?

Thank you.

For you and for you.

-Thank you. -No problemo.

Pretty good turnout, huh?

Everybody's acting like the semester's over.

We have like a month left, you know?

I feel like once you finish your recital,

it's pretty much a done deal.

Faith! Hey!

Hey girl! I was wondering if I'd see you here.

Come get a drink at the bar with us.

Did you notice he only played the first movement?

- At the end? - Mm-hmm.

Yeah.

Definitely a strange decision.

I don't get it. I don't get it at all.

-You know? -It's weird.

Hey! What's up, my boy?

Hey! What's up?

Congrats, man.

Thank you, bro. I appreciate you so much.

-What's up, Faith? -You were amazing.

So good. Oh my gosh. I'm so proud of you.

Thank you for coming. I appreciate it.

Of course.

You look great in your dress by the way.

Thank you. Stop.

Hey, what's up man. Hey, thank y'all for coming out.

They're attracted to the hands, man.

No, they're not.

Yes, they are!

You're telling me you've never caught Vanessa

just lost in thoughts, staring at your hands

while you're playing piano or something.

No.

-What? -No.

Dude, us pianists have it made.

We've got long, slender fingers,

you've got trimmed nails, a few veins going on.

It makes a girl's mind wander.

I'm gonna get a drink.

It's the truth!

What's up, boss?

Rum and coke?

Yeah, you got it bro.

Hey, Ross. I thought I missed you.

How is it going?

I'm fantastic, how are you?

Can't complain.

Looks like I'm going overseas in a few weeks.

I just got a gig in England.

-Wow, nice. -Yeah.

So remember the Phil is looking for a new pianist?

Have you given any more thought about my offer?

So, when nothing happens...

When nothing happens... Like they just go back home, right?

Honestly, I'm good.

I think I'm just going to pursue this solo career kind of hard.

- There you go, man. - Thank you.

I understand.

I was thinking the same thing when I was in my senior year.

But it's tough out there.

You realize pretty quick

how small of a bubble you're in here.

I mean, there's people way above our level, man.

And they're doing it at like 16.

Makes you think a little harder about the future.

I hope you break past it, though.

I'm excited to see what you can do.

Oh, wait.

So, that's what I'm saying. So, right? So they go home.

Out of pocket. Out of pocket.

What on earth is so funny?

We were um...

We were talking about...

We were talking about um... Help. Help me.

- That's her. - You.

-No, that's you. -That's not me.

Ross probably thinks we're fucking crazy, yo.

Probably.

Yo, Floyd. Can we get him a beer?

Yes, sir.

Hey, put it on my tab.

Alright. You got it, dude.

I appreciate you.

Hey, by the way, Ross.

I heard what happened at the recital the other night.

Like I said, don't sweat it.

They like to blow that shit out of proportion, you feel me?

Yeah, man. There are plenty of other opportunities.

Fuck the recital. Nobody comes to them anyway.

Tonight was a pretty good turnout.

We all know each other, though.

It's really just artists supporting artists.

Appreciate the intent, but we all know that's bullshit.

Right?

Wait, where'd you hear about it anyway?

I mean...

You know people talk about performances, Ross.

We were just discussing recitals.

I mean the fucking nerve to bring that shit up

and act like you're doing it out of kindness...

He knows what he's doing. You know what you're doing.

-Yo chill. -You know what you're doing.

I'm not doing anything, alright?

Yeah, you do.

-Yo, quit being an asshole. -I'm being an ass?

Yes.

Donovan, you played one movement tonight

and you act like you're fucking Liszt himself.

It's fucking pathetic.

It's very, very fucking pathetic.

At least I was actually able to play something.

Ross, we should probably go. Come on.

Let's go.

-Ross! -Oh my God!

Shit! The fuck is wrong with you?

Fuck off!

Back off!

Fucking stupid!

-Get the fuck out of here! -I'm gonna take him.

-Okay? -You stay.

-Fuck out of here! -Let's go.

Let's go.

]

Hi. I, um...

I just wanted to apologize for last night.

That wasn't me and I just...

I put you in a really weird position.

I just wanted to say I'm sorry.

That was scary, Ross. I've never seen you like that.

I know. Um...

I haven't really been myself lately.

It's okay.

I know you've been under a lot of stress.

Yeah, it sounds like they're only having seniors play in it.

