#concert artist series

[merriammusicinc]

Kawai CA79 | Digital Piano Review | Kawai Concert Artist Series

Kawai's Concert Artist series (CA series) pianos have been a mainstay of the high-end digital piano market for several years now. The current lineup is 4 models strong, and today we'll be looking at the second most advanced from the top as review the CA79.

The Kawai CA79 incorporates many of the same features as the flagship CA99, leading many to regard it as a high-value alternative to the top model in the class. We're going to start right away by checking out the piano sound and moving on from there.

Be sure to check out the companion video for a more in-depth review and some playing examples.

Kawai CA79 Digital Piano Kawai CA79 Piano Sound

The first thing that stands out about the Kawai CA79 is the sound engine, which happens to be the exact same sound engine featured in not only the Kawai CA99 but also in Kawai's most advanced digital pianos - the NOVUS NV10S and NV5S.

Shigeru Kawai SKEX Rendering Engine Shigeru Kawai SKEX Rendering Engine

The centerpiece of this sound engine is Kawai SK-EX Rendering Pianist Mode, which features an 88-note multi-channel sampling of their premium Shigeru Kawai SK-EX concert grand piano with additional Resonance Modelling added on.

With this mode engaged, you're given access to what is without question one of the most advanced piano sound engines available in a digital piano and delivers a truly stunning piano playing experience.

For all other tones, Kawai's Harmonic Imaging XL sound engine (HI-XL), which also features stereo sampling and some acoustic rendering of parameters, is also included (66 presets available in this engine.)

Limitless Polyphony

If the sound engine is your top priority, the Kawai CA79 gives you literally the exact same sound engine as the NOVUS NV10S for about 1/4 of the price, and the limitless polyphony on piano tones that this entails.

At this point, you might notice the CA79 has the same action as the CA99, and since the sound engines are the same, wonder why anyone would spring for the 99. The speaker system is where a very large difference emerges.

Speaker System

The Kawai CA79 uses a conventional speaker system, while the CA99 adds a real solid spruce soundboard which functions as a giant, additional speaker. When playing acoustically, the difference is actually quite significant in terms of the presence and warmth.

We also found that the CA99 plays perfectly out of the box, whereas the CA79 took a little bit of tweaking inside of the Virtual Technician Function to get it optimized.

All of that being said, the CA79 is still no slouch in the speaker department with no less than 3 distinct sets of speakers for 6 total speakers, designed in collaboration with Onkyo.

Kawai CA79 - Speaker System

First, there's a pair of woofers on the bottom producing most of the low frequencies. From there we have 2 mains responsible for the mid-range frequencies, and finally 2 tweeters with diffusers for the highs.

There's a total of 100 watts of amplifier power here pushing out there, which while less than the 135 watts on the CA99, is still very substantial.

After checking out everything sound-related here on the CA79, it's pretty hard to deny the killer value Kawai is delivering here for the price.

Kawai CA79 Piano Action Grand Feel III Wooden Key Action Grand Feel III Wooden Key Action

The Kawai CA79 uses the Grand Feel III action (GFIII), the same action used in the CA99. This is a new update to the Grand Feel II, which is what Kawai was using in the previous generation CA78 and CA98.

The Grand Feel II was an excellent action, but what the Grand Feel III brings is a whole new way in which the end of the key stick is attached to the capstan, with a more refined system of connection. This new system is intended to be more durable over a longer period of time than what was used in the GFII.

The GFII did end up receiving quite a few warranty claims after prolonged use in demanding settings such as post-secondary music institutions.

Extended Length Wooden Keys

So, what does the GFIII bring to the table? For one, it's an extended-length action with 100% wooden keys approaching the key stick of a real grand piano. It's also got a triple sensor for highly accurate MIDI output, counterweights, grade-weighted hammers, and let-off simulation.

Textured Key Surfaces

The key surfaces are also covered with an ivory touch texture on the white keys and an ebony texture on the black keys. This provides a perfect amount of grip, especially when your hands start to get sweaty when playing.

Deep Dynamic Control

Compared to most other digital piano actions out there, the GFIII, courtesy of the extended key length, is providing a deeper level of control and comes much closer to the experience of playing a real acoustic piano action. For the price range, we think it's the best digital piano on the market currently, though the Roland Grand Hybrid action is up there too.

The only real step after this action is to move beyond the Kawai CA series into the NOVUS series hybrids which feature a genuine acoustic piano action, but with that of course comes a substantial price hike.

Kawai CA79 Piano Features Kawai CA79 Piano Features LCD Touchscreen

A huge upgrade from the CA78 is the new and improved LCD touchscreen. The 78 had a screen as well, but there were some navigation issues. Fortunately, those have been addressed, and getting around the new touchscreen is a breeze.

For a detailed exploration of the menu and all of the things you can edit, check out the video review linked above as Stu does a nice walkthrough of the various menus (more fun to watch than read the owner's manual).

