Ep 5. The Barefooted Vibrato

As a hybrid of music and romance genres, La Corda d'Oro tells the story of Hino Kahoko, a cheerful and naive high school student who is living a regular life until she finds a magical violin on her way to school. The violin, also known as the "fairy violin," chooses Kahoko as its owner and grants her the ability to participate in a prestigious music competition.

Season 1 episode 5, The Barefooted Vibrato, starts with everyone gathering at the school's performance hall for the annual ensemble competition. Unlike previous years, this year's theme is "masters and apprentices," which means the participants have to form duos with a senior mentor and perform a piece together. Kahoko had already planned to enter the competition with her childhood friend, Azuma Yunoki, a talented and handsome flutist who is known for his mischievous nature.

When Kahoko meets her mentor, a shy and introverted third-year student named Tsuchiura Ryotaro, she is surprised by his different personality than Azuma. Ryotaro is a skilled violinist who has won numerous competitions, but his fear of playing in front of a large audience has always been a hurdle. Even though Kahoko is excited to perform with Ryotaro, she notices her mentor's feet are covered in bandages and learns that he practices violin barefooted to improve his vibrato technique.

Determined to help Ryotaro overcome his fear and reach his full potential, Kahoko takes him to a hot spring resort where she heard a rumor about a legendary violin virtuoso who once visited and gave a special lesson to those who played barefooted. At the resort, Kahoko and Ryotaro meet a mysterious woman named Takumi, who claims to be the grandchild of the legendary violinist Kahoko was looking for. Takumi plays the violin in a unique way that fascinates Kahoko and Ryotaro. As they watch Takumi play, they learn about her life story, including the tragic events that caused her to abandon her passion for the violin.

The Barefooted Vibrato explores the theme of overcoming fear and the importance of following one's passion. Kahoko, who had no formal music training, is able to inspire Ryotaro, who had lost his confidence in playing the violin. In return, Ryotaro teaches Kahoko the true meaning of music and how it is more than just winning competitions or impressing others. The episode also touches on the idea that music can heal emotional wounds and help people overcome traumatic experiences.

Overall, The Barefooted Vibrato is a heartwarming episode that showcases the growth of the characters and their relationships with each other. With an enchanting soundtrack and stunning animation, La Corda d'Oro continues to captivate its audience with every episode.