That's fucking stupid. It's a showcase.

Wouldn't they want the best no matter what year they are?

Hey, hey, I gotta go, but I'll talk to you later, okay bye.

I don't even know if there's tryouts.

They may just pick people.

Oh, hello, Ross. How are you?

I'm all right.

I just wanted to ask you about something if you have a second.

Oh, sure.

I have a meeting upstairs in about 10 minutes, though.

What's on your mind?

I heard a couple people in the library

talking about a showcase,

and I just wanted to know if you knew anything about that.

Not really. It's been discussed. Nothing official.

Gotcha. If that was happening, like, how would selections be?

Would that be auditions or-- Selections or references...

I really don't know, Ross.

I assume it would be a board decision.

I fucked up.

Uh...

And I totally blew it at my recital,

and I don't--I don't know why. I don't--

I don't know what happened, but if this showcase is happening,

then this is the last chance that I got to prove myself.

I'll practice ten hours a day. I'll take criticism.

I'll work with whoever you want me to work with.

Okay, because I know what I stand to lose.

And I'm willing to do whatever it takes to get in that showcase

and blow everyone away.

I understand what you're saying, Ross, and I believe you.

But it's not up to me.

I'm head of piano, but this is a school-wide event.

Look, everyone has setbacks.

The best thing you can do is be prepared

next time you get a shot, hmm?

Unbelievable.

Okay...

You got any idea what this is about?

Jesus...

Sorry to keep you waiting.

Let's get to it.

I'm sure you both heard about the showcase.

Well, it was finalized on Friday

and will be held in about a month.

The program is still being finalized.

Each area will get one slot.

The board was torn between the two of you,

so we decided to have a makeshift tryout.

You'll each practice with me

three times a week for the next four weeks.

After that, you'll each perform for the core board members,

and there will be a final vote.

-Does that work for you both? -Yes.

Absolutely.

Perfect.

I'll send you each a practice schedule by the end of the day.

We only have time for one piece.

Try to keep it under 10 minutes.

I suggest you pick pieces you've already mastered.

Hey, Ross.

Hey, look.

I see how what I said the other night

could have came off the wrong way.

And I'm sorry. Alright?

I hope there's no hard feelings.

It's all good.

Good luck, okay?

Yeah, you too.

All warmed up?

Yeah, I think I'm good.

All right.

"La Campanella."

How well do you think you had this piece done

before the recital?

I think I had it pretty good,

but I mean I can always improve.

Let's hear it then, shall we?

Stop, stop.

Your tempo is all over the place.

Again. One, two, three. One, two, three.

No--

On two. One, two, three. One, two, three.

Dragging.

Quiet! Quiet!

Don't lose the theme!

Alright, alright.

You need to start practicing with a metronome.

Your tempo has to be consistent.

-You need to be quick and nimble. -Yeah.

As soon as you started playing at tempo

you were crushing us.

There are bells at the top, little bell.

"La Campanella."

They're soft, they're constant.

But you still have to bring out the melody.

Here, he literally spells it out for us.

"Ma sempre ben marcato il tema."

But always bring out the theme.

Again.

One, two, three. One, two, three.

Stop, stop.

With my students

I talk about rhyme and rhythm.

You're on rhythm now

but there is no rhyme.

You're doing this.

When you should be doing this.

There's no rhyme.

I don't know what you mean

What do you mean you don't know what I mean?

I don't know it doesn't really make sense what you're saying.

It's musicality do you know that?

Yeah. Yes.

Then you know what I mean.

Don't play like a wind-up monkey.

Give it theater.

That was great.

Now don't do it like an asshole,

and you might actually win over an audience.

Are you willing to be taught or not?

Yes, yeah. Yes.

Then do what is asked of you

and be grateful that someone is willing

to teach you anything at all.

Playing the correct notes

and hitting the right dynamics

is only part of the equation.

What I teach you

will make the difference always.

I mean I wrote down as much as I could,

she's just taking a lot of liberties,

and she's contradicting herself at times too.

Music's subjective, Ross.

I mean these pieces

they are almost 200 years old.

Liszt didn't leave instructions

for every note, I mean nobody did.

She's just trying to give your performance more...

more nuance.

All of her suggestions

are based off of decades of studying music theory.

She knows what she's talking about.

More than you or I do at least.