Pre-loaded Music & Lesson Books

The Kawai CA79 has all kinds of preloaded classical music built in, along with a selection of lesson books. There's also an internal 2-track recorder which can be great practice as it allows you to record yourself and playback the recordings. You can also record MP3, WAV, and SMF files to USB.

Cabinet & Pedals

The Kawai CA79 also features an upgraded gorgeous cabinet design with elegant music rest and comes available in Premium Rosewood, Satin White, Satin Black, and Ebony Polish. The cabinet looks much more like a real upright piano than ever before.

Kawai's great Grand Feel Pedal System also makes a return with damper, sostenuto, and soft pedals all weighted to replicate the feel of a grand piano pedal system.

Kawai CA79 Connectivity Kawai CA79 Connectivity

For connectivity, there's an impressive lineup here. Going down the list, we have dual headphone jacks (Kawai's Spatial Headphone Sound optimizer is included), 5-pin MIDI In and Out, a 1/4" line output. 1/8" line in, as well as USB to Host and USB to Device.

Lastly, there's also Bluetooth MIDI for accessing apps for iOS and Android, and Bluetooth Audio which makes your CA79 able to stream music from your devices.

Closing Thoughts

Thanks for joining us for a look at the Kawai CA79. This is a high-end digital piano that's going to work really well for advanced players who need affordable and space-saving practice instruments, and even for beginners who simply want something nice, both musically and aesthetically.

The action and sound engine are as good as it gets for the class, and for some people, the extra cost of the CA99 is not justified by the inclusion of the soundboard.

Don't forget to check out our YouTube channel for more reviews and visit our website for more in-depth product reviews & articles.

The post Kawai CA79 | Digital Piano Review | Kawai Concert Artist Series first appeared on Merriam Pianos

2359 Bristol Cir #200, Oakville, ON L6H 6P8

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(905) 829–2020

[stonerfromlesbos]

little sketch (i took almost two hours.

[inkingthingsintotrees]

honestly if i were zeus and i got that pity party of a festival day, i'd also start going a little crazy

[candybatwings]

Finally here’s the McKirk I promised <3 I couldn’t find a ref photo of those fancy shots Bones gives people to make them Not Die so I went from memory so uhh. Maybe just don’t look at that part <3

[unprofessionaldoodler]

part 8 of the taffy series flavor: honey lavender

[baladric]

fuck i have GOT to finish the pirate au with a HEFTY MARGIN before alexandra rowland’s pirate book.. oh No......,,,

[sw33t--t00th]

Oc, DR. RGB, for a series i wanna make, The Clown Girls

A gameshow host who works for mr. bozo and isn't really a big threat to the clown girls, but still would kill you and has a pretty big...temper

And he got a goth doll gf :3

Overlay down below vvv

[wutbju]

Remember when Rodeheaver was all purple?

A prominent three-tiered structure, towering above all other campus buildings and fronting on the beautiful fountain and bridge landscaping, Rodeheaver Auditorium captures the first glance of the visitors entering the arched gateway of Bob Jones University. And like a magnet, it constantly draws the university family and friends through its portals during the entire school year.

Its exterior design of cream-colored brick and reinforced concrete with trim of Bedford limestone contrasts effectively with royal purples, golds, and other harmoniously geared color schemes of its interior decor.

Versatile, flexible and multi-functional, this air-conditioned building has a carpeted house with a seating capacity of 3,000 and contains in addition, efficient box offices, comfortable lounges, attractive dressing and make-up rooms for performers, costume workrooms and storage, well-lighted and well-ventilated scenery construction areas, a traditional green room, and last but by no means least, it shares with the Unusual Films Production Studios which adjoins it, the title of the busiest beehive of activity on the Bob Jones University campus.

Rodeheaver Auditorium, named after the songwriter and evangelistic song-leader for Billy Sunday, Homer Rodeheaver, stands as a symbol of the spiritual and cultural emphases which are part of the very fiber of the foundation of the university. This building, more than any other one spot, underscores the famous saying of the university founder, "There is no difference between the sacred and the secular. To a Christian, all ground is Holy ground."

In the myriad of activities which are constantly reverberating its walls throughout the year -- daily Chapel programs, Sunday church services and vespers, and various artist series productions of dramas and concerts -- this place telescopes the spiritual emphasis, as well as cultural motto, Ars ad gloriam Deus, (Art for the glory of God).

STAGES MOVE

Rodeheaver Auditorium stage is the hub of action for the mammoth building. It is one of the largest screw lift stages in America. And perhaps only Radio City Music Hall in New York and the Civic Opera House of Chicago with their hydraulic lift stages are comparable in versatility.

The stage measures 150 feet from wall to wall and 65 feet from the stage floor to the grid the flying area for the storing and scene changing maneuvers of the curtains, drops, and scenic units. It is equipped with a central revolving stage 27 feet in diameter.

