Clear the Lou
In the grand auditorium of Guanghui High School, the lights gently spill across the stage, filling the air with anticipation. Everyone holds their breath, waiting for the first note of the piano to sound.
When Su Feiyan's fingertips lightly touch the keys, Debussy's "Clair de Lune" begins to flow softly, like a gentle breeze that stirs the heartstrings of everyone present. The notes are soft yet full of strength, like a faint beam of moonlight quietly piercing through the darkness. The audience feels as if they've been transported to a tranquil night, where the soft glow of the moon gradually spreads over the earth. At first, they only see a faint ray of moonlight breaking through the clouds, but as the melody continues, the moonlight grows brighter. Slowly, a full moon rises into the night sky, its soft light spreading across the world. It's not as dazzling as the sun, yet it cannot be ignored, bringing a sense of peace and warmth.
Su Feiyan's fingertips seem to merge with the piano keys, each note telling a story. In this melody, he feels not only the beauty of the music, but also the deep emotional bond he shares with his teachers and classmates. Each note seems to convey his gratitude for his piano teacher, his care for his classmates—those who have quietly supported him in class and life, like moonlight, gently lighting his path.
As the music nears its end, the moonlight begins to fade, and the night returns to stillness. The last note fades away, and the entire auditorium is silent, as if everyone is still immersed in that dreamy night. Su Feiyan stands up and gently withdraws his fingers, bowing deeply to the audience. In that moment, his heart is filled with contentment, for he has not only moved the audience with the music but also touched himself.
He remembers the words his teacher once told him:
"Feiyan, do you know what the best music is?"
"Is it advanced technique? Or flawless performance?" he had asked curiously.
"Those are important, but they're not the most important," the teacher had said, ruffling his hair. "The best music is when you immerse yourself completely, forget everything, and pour your emotions into every note. Only then is your music the most moving."
When Su Feiyan stepped down from the stage, the applause was still ongoing. His piano teacher patted him on the shoulder, a look of pride on his face. "That was a perfect performance. I didn't expect someone as young as you to reach this level of immersion. I'm proud of you."
His mother stood in the audience, tears streaming down her face. She was overwhelmed with pride for her son, trying to calm herself while smiling at Su Feiyan. "Xiaoya actually acted like a lady this time! She listened quietly to the entire piece without saying a word or moving at all. This has never happened before!"
Hearing this, Su Feiyan couldn't help but smile, and others laughed along with him. His younger sister, Su Siya, pouted, protesting softly, "Mom, it wasn't that exaggerated!"
At that moment, Lin Xi courageously walked over to Su Feiyan and softly said, "That was the most beautiful 'Clair de Lune' I've ever heard." Her voice was soft, yet sweet like sugar, carrying sincerity and emotion. After speaking, Lin Xi lowered her head, unconsciously twisting the hem of her shirt, trying to hide her shyness.
Hearing these words, Su Feiyan's heart warmed. He realized that Lin Xi's compliment made him feel more fulfilled than any applause. It was a special feeling, indescribable yet deeply moving.
His mother, smiling, added, "By the way, Lin Xi, she couldn't take her eyes off you while you were playing!"
She deliberately lowered her voice, but it was still clear to Lin Xi. The girl's ears flushed pink, her cheeks followed suit, and soon her whole face was as red as a ripe apple. "I… I'll go now, Auntie, we'll talk next time!" she said, quickly turning and walking away, her steps light but with a touch of fluster.
Watching her retreating figure, his mother shook her head with a smile. "Such a shy girl."
As the host announced the end of the performance, the lights in the auditorium gradually brightened. The concert came to a close, but the melody of "Clair de Lune" lingered in everyone's hearts, never to be forgotten.
The crowd began to make their way out of the auditorium. The piano teacher slowly walked up to Su Feiyan and gently patted his shoulder, asking in a low voice, "Did you get used to that piano?"
Su Feiyan froze for a moment, then widened his eyes. "Teacher, did you change the piano?"
"Yes, I had it swapped just for tonight, knowing you often practice in the music room and are more familiar with this piano. How do you like it? Pretty good, right?" The teacher's voice carried a hint of pride.
Su Feiyan felt a warm glow in his heart, as if gently embraced by the moonlight. He clenched his fists and silently said, "Thank you, Teacher."
In that moment, he understood that, just like moonlight, those who quietly give without expecting anything in return are just as warm and unforgettable.