M-hmm.

I can't.

-I can't. -Not good?

I'm so done with her.

Oh shit if I hear

"Again, again, again, again."

I fucking--I can't deal with her. I can't deal it with her.

Ross, she's hard on you because she thinks you have potential.

She wouldn't waste her time if she didn't.

I can't get through three notes

without her just stopping me for a fucking speech

and then you know half of me thinks

that she just wants to punish me for asking for a showcase spot.

That's not true, come on. That's ridiculous.

She doesn't write anything down!

She does not write anything down

she'll give me a note

and then she wants it implemented then...

Then, like forever and always.

And so then I'm trying to write something down

and then it doesn't make any fucking sense.

Maybe she's trying to convey a feeling.

No, stop. No, no.

Now you sound like her, that's giving me PTSD.

She--

I have to translate what she says

into something practical to use in the music.

Right.

But you're gonna get it.

You will get it.

-M-hmm. -Okay?

No, no, no.

Okay, I know, I know, I know, I know.

It's fine. My hands are

My hands are just a little stiff it's fine.

I could--I did this earlier.

Your thumb is too heavy!

-These are simple runs, Ross. -They're not simple runs!

They're not simple runs. The speed is blistering

and it's fucking freezing in here.

It's not freezing and we warmed up for 15 minutes

you just need to practice this.

I can do this. I've done this before.

Dragging.

There's nothing I can do for you here.

This is just simple preparation,

if you can't play these runs you can't play the piece.

My fingers are cold.

I'm going to tell you something

and it doesn't leave this room.

The board didn't want you.

And why should they?

To them you're just a kid who froze up on stage.

I vouched for you.

I convinced them to have a tryout.

I bought you four weeks.

Prove them wrong.

Yeah he was in our class last semester do

do you remember his name?

Yeah I think you're talking about Darren.

Yeah, Darren. Yeah.

Do you have his number?

Why do you want that crackhead's number?

I just got a couple questions for him, can you send it over?

Sure. You better not do any stupid shit though.

Who do you think I am?

I just have a couple questions for him.

Oh, fuck.

You aren't here to throw more beer at my head are you?

What? No.

Oh, shit. Yeah, sorry about that, I was a little drunk.

Darren said--He sent me here,

he said he was going to talk to you about that.

-Yeah, he told me. -Okay.

Come in.

So how much you want?

How much do you recommend?

I assume you've never taken before.

I'll give you a week's worth. Seven pills, 20 mgs each.

We'll call it a hundred bucks.

-Really? -That's a good deal, bro.

Shit's not easy to get.

Do you want it or not?

Fine, yeah.

How long do these take to kick in?

Depends. Crush those fuckers up

and snort 'em if you want the full experience.

Shit'll hit you right away.

Do you want anything else?

No, I'm good, yeah. I appreciate it though.

I've narrowed down our selection to four of our favorites...

Hi.

Hey.

Did I forget about something?

No, I'm just going to this dinner

that all the big wigs at school are putting on.

Why didn't you tell me? I would have come.

I didn't think I was able to invite anybody, but...

I mean, you're not gonna wanna go to this anyway.

It's gonna be a nightmare.

Are you okay?

Yeah, I'm okay, why?

I just haven't been able to talk to you much,

and I just wanna make sure that you're doing okay.

Are you okay?

Yeah, I'm okay.

I promise.

You know, everything's about to pay off.

Okay.

Okay?

M-hmm.

-What's up, Ross? -Hey.

It's kind of cold outside, isn't it?

Yeah, yeah.

-How's it going, man? -I'm good, yeah, you?

-It's good, I'm good. -Mm-hmm.

This is weird, isn't it?

Supposedly some of the most important people at this school

and I mean, I barely know two of them.

Yeah.

Good evening, gentlemen.

Arthur Parker, head of CCM.

Donovan Fish, sir.

Piano performance major.

Donovan, your reputation precedes you.

And you are?

Ross Bennett, performance as well.

A pleasure.

Ah... I believe it's time, shall we?

Yes, sir.

I can't tell you how excited

we are to have each of you participating in this showcase.

Chester Conservatory

hasn't done something like this in, what, eight years?

I believe it's been nine years, right, Erin?

It's been a long time,

but with the talent pool we had this academic year,

we had to find a way to make it happen.