Two elevator lifts, each handling a section of stage floor 9 feet deep and the entire width of the proscenium opening, interlock to form a portion of the revolving stage. They contain six 4½-inch screws 27 feet long, and support the center and up. stage sections of the turntable. These elevators, each operated by 50 h. p. motors, have a lifting range of 24 feet, i.e., each section may be lowered 12 feet below the level of the stage floor into the scene dock under the stage for production changes, or raised 12 feet above the stage floor level. A third elevator, which is set on 14-foot screws, forms an orchestra pit by lowering the forestage and may descend 12 feet below the eye level of the audience.

Two beautiful motor driven contour curtains plus numerous travelers, drops, and teasers offer excellent enhancement and variety and almost limitless adjustments of the stage opening for the vast number of dramatic productions staged throughout the school year. The side stages, with concealed openings through the folds of the walls, provide for many special effects involving the handling of stage crowds and choruses.

SUNDAY PROGRAMS

Especially indigenous to the university since the first year it was founded in 1927 is the unique vesper program. Every Sunday afternoon throughout the school year, the university presents an hour program of sacred music, dramatic readings, instrumental and vocal solos, trios, group ensembles, and concert band and orchestra as a regular feature of its schedule, In addition, several sacred dramas are produced as unusual highlights.

Hundreds from the Greenville area as well as nearby states attend these programs each Sunday at 4 p. m.

The University specializes in Shakespearean and other classic productions. The Classic Players, organized in 1930, is listed by International Shakespeare Survey as one of the most "noteworthy classic repertoire companies in the United States." Its repertoire includes Shakespeare's great tragedies. "Hamlet." "Macbeth," "King Lear," "Othello" such histories as "Julius Caesar," "Henry IV,"  "Henry V," and "Henry VII, "Richard II,"  "Richard III"; the delightful comedies, "The Merchant of Venice," "The Tempest," "Twelfth Night," "Winter's Tale," "Comedy of Errors," "As You Like It," "Taming of the Shrew,"  "Love's Labour's Lost," "Mid-summer Night's Dream"; as well as such classic productions as Sophocles' "Antigone," Rostand's spectacular "Cyrano De Bergerac."

OPERA PRODUCTIONS

The university is also outstanding for its productions of opera. Grand opera productions for which the leading singers of the world are engaged to appear with the University Opera Association chorus and orchestra have included "Rigoletto,' "Aida," "Norma," "Il Trovatore." "La Tosca," "La Juive," "Ernani," "Samson and Delilah"; and such buffo or comic operas as "The Barber of Seville," "L'Elisir D'Amour," "The Merry Wives of Windsor," featuring the university faculty and students, have also been deftly and smoothly managed with the up-to-date facilities of the auditorium.

Noteworthy artists, musicians, and lecturers are presented in Concert and Drama Series throughout the year. These visiting artists find Rodeheaver Auditorium an acoustically apt place in which to perform, as well as more than adequately meeting their professional needs.

Behind the scenes of every onstage occurrence are many, many hours of rehearsing and preparation and building. The scene shop and scene dock hum with activity from the first day of September until the last graduate has marched across the stage at commencement to receive his diploma. Facilities for constructing and mounting the most elaborate, complex, and multi-scened designs are available for each production need down to the last hand prop of vase or spear.

$300,000 IN COSTUMES

The building houses the university's outstanding collection of properties, armor, jewels, and costumes. The costume collection alone is valued at $300,000 and contains some 5,000 costumes complete with accessories, including several. hundred Biblical costumes.

The items in the collection cover every period from ancient times to the present day and are of historical interest as well as of historical accuracy, having been carefully researched and period styled down to the shoe lacings and jeweled adornments, yet reflecting artistic creativity and serving the performer's most active needs. Included in the collection are items once the property of such famous actors in the classical repertoire as Walter Hampden, Jane Cowl, and Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree.

Almost every conceivable lighting effect is made possible not only by the careful positioning of lighting installations, but also by the numerous mountings available for such settings -- all controlled by the five-scene pre-set electronic master switchboard by Kliegl. This features a highly flexible push button sub-master system by which any dimmer may be assigned to any sub-master.

[doyoulikethissong-poll]

Dolly Parton - Jolene 1973

Dolly Parton is an American singer-songwriter, actress, and philanthropist. With a career spanning over fifty years, Parton has been described as a country legend and has sold more than 100 million records worldwide, making her one of the best-selling music artists of all time. She has had 25 singles reach no. 1 on the Billboard country music charts, a record for a female artist (tied with Reba McEntire). She has 44 career Top 10 country albums, a record for any artist, and she has 110 career-charted singles over the past 40 years. She has composed over 3,000 songs. She has founded a number of charitable and philanthropic organizations, chief among them is the Dollywood Foundation, which manages a number of projects to bring education and poverty relief to East Tennessee where she grew up. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Parton donated $1 million towards research at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, which funded the critical early stages of development of the Moderna vaccine.

"Jolene" was released on October 15, 1973, as the first single and title track from her the thirteenth solo studio album Jolene, and became Parton's second solo number one single on the country charts. "Jolene" became Parton's first top ten hit song in the UK, reaching number seven in the UK Singles Chart in 1976. It also re-entered the chart when Parton performed at the Glastonbury festival in 2014.

