Chapter Text
After their keyboardist quit because of personal reasons, Yeji, the band leader was stressed out to find a new replacement. They need to find a new keyboardist as fast as possible because they were asked to represent their university in performing in Korea and Yonsei University’s sports competition, particularly at the basketball's halftime next month. And for the band, this is a very big jump to their gigs. They are used in playing in small gigs and busking but aside from performing during the university festival, this is huge.
They've been having auditions for the last couple of weeks however they haven't found the right person for the position. Until Yuna, their drummer, suggests her cousin, Lia.
All the band members are present for Lia's audition. They are at Yeji's former garage now their band studio where most of the practices and songwriting are held. "So, before we start the audition let me introduce ourselves. I'm Yeji, the band leader, and the bassist. That's Ryujin, our lead guitarist," Yeji said pointing to her right. "And beside her is Chaeryeong, our rhythm guitarist, and of course you know Yuna," she continued.
They all waved a small hi to Lia as their way of greeting. Of course, Lia knows about them. They've been playing at the university since her freshman year and to be part of their band is a dream come true. "It's nice to meet you," she greeted.
"So can you tell us something about yourself?" Yeji asked.
"I'm Choi Lia, a third year Psychology major. I play a little bit of piano and I was part of a choir when I was in middle school."
"How would you rate your playing skills?" Ryujin asked.
"About 5 out of 10?" she answered. And that’s the safest rate that she would give to herself knowing that she’ll get evaluated.
"Average, huh? We'll see about that," Chaeryeong said. Lia laughs nervously.
"OK, we'll start with your keyboard skills. Whenever you're ready," Yeji said.
They were all anticipating what Lia would play. Most people would play some The 1975's or Paramore's famous songs but Lia is different. They were shocked when she started playing Fur Elise, a classic piano piece, and for someone who is auditioning for a keyboardist position, Fur Elise is not a good choice.
After the three minute performance, Chaeryeong immediately clapped her hands, and Yuna joined her. " I thought you're Beethoven for a second," she said.
Although it was not something they usually listened to, they knew Lia never missed a beat and it was beautifully played. "Good, you can play," Yeji said. "Playing in a band is quite different since we need to play our instrument together. You were playing solo but we'll work that out," she added.
That’s true. Lia never had any experience being in a band but that doesn’t mean she can’t be in a band. Even though Lia is a bit nervous, she gathered all her strength for this position “I will do my best,” she replied. Yuna gave her two thumbs up and mouthed, "You’re doing great."
"Now, let us listen to your voice," Ryujin said.
Most bands have one to two vocalists but in their case, all their members sing. Singing is one of their criteria in selecting aside from knowing how to play an instrument.
Lia nods and clears her voice. She fixes her microphone and places her fingers on top of the keyboard keys. She plays the chord progression for the song’s introduction. Yeji immediately recognizes the song, it’s Red by Taylor Swift.
Loving him is like driving a new Maserati down a dead end street
Faster than the wind, passionate as sin, ending so suddenly
Loving him is like trying to change your mind
Once you're already flying through the free fall
Like the colors in autumn, so bright, just before they lose it all
Her voice is soft but firm and moderately high-pitched, it is sweet toned like a honeycomb and very angelic. It’s been awhile since Yeji heard a voice so attractive as Lia.
Losing him was blue, like I'd never known
Missing him was dark gray, all alone
Forgetting him was like trying to know
Somebody you never met
But loving him was red
Loving him was red
Lia who had just played a Beethoven piece, transformed into one of the strong vocals that a band could have. She’s not nervous anymore, she is just enjoying her moment.
Touching him was like realizing all you ever wanted
Was right there in front of you
Memorizing him was as easy as knowing all the words
To your old favorite song
Soon after, Yuna stood up and joined Lia as she started playing the drums.
Fighting with him was like trying to solve a crossword
And realizing there's no right answer
Regretting him was like wishing you never found out
That love could be that strong
And just before the chorus. Chaeryeong put on her electric guitar and joined them. Now the studio feels more alive after Yuna and Chaeryeong joined Lia with her performance. Not to mention that from the past auditions, they never joined anyone to play. They just watch them perform until the end.
They are just waiting for Ryujin and Yeji to join them play. They looked at each other and as if like they sent each other a telepathic message, they both got up and got their instruments, just in time for the Ryujin to play the guitar solo.
And for the last chorus, they enjoyed singing and playing like they were just having a usual band practice. Lia has great chemistry with the band and has adjusted quickly.
Loving him is like driving a new Maserati down a dead end street
Lia let out a relieve sigh after her performance and looked at Yeji waiting for her approval to join the team. Yeji offers her hand and said, “Welcome to the band.”