Right,

and it's an incredible opportunity,

not only for the school,

but for each of you performers starting out in your careers.

We're gonna have a very impressive lineup

of industry folks who will attend.

Well, I think I can speak for all of us students.

When I say how grateful we are,

for yet another opportunity to network

and to put our talents on display.

I mean, to share the stage with all these talented musicians

at such a prestigious school

will truly be an honor of a lifetime, sir.

It's lovely to hear you say that, Donovan.

Oh, I am so sorry.

Um... I should have mentioned something sooner,

but I have a severe shellfish allergy.

Oh no. Oh my God, what were we thinking?

We should have sent something out for food allergies.

I'm so sorry, Donovan--

Miss, can we get a fresh plate, please?

No shellfish this time?

Thank you.

I'm really sorry, I don't mean to be a nuisance.

It's just, you know, even the sight of shrimp

could send me to the emergency room, so.

Well, that's a tragedy, an unspeakable tragedy,

if I do say so myself.

Believe me, sir, I am well aware.

I am very well aware.

Although, after what I've heard, you know,

a good shrimp scampi might very well

be worth that hospital bill.

You know what, matter of fact, bring the shrimp back.

I would love some more.

This one's a character, Lisa.

I can't imagine

what it's like having lessons with him.

Oh, he's crazy, very crazy.

But when it comes to work,

he's unbelievably focused.

A natural talent.

Excuse me, sir?

Excuse me?

Can I help you?

Yeah, where's the bathroom?

It's over there.

Thanks.

Absolutely, I personally find Chopin

to be the single greatest classical composer of all time.

I mean, his nocturnes.

Simply amazing.

Some of the finest music ever put to paper in my opinion.

It's hard to argue against.

It was Debussy who said,

"Chopin is the greatest of all,

for with the piano alone,

he discovered everything."

I would disagree.

Chopin was revolutionary, there's no doubt about that,

but I'd actually argue that Liszt was the best.

Liszt?

That's interesting.

How do you figure that out, Ross?

In my mind, classical music

would be nothing compared to what it was,

compared to what it is now in terms of popularity.

Liszt brought it to the masses. He brought the intrigue.

Well, I think it's a bit of a stretch

to say that Liszt alone created intrigue

for classical music.

I don't think it is.

He expanded it beyond what anyone thought possible

and took the art to places that no one had ever gone before.

Much to Chopin's envy.

Chopin was never envious of Liszt.

He just wasn't much a fan of his theatrics.

But they respected one another.

So much so that Liszt even composed pieces

inspired by Chopin's pieces.

Another example of Liszt using his reach to highlight others.

You know, Lisa, if I didn't know better,

I would think that we were at a dinner

with two music scholars.

Which-- Which I suppose we are,

but you both have a deep understanding of this world.

There' a reason you performed Liszt for your recital.

And why, I assume, you plan on performing it for the showcase,

it's the same reason I am.

Liszt captivates, right?

He...

He wows.

I'm performing Liszt because I'm trying to show

a broad range of skills to professionals.

That does not make Liszt any better than Chopin.

You know, oftentimes

the simplest of music is the most profound.

If I were to play Chopin for a five-year-old,

well, they'd cry.

And if I were to play Liszt,

well, they'd merely die of boredom.

Five-year-olds can't purchase concert tickets, can they?

Well, let's put Chopin to the test then, shall we?

In a room full of exquisite musicians.

Where have you been?

I was in Decker. I fell asleep in one of the practice rooms.

Why didn't you respond to any of my text or calls?

I literally almost called the police, Ross.

I'm sorry, okay.

I was asleep. I couldn't help it.

I'm really worried about you, Ross.

Is it the showcase?

Can you tell me what's going on, please?

I don't know how to help you

if you don't tell me what's going on.

I just, I can...

I can-- I can feel it. And it's...

It's creeping up on me and it's...

It feels like last time. It's just...

I feel it slipping away...

-It's okay. -From me...

It's okay. It's okay.

You're okay.

It's okay.

Hi. Sorry, I'm late. My class went along.

How are you doing, Ross?

Why? What do you mean, with the scales?

No, personally.

Finals going okay?

Yeah, they're. Um...

Fine, yeah.

Getting enough sleep?

I'm fine. Where do you want to start?

Your girlfriend came to talk to me this morning.

She's worried about you.

About your health.