According to Parton, the song was inspired by a red-headed bank clerk who flirted with her husband, Carl Dean, at his local bank branch around the time they were newly married. In an interview, she also revealed that Jolene's name and appearance are based on that of a young fan who came on stage for her autograph.

During an interview on The Bobby Bones Show in 2018, Parton revealed that she wrote "Jolene" on the same day that she wrote "I Will Always Love You".

"Jolene" was nominated for the Grammy Awards for Best Female Country Vocal Performance twice, in 1975 and 1976. The first nomination was for the original recording, and the second was for a live recording from the TV series In Concert. It did not win either time, but in 2017, a cover by the a cappella group Pentatonix which featured Parton as a guest singer won the Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance.

In 2023 she released her forty-ninth solo studio album, Rockstar, a collaborative project with a variety of rock musicians and where "Jolene" is sung by Italian rockband Måneskin, listen to it here!

"Jolene" received a total of 94,3% yes votes!

[xinganhao]

🎸 vernon dates rockstar!reader. (2)

vernon x rockstar!reader who's a foreigner in an international rock band (2) a.k.a the one where vernon tours in your city ➤ see also: series masterlist

‧₊˚✩彡 includes: international rockstar!reader, f!reader, long distance relationship, established relationship, pet names, fluff, best read in order + headcanons under the cut.

🗺️ vernon chwe's guide to new york .ᐟ

📍 Socrates Sculpture Park, 32-01 Vernon Blvd., Astoria

your first date that's not over discord or facetime takes place in new york. vernon's just a little too prideful to have you come all the way to sokor for him and a part of him wants to play it safe. there's a smaller chance of him being recognized abroad than if he were to have you in seoul, so he books the red-eye flight and crashes on your couch for the weekend. he's still a bit jet-lagged when you drag him out to your location of choice. new york has its fair share of parks. vernon is expecting the usual— nature, buskers, the likes— only to find that and so much more. you'd taken him to an artist's park. there's exhibit sculptures, and multimedia installations, and he's just absolutely blown away. you can see it from the look on his face, how taken aback he is by the sheer thoughtfulness of your pick. he doesn't really know the extent of it, not yet, until you clue him in. "do you know what street we're on?" you prompt him as the two of you halve a greasy slice of pepperoni pizza. he raises his eyebrows in response. "i chose this place because it's on vernon boulevard," you say, and oh. oh. (or: this is where vernon realizes he's going to be pretty down bad.)

📍 The Bowery Electric, 327 Bowery

it's far from the first time vernon has seen you perform. he's seen all most of your videos on the internet, has watched you at festivals and concerts. there's something different, though, about the way you take the stage at the staple east village hangout. you're in your element underneath the blue and pink neon lights. your sound is full, and your eyes are bright, and it steals the breath from his lungs. you do an entire set until you're sweating and your chest is heaving. he wouldn't be able to look away even if he wanted to. everything about you is so cool. your oversized flannel, your secondhand fender. he thinks there's no way he can adore you more until you announce that you want to do a quick cover of a 'friend's song. the amps crackle. the drums kick up. you start to croon running 'round the whole city for someone to look me in my eyes and tell me pretty lies, and vernon swears he can just drop dead then and there. you come up to him afterwards, one corner of your lip twitching in to a smirk. as if to say 'so? what did you think?' (or: this is where vernon first thinks he might actually be in love with you.)

📍 The Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral, 263 Mulberry St.

when you tell him that you're taking him to church for a date, vernon is admittedly a little unnerved. at this point, he's already fairly sure that he loves you. you haven't said it yet, so he tries to keep his own admission under lock and key. a church, though? "are we going to elope?" he jokes to you, trying (and failing) to not sound nervous. thankfully, you roll your eyes and laugh instead of taking offense. "you wish," you shoot back. that puts him at ease enough for him to be completely normal with you in the back of the cab. when you get to the cathedral, though, he immediately puts two and two together. "is this—?" he starts to ask, his mouth agape. there's a smug look on your face as you nod. it's the church in one of vernon's favorite films, the godfather. he's barely even walked past the doors of it before he blurts out, "god, i love you." he freezes. you freeze. and then— "you sure you're not the one who wants to elope, chwe?" you tease. vernon's ears are burning red with shame, but then he hears the quiet way you add, "i love you, too, by the way." (or: this is where vernon learns just how good it feels, to say and hear those three words.)

📍 Staten Island Ferry

throughout at least half of the ferry ride, vernon is convinced you're going to break up with him. he's been a pretty terrible boyfriend. comeback season had been brutal and the upcoming world tour meant that he would have even less time to make up for his shortcomings. he's tried, he's been trying, but it's been hard. and so as the two of you hang on the back of the ferry's lower deck with the manhattan skyline receding, he thinks: this is it. he's going to lose the best thing that has ever happened to him. you start the conversation with "i'm sorry," and vernon resist the urge to get to his knees. you surprise him when you go on to say, "i've been pretty shitty to you lately, huh?" you talk about your temper, your schedule, your occasional unresponsiveness. your voice wavers in the slightest when you mumble, "i understand if you want to—" no. "no," vernon says quickly, immediately. before he can think of it, his hand is already reaching out to hold yours. the surprise and hope that fills your face is almost enough to bowl him over. "i don't want that," he reassures you. "i'll never want that." he means it. he surprises himself with just how much he means it. (or: this is where vernon decides that he's in it for the long run.)

