Chapter 18 - The MasterclassBy late autumn, Eliza’s reputation as both a prodigy and an advocate for youth arts education had grown across Europe.
Inside the grand rehearsal hall of the Orchestre de la Suisse Romande, famous French violinist Master Henri Dupré stood near the piano, listening intently as Eliza finished the final cadenza of Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto in D major.
When her final harmonic note faded into the cavernous room, Master Dupré slowly lowered his spectacles, nodding in deep admiration.
"Virtuosity is common, Mademoiselle Monroe," Master Dupré said in his gravelly, warm voice. "Precision can be taught. But the emotional truth you carry in your tone—that cannot be taught. Where does it come from?"
Eliza held her French violin close against her side, looking at the high arched windows overlooking Lake Geneva.
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"My mother taught me that when you stand on a stage—or sit in a chair—you shouldn't spend your energy proving you belong there," Eliza said softly. "You just play the truth, and let the music do the talking."
Dupré smiled, clapping his hands together. "Then you are ready for the Victoria Hall Gala on Friday."
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