I don't want this process

to have a negative effect on you.

That's not what it's meant for.

She doesn't need to worry about anything.

I'm busting my ass for this.

She doesn't understand what something like that can take.

Okay. Just making sure.

Let's pick it up from 120. On you.

Ross! Yo, Ross!

Where the hell have you been, man?

I've been trying to get a hold of you.

You missed Franklin's final yesterday.

Yeah, sorry. I forgot about that.

Are you still going to be able to pass?

I don't know. Um...

I'm just focused on the showcase right now.

What the fuck are you talking about?

You graduate in a week.

Why throw it away now?

What the fuck...

Ross.

Ross, I'm worried about you, okay?

Please don't fuck this up this late in the game.

God, I wish everyone would stop worrying about me.

I'm a fucking adult, okay?

I appreciate the concern, but...

You know a degree means nothing to me. It never has, okay?

Are you fucking serious right now?

This will help us get a better idea

of how it will actually sound during the performance.

We can adjust the dynamics

just so you get more comfortable with this piano.

Where would you like me to start, Miss Veres?

Oh, top of the friska.

We already know what the beginning sounds like in here.

I'll just sit back and enjoy the show.

I just don't get it.

I mean, how does that happen here?

To him?

I mean, what kind of person does that to somebody?

Especially to him?

Donovan's never said a bad word about anybody.

It's probably somebody just trying to rob him.

You know, there's really bad people out there, Van.

I mean, that's why I tell you not to walk alone at night.

I just hope he'll be okay.

The audition would have been tomorrow,

but given the circumstances,

I don't think it would be much of an audition, would it?

I'd say congratulations,

but I'm sure it doesn't seem very celebratory.

You'll still play for the board tomorrow

just so there are no surprises for them.

That will be in place of the audition.

Got it.

I was wondering if from now on I could play

in the performance hall

just so I could get comfortable in there

and learn that piano.

I don't see why not. Um...

Now let's take it from the top.

I'm sure you remember from dinner but this is Erin Marks

Orchestral Conducting,

Lucas Monteiro,

Composition, and Dr. Parker, CCM.

Good to see you again, Ross.

Are you warmed up?

Yeah, I think I'm good.

Good, well, why don't we have a seat

and you can begin for us.

Very nice, Ross.

Guys, do you have any notes for him?

Doctor, do you have anything?

Ross, I'm not going to tell you what you want to hear.

I'm gonna tell you what you need to hear.

You read the music, you played the notes,

but that was just about it.

I'm an admirer of Franz Liszt's

and one of the things that he was great at,

was putting on a show.

He composed pieces like this to put on a show.

and to simply sit at the piano

and pound out the notes

does it a grave disservice.

This piece won't be ready next week.

Maybe not next year.

I'm not saying this to be harsh. You have talent.

And it would be a shame

to not see that talent used correctly.

I agree, Ross.

You've made significant progress in the last couple of weeks.

And for that I commend you.

But a musician cannot hide behind their instrument.

You cannot use it for fame and notoriety.

It uses you.

That's a shift in mindset you need to make.

Erin, you have anything?

I would just say, as a general note...

Hi, how'd it go?

It was a waste of fucking time, that's how it went.

Why was it a waste of time?

Because they're a bunch of old fucks who are disgusting

and time has passed them by, and the only thing they can do now

is shit on those who are better than them.

What'd they say?

Nothing, there wasn't fucking nothing.

There was no tangible piece of advice

from fucking any of them.

They just kept going on about how I don't feel anything,

how I need to let this fucking shit use me

and then they're pissed that I'm reading sheet music.

Why the fuck are they pissed that I'm reading sheet music?

That's what it's there for.

Everybody knows that.

They're just full of shit and it's disgusting.

They can't even see straight. And then Veres, fucking Veres.

She just agrees with everything they say.

She's a fucking wind up doll.

No spine, fucking prick.

And then she's had every opportunity

to tell me what I'm doing wrong.

Okay, she wants to fucking embarrass me

so she just tells me that I'm fucked

in front of all of them.

Jerking off the fucking board in front of me.

And they're just pissed that they don't have Donovan.

That's what it is, everybody's fucking pissed

they don't have Donovan.

Everybody's fucking sobbing, fucking crying,

fucking drooling over his fucking hospital bed.

It's disgusting.