📍 Little Bay Bridge Pier, Queens

vernon's attempt at planning a date on your turf ends up to be an utter failure. you don't see it that way, at least. you're too nice to call him out for the way everything kind of went to shit, from his credit card declining at the restaurant to the museum he wanted to see being closed for renovations. by the time the day is coming to a close, he's desperate for at least one thing to go right. vernon is not a religious man, but he prays, then, to every higher being and deity known to man. please, give me this. he's convinced they all hate him, though, because while the both of you are sitting by the pier— about to try what he researched to be the best churros in queens— a rat steals the snack. vernon briefly considers throwing himself in to the water. he doesn't know if he should be annoyed or relieved that you're laughing it all off. he settles for something in between. "this is not a laughing matter," he huffs, even though there's the smallest smile on his face. it's the only thing he can do to hide his disappointment. then, a little more seriously, he says, "i wanted to do right by you." it's a grace that you know how to deal with him. there's a fondness in your eyes as you press your lips to the back of his knuckles, the action making his heart skip a beat. "hansol," you say sweetly. not vernon, not v. not babe or baby boy or anything else. you assure him, "you're always right for me," and he wants so badly to believe you. (or: this is where vernon changes his prayer; this time, he begs to never wrong you.)

[xxsabitoxx]

Get to Know Me!

This is just a fun little thing I’ve been wanting to do since the dawn of time but could never find a post to reblog that satisfied what I wanted. So I made this, feel free to reblog and use it yourself!

❤️ how tall are you?

🧡 what is your sexuality?

💛 what is your favorite feature on yourself?

💚 where are you from?

🩵 do you have any pets?

💙 do you have any siblings?

💜 describe yourself in five words or less!

🩷 dream job?

🖤 favorite hobbies outside of your blog

🎂 when is your birthday?

🌙 your zodiac (Sun, Moon, Rising)

💉do you have tattoos and/or piercings

🚗 can you drive?

✈️ favorite place you’ve traveled

🎤 have you been to a concert

🎵 favorite artists

🎧 last song you listened too

📺 last show you watched

📝 last thing you wrote

🔐 something no one would guess about you

🧟‍♀️ scariest thing that’s happened to you

🔥 craziest thing that’s ever happened to you

🍓 favorite food

🍅 least favorite food

🍊 favorite season?

🍋 favorite genre to read / watch / write

🍐 if you could make one character real, who would it be

🫐 some place you’d love to visit

🍇 a word your friends would use to describe you

🍒 what is your earliest memory

🍌 what is one talent you wish you had

💌 why did you start this blog?

✏️ when did you start writing fanfic

🖇️ what are your favorite asks to answer

📚 how do you come up with the fics you write

📌 what is the fic you’re know for

🔍 what character do you enjoy writing for the most

🖊️ what character do you not enjoy writing for

💔 is there a fic you wish you didn’t write

❤️‍🔥 what character do you simp for most often

🧚‍♀️ favorite characters of all time

🪐 favorite shows / series of all time

🌝 a show you would recommend to anyone

🌚 a show you’d tell people to stay away from

🌹 favorite kinks to write for

🥀 kinks you would never write for

🌊 a kink you would like to write but you think you’d be judged

❄️ full fics, imagines or head canons

☂️ your favorite fanfic from another writer

A couple of in depth questions!

🍄 what is something that’s happened in your life that you wish you could go back and change?

⭐️ what is one of your biggest accomplishments? Why is it so important to you?

🪻what is the toughest thing you had to go through, but can say you’ve successfully overcome?

🌺 what is the best gift someone has ever given you and why is it so important

🍀 what is your comfort show/series and why is it your comfort show? How has it helped you?

[merriammusicinc]

Kawai CA48 Digital Piano Review & Demo - Kawai Concert Artist Series

Introduction

Today we're tackling Kawai's CA48, the little sibling of the whole Concert Artist (CA) series, but a piano that absolutely packs a tremendous value. From the action to the sound to the cabinet, not to mention a couple of really cool apps that work with a wireless connection.

Let's dive into why this is one the most value-packed home digital pianos on the market.

Product Discontinued: The Kawai CA48 has been replaced by the Kawai CA49 digital piano on May 15, 2020. You can watch our review on YouTube here.

Kawai CA48 Background

The Kawai CA48 Digital Piano is the entry-level model of the CA series, but it's by no means an entry-level digital piano. The remainder of the line consists of the Kawai CA58,  CA78, and CA98.

For people who are familiar with the Kawai lineup, the relationship between the CA48 and CA58 can actually be compared quite accurately to the CN29 and CN39 because the 29 and the 39 have the same piano actions, but the major difference comes down to the tones that they offer, speaker systems, connectivity and some of the features.

The differences between the CA48 and CA58 are essentially the same. For starters, the CA48 interface is very similar to the CN29 interface, and the CA58 interface is virtually identical to what you get on the CN39.

The action is the same between the CA48 and CA58, but the 58 features a more powerful speaker system, a higher fidelity sound engine, more sounds, more connectivity options, and an upgraded cabinet.

Now, these extra features come with a price premium. Some folks don't need any of these extra features, and for the folks, the value that the CA48 offers really starts to shine through.

The fact is, the 48's Grand Feel Compact wooden action is arguably the best piano action available for the price. For folks who need a good practice instrument with a great touch and aren't worried about other features, the CA48 becomes a compelling option. Let's dive into that further.

Kawai CA48 Grand Feel Keyboard Action

Kawai's Grand Feel keyboard action has been out for years now and is notable for its full wooden construction and extra-long key-stick resembling a real grand piano.

The new Grand Feel Compact is a version with a shorter key stick, but when we compare the original Grand Feel and the Grand Feel Compact, they actually don't feel all that different, doing a great job of replicating the touch weight and feel of an actual grand piano action.

This wooden-key keyboard action also has Ivory Touch key surfaces on the black and white keys to help with playing for longer periods of time, center rail pivot point just like an acoustic piano, and real felt here to cushion the bottom of the keybed. There's also simulated let off or escapement, bass region counterweights, and of course, a triple sensor key detection for really accurate MIDI technology output.

You can't find this style of action with this good of a physical feel at this price range really anywhere else in the market. If touch is your number one priority and you're working with a budget that would allow for the CA48 and its GF compact action, we think it's probably the best option from an action standpoint.

Progressive Harmonic Imaging Sound Engine

Moving on to the sound portion of our discussion; the CA48 is outfitted with Kawai's Progressive Harmonic Imaging sound engine (PHI). This engine features full 88-key sampling to provide the discerning player with high-level digital piano tonal quality, and those samples are coming from their beautiful SK-EX concert grand, as well as the EX concert grand.

The Shigeru Kawai SK-EX is easily one of the top grand pianos on the planet, and this sound engine does a remarkable job of capturing the realism of the instrument. Even the sostenuto pedals of a Shigeru Kawai SK-EX concert grand are faithfully recreated.

The default concert grand piano sounds warm, dynamic, and colorful, and all of this can be manipulated through the Virtual Technician Smart Mode which allows the user to edit ten preset sound-related parameters to further customize the sound to their own liking. Things like damper resonance and touch curve are just two of the editable settings, and you've also got some different reverb and brilliance settings you can play with as well.

Polyphony is strong with 192-notes, but the other sound-related highlight has to do with Kawai's collaboration with Japanese audio maker Onkyo. Onkyo helped design the amplifiers and speakers so that the sound is cleaner and more well managed, meaning no woofyness or distortion in the sound. They also contributed to the CA48's Spatial Headphone Sound feature which creates a more immersive experience when playing with earphones.

The speaker system itself consists of two mains, as well as two small 5-centimeter tweeters at the front that is facing you as the player. We found the tweeters to be slightly brighter than we would normally like, but you can adjust this in the Voicing settings to correct the issue. We didn't notice this issue when using headphones or when plugged into an amplifier.

In terms of the other sounds that are included in the CA48, there are 19 sounds in total. There are several acoustic piano options, including the SKEX and Kawai EX concert grand piano we mentioned, then an upright piano and several studio grands. From there we've got some electric piano and organ sounds.

In fact, the left pedal by default is set up to activate a rotary speaker effect for organ sound, so you can get a pretty authentic organ sound going. Other sounds include church organ, harpsichord, vibraphone, string ensemble, and synth pads.

For people who are looking for a much wider variety and selection of sounds, the CA58 will be a better option as it bumps the sounds up to 42 in total.

Features/Connectivity/Miscellaneous

As we've alluded to, the CA48 is outfitted with an excellent integrated triple pedal array with Kawai's Grand Feel Pedal System. The subtle effects of a real acoustic playing experience come through nicely with this pedal system as it recreates the individual weighting of the damper, sostenuto, and soft pedals.

The CA48 features some built-in music lesson books and classical etudes as well, including Alfred Lessons Basic Piano, Beyer, Burgmuller, and Czerny. This lesson function and built-in course books will be very helpful to newer players.

Staples like a metronome, concert magic, and transpose are of course covered as well.

In terms of connectivity, the CA48 is a bit light compared to the CA58 in that it has now discreet line outputs, so if you need a piano for a church or performance stage, you'll be better off with the CA58.

That said, it does have modern Bluetooth connectivity. Wireless technology makes for hassle-free connectivity to Smart Devices for using the Virtual Technician app and of course, fun 3rd party apps as well.

The modern cabinet includes a large music rest and is available in both premium Rosewood and Satin Black finish, and the cheekblock control panel blends in nicely without ruining the classy aesthetic.