People need to grow up and move the fuck on with their life.

How's it going?

Fine.

That's good.

Can I tell you something?

What?

When I was 12...

I went to visit my grandma in a nursing home.

She'd been sick...

for a while

and my granddad couldn't take care of her anymore, so...

We were in the commons area of the nursing home.

Her family was there,

and my granddad was talking about,

how they met.

Their wedding,

When my dad was born.

When I was born.

And she leaned over to me

and she asked me if I could play the piano.

So I went up and I played

a piece on the piano that they had there.

I played Chopin's "Prelude in E Minor".

It's so simple.

But so beautiful.

I played it because...

I wanted to transport them

to the times that they were talking about.

And I wanted all of us to go there together.

To share that.

Because for some reason...

I felt that that was probably the last time that we were all

gonna be together.

And it was.

But that was the first time...

that somebody cried for my performance.

And I wasn't worried about...

the technicalities or the precision.

I was playing from my heart.

And I was taking what I was feeling

and I was giving it back to them.

It was my way of saying goodbye.

So every time I go on stage,

I picture them in the audience

and I play for them.

Because that was my proudest moment.

I think...

that may be what you're missing.

Taking what you're feeling and...

and giving it to someone else,

sharing it with them.

I think that you could really benefit

from something like that, Ross.

Every time I've sat behind that...

piano, you know, I've...

I've given it everything I had.

That's something that hasn't changed

and that's not something that's going to change.

-Right, I was just saying-- -And today's been riddled

with a lot of people giving me advice

telling me that I should do this,

or I should do that,

and they're giving me comments,

they're giving me a lot of fucking comments.

And nobody's realizing that I'm the only one with the guts

to play this goddamn piece.

-Right, and I was just saying-- -And how dare you,

you're sitting over there and you tell me

that I don't play with enough emotion.

I didn't say that, Ross!

You know, I think from now on,

maybe just keep your fucking mouth shut.

Okay? You can't play this piece.

You could never have played this piece

in a thousand years, so don't sit there and act like you can.

Vanessa, I have this. I always have.

What the fuck is wrong with you?

What do you mean what the fuck is wrong with me,

what the fuck is wrong with you?

You just defend everyone else. That's all you ever fucking do.

Aurélien, fucking Donovan, okay?

And now you're going to try and tell me what to do?

What are you talking about?

What do you mean, what am I talking about? Are you fucking dumb?

You sobbed like a fucking child

when you heard about Donovan.

I can't be upset about our friend who's hurt.

He's not our friend. He's not our friend,

I've told you how much I hate him.

Okay, well, he's my friend, Ross.

Really, he's a fucking friend?

I saw you the other night

you were laughing at everything he said.

You were in his fucking lap the whole night.

It's disgusting.

You're insane. You're insane.

You wish I was insane.

But I'm right.

Because you want to fuck him.

You just want an excuse to go fuck him.

So go on. Fuck him!

And it's going to be the worst fucking mistake you ever make.

Because I am the fucking best!

I am the fucking best!

You can come down now.

You're still dragging at 130,

but we'd rather get it clean than stay at tempo.

The chords are brutal there.

Did I let the instrument use me?

Did I, um, did I play with enough emotion?

I hope the critique from yesterday

didn't affect you in the wrong way.

That was very valuable advice from qualified people.

How are you doing, Ross?

I know critique can be tough,

but you mustn't let it affect your confidence,

especially not before a performance.

I feel fine. I feel great.

The question is how do you and the board feel about this,

I know you didn't get your first pick?

What do you mean?

I know you wanted Donovan.

Okay? I know...

I know he was your first pick.

I know that I didn't stand a chance since we started, okay?

But he's not an option anymore.

I could tell you were threatened by him.

I wasn't threatened by him. He was competition.

And I knew I'd go farther to get the part.

Your focus should be on the art not winning.

And artists should aim to push their medium forward,

not the other way around.

I am pushing this medium forward by competing to be the best

who has ever been by pushing the boundaries.

You aren't pushing anything forward if you push others down

on your way to the top.

If people fall down on their way to the top, then that's on them.

They weren't going to contribute much anyways.

People getting these pats on the back

and adulation for things they don't deserve,

that's the shit that holds this artform back.

Okay, they're fine

with their fucking stature and their work, and I want more,

and I will not apologize for that.