Closing Thoughts

The CA48 is a value-packed instrument with an excellent action and wonderfully rendered sound technology.

It's primarily aimed at folks who need a convincing piano experience without certain additional features like lots of sounds, top-of-the-line speakers, and discreet line outputs.

If this sounds like what you're after, you'll want to add the CA48 to your wishlist. Shop more digital pianos by Kawai here.

Thank you for reading!

The post Kawai CA48 Digital Piano Review & Demo — Kawai Concert Artist Series first appeared on Merriam Pianos

2359 Bristol Cir #200, Oakville, ON L6H 6P8

merriammusic.com

(905) 829–2020

[stonerfromlesbos]

since you guys liked the last one… here is all my finished works of billie!😭💞

[philcon-programming]

Philcon 2024!

Do you love Science Fiction, Fantasy, or Horror? Are you a Writer, a Gamer, a Costumer, or a Filker? Are you looking for a weekend of distraction in your life? If you’re in the vicinity of Philadelphia- or more specifically, Cherry Hill, New Jersey- there’s an event coming up on November 22 – 24, 2024 that we’d love for you to come check out. If you aren’t already familiar with PHILCON, here’s what you should know: * We started out as a literary-centric SF convention in 1936, but have grown to embrace all mediums of storytelling (movies, television, comics, podcasts, etc) as well as expanding to cover the Fantasy and Horror genres. Most of our participants are authors, and there will be Readings by them and Autograph sessions all throughout the weekend, in addition to their participation on discussion panels. * While many of our Literary panels are about SF, Fantasy, or Horror topics in general, we also have an emphasis on panels discussing the craft side and business sides of writing, for those looking to develop as authors. * One of our content tracks for the weekend is dedicated to Science & Technology itself, not just how it is used in fiction. * We will be screening several movies over the weekend, and Anime will also be shown in our Anime & Animation room at certain times. * There will be Workshops and Demos for Costuming (including "Fabric Manipulation", "How to Make Foam Armor", "Make-up for The Stage", and "A Pox on Patterns!") and Art (including "Using Alcohol Inks", "Block Printing With Your Own Designs", "How to Make A Controlled Color Palette", and "Making Wire-Wrapped Jewelry"), and if you’ve got an outfit you made that you’d like to show off on stage, we’ve got a yearly Costume Contest. * If you are a Filker- or just enjoy listening to other people sing and play music- Philcon has a room dedicated Filk room, and this year’s Musical Guest of Honor is Cecilia Eng. As Cecilia is not often on the east coast, if you’d like to see her play in person, now is an excellent change to do so without flying to the other side of the country. Lynn Gold, another west-coast Filker, will also be joining us this year. There are also Concerts scheduled for Sirens & Liars, Half a Slime Devil, Brenda and Chuck Shaffer-Shiring, and Sara Henya. * Since the Gaming track moved from an upstairs suite to the “Gallery” room on the first floor, it’s had the literal room to expand the number of games it can run, and we’ve got a bevy of them on the schedule for 2024, as well as a bank of games for you to choose from during Open Gaming hours. There's also a LARP Workshop Series being run by Spectacle INK. * Our Artist Guests of Honor for 2024 are Gina Matarazzo and Matthew Stewart. Each will be giving a presentation on our Main Stage on Saturday afternoon, as well as having their art displayed in our Art Show. * Our Principal Speaker for 2024 is MAX GLADSTONE, and we also have Nghi Vo as our Special Guest. Both will be doing Readings, Autograph Sessions, panels, and a main stage Q&A session. An interactive version of our schedule can be found HERE. While a simplified, static overview, organized by track, can be found HERE. Our LinkTree can be found HERE. We would especially value your support this year, as Philcon’s Covid-19 policy in previous years (which required both mandatory masking and proof of vaccination in an attempt to avoid becoming a super-spreader event as several other conventions had) has led to a slow but noticeable decline in attendance. While masking in public spaces is still heavily encouraged, neither proof of vaccination nor masking are required to attend the convention in 2024. We’d love your help in making this year a success, so that we’re in a good position to bring you all something really fantastic for our upcoming 90th anniversary. We’d also love to give you a great weekend right now, for reasons I doubt we need to explain. Here’s to surviving the next few years! ~ Lynati Head of Programming, Philcon 2024

[satorusugurugurl]

Toji as a bodyguard

Til’ the Day that I Die

Summary: You’re a popstar in need of a bodyguard when you find yourself with a stalker. That’s how you meet Fushiguro Toji, you’re insanely hot bodyguard. Who knows how to push your buttons, and get you feeling flustered. Just how far is he willing to go to protect you? And how far would you go to protect him?