I'll see you at the showcase.

Chill out, bro.

Feelin' the aches?

No, I just need some for my show tomorrow.

How much you want?

However much this is going to get me, that's like 200 bucks.

Can I just get one before you count it?

Sure, man.

No problem.

There's a crusher on the dresser.

I thought that was your car I saw the other night at the bar.

Didn't get a good look at it the last time

you were here but, no doubt about it now.

What did you just give me?

Get the fuck out.

Kennedy. Kennedy.

They're trying to kill me, Kennedy. Help me...

They're trying to kill me. I need you to come help--

Ross.

Ross.

Ross, get up.

What happened?

Don't know.

I think you got some bad stuff.

How'd you...

How'd you find me?

You were sharing your location with me.

What time is it?

It's like two, man.

-No. -What are you doing?

I gotta get to the...

I need to shower and then...

Pick up my suit, get to the rehearsal hall by 6:30.

You can't be fucking serious right now.

I'm fine.

You almost died last night, Ross.

I'm okay. I just need to shower.

Ross, get-- Ross!

What? What?

Look, man, a detective came by a couple days ago.

He asked about Donovan.

And then they asked about you.

Okay, what did you say?

I just answered his questions.

About the showcase.

And the bar.

Okay?

It was you, wasn't it?

You attacked him.

That's fucking stupid, Kennedy.

You know I wouldn't do shit like that.

Stop being fucking ridiculous, okay?

Don't fucking lie to me, man.

I heard about his injuries, dude.

His broken hand...

His foot...

His right foot.

What's the name?

Ross Bennett.

I'm not seeing you on the list.

Well, I'm performing, I'm the pianist.

Yeah man, you're not on here.

Wait, so I can't go in?

Can't let you in if you're not on the list.

Oh my fucking god.

Okay.

Okay, I think I left my phone.

Can you just, can you go tell Veres that I'm here?

She knows I'm performing.

Yeah. Just wait here a minute.

-Yo. -Hey.

One second.

What the fuck is taking so long?

I have to get in there, I have to warm up, I have to rehearse.

All right, what is, where is she?

They're looking for the lady. If she doesn't come out,

it's not my fucking problem.

God, you're taking your job way too fucking seriously.

Okay?

Oh thank god, will you just tell

this guy that I'm supposed to be inside performing?

You can go around front and buy a ticket like everyone else.

What?

You're out, Ross.

You failed three of your classes

and didn't even show up for your final exams.

You're not graduating.

And I am not going to allow you

to represent our school on that stage.

Are you serious?

You're gonna throw your whole department away

for this fucking bullshit?

Oh, my department will still perform.

-If you're not going inside-- -You shut the fuck up.

Oh!

Ross.

What are you doing here?

They gave you my spot.

I didn't know it was your spot. They didn't tell me.

Well, all the spots were filled.

The only way you would get one is by taking mine.

I don't know what to say, Ross. They asked me and I said yes.

I wanted to tell you.

I did.

I wanted to tell you, but you were so mad at me

the last time we spoke, so I didn't.

I'm sorry you're not gonna get to play, Ross.

I know how much this meant to you, but...

this is a really big deal for me.

I never thought that I would get an opportunity like this.

Yeah, see, I didn't think you'd get this opportunity either.

Because you shouldn't have gotten this opportunity

so how did you?

Professor Veres overheard me playing--

No, no, I don't want any more of your bullshit stories.

Why are you here?

Why can't you just be happy for me?

Why can't you just be happy for me?

What did you do? What did you do?

Did you tell Veres more stories about me?

-No! -What?

About how I'm going fucking crazy?

Did you suck one of the board members' dicks?

Did you fuck one of them?

Tell me how the fuck you're here right now!

Maybe I'm just better than you.

That's impossible for you to even think that, right?

That I'm better than you?

You practice day and night for a reason, Ross.

You're not talented.

And everyone has tried to tell you.

I have tried to tell you.

You play like a goddamn robot.

You're so fucking obsessed with becoming famous,

you don't even know how to feel anymore.

You're nothing!

You are nobody!

Miss Lyles. You're on next.

We're ready for you to stand by.

Stop! Stop!

Fuck off! Fuck off!

Stop fucking throwing!

Fuck off!

Fuck!

Fuck off! Fuck off!

I did it!

I did it.

I did it.