Pairing: Bodyguard!Fushiguro Toji x AFAB!Reader

Warnings: mentions of stage right, performance, anxiety, stalking, panic attacks, language mentions of gun, (eventual smut)

Word Count: 4.5K

A/N: this request is amazing!! It got my brain worms going! Once again, this will be a multi part series, I’m looking at a total of four parts as I have already planned down the whole story. I’m sorry for the lack of content, it’s been a rough few days and I just decided to take some time for myself! But I do have about four stories almost done so you can expect updates for the rest of the week! Love you all!! (Readers' stage persona is highly inspired by several artists! 😊)

Part Two Part Three Part Four

Performance anxiety is defined as an excessive feeling of fear related to being able to perform well. Symptoms of performance anxiety include pulse racing, rapid breathing, dry mouth, and throat tightness. Dealing with performance anxiety when you're a rising star is brutal, and you begin to regret all your life choices. You aren't sure if you want this to be your life. You were attending nursing school, but your sister posted a video of you singing online. Reading all the sweet comments was fun initially, but it's funny how fast things change.

One second, you were posting a few videos of you singing, and the next thing you knew, you had a record deal, your songs were on the radio, and you were performing at concerts. All in the span of six months. The attention was overwhelming, and, at times, your anxiety even worse. But the more you performed, the more you were able to bury the stage fright down, masking the fear with a persona you made until you were home in your apartment. In the confines of your home, you could cry and tremble; dealing with those attacks was something you’d gotten used to.

But your stalker was a whole new fucked up mess you never dreamed about dealing with.

It had started as nothing more than a couple of love letters that turned into more descriptive letters detailing information about your personal life you had never told anyone. Anytime you saw a letter come in with ‘M’ written on the front and dark gray ink, your stomach twisted. You at first thought you would be okay. You could handle something like this. This was the kind of thing that came along with the territory of being famous.

That was until a bouquet of roses was dropped off at your door in your guarded apartment building. That whole situation sent you into a full-blown panic attack. You left your apartment and went to stay with your friends. That incident caused your manager to contact Kong Security Services and hire you as a bodyguard. One, you were anxiously waiting to meet as you sat in your dressing room before your show.

“It’s going to be fine, I promise.” Nanako, your makeup artist, assured you as she fixed your blush. “Geto said this agency is the best in the business.”

You shot her a skeptical look while her twin sister fixed your hair. “Are you just saying that because your dad’s are my managers, and they told you to say that?” When both twins had ceased their movements in obvious shock at your to-the-point accusation.

“W-What—?”

“No, never!”

“Uh-huh—I don’t believe a word either of you are saying right now.”

Nanako steps back, looks you over, and bites her lip. “They really are the best, whether or not we get to go out for Boba after this. It’s not like sweet milk tea is on the line if we don’t ease your nerves.” Just as your sweet young makeup artist finishes, the door to your dressing, eyes darting towards the door as it swings further open. Suguru and his husband, Satoru, enter, displaying their matching black-and-white wedding rings. They were the best management company in the world, the power couple of Tokyo. Satoru, who was in charge of your social media accounts, types viciously on his phone while Suguru grins up at a man walking in with them.

If you could even call him a man.

A fucking mountain of muscle is a more appropriate way of describing him. He’s tall, has dark hair and navy blue eyes, and he’s fit. The mountain wore a tailored jacket and white button-down shirt with the first two buttons undone. His eyes leave Geto’s for a minute to watch you sinking further in your chair, his pink tongue running over the scar down the corner of the right side of his mouth.

“Hun, this is Fushiguro Toji,” Suguru announced before glancing at his phone. “He’s your bodyguard and will be with you everywhere you go.”

“E-Everywhere?”

“Yes, to rehearsals, your shows, meet-and-greets, he’ll even escort you home.” Your eyes rammed back over to the mountain of a man standing off to the side. When you have time off, or he needs a day away, his work partner Tsukumo Yuki will take over for him.”

You swallowed hard, fingers twitching, a subtle action your new bodyguard noticed immediately as you dug your fingers into your skirt. It was part of Toji‘s job to see behaviors and be observant. He could tell you were on edge from how your fingers twitched to how your pulse raced in your neck. His handler, Shiu, had warned him that you were an anxious mess after finding out about your stalker. But this anxiety didn’t come from just having a stalker. This anxiety was deeply rooted in you. It was probably something you had suffered with for years.

Without being told, Toji stepped forward, kneeling before you, giving you a gentle smile like a father would give a frightened child. He had to put your nerves at ease to let you know you would be okay. “I know you’re scared, but I can assure you that I am very skilled. You won’t even notice I’m around.” You weren’t sure about that. How could you not notice the handsome man who would always be around you?

“Right, thank you.”

“You’re welcome--”

“Ugh! We gotta get going; they expect you on stage in five minutes.”

“I-I s-shou—” you stuttered as the performing anxiety began to root itself into your already anxious demeanor.

“Yep, let’s get going.” Toji stood motioning towards the door of the dressing room. “After you, Miss.”

Being a bodyguard and a security escort for so long had allowed Toji to pick up on specific cues from people, like how their eyes moved around the room or how their body language told him what they were feeling. The way your fingers were twitching, he knew you were nervous and scared, and he wasn’t sure if it was stage fright or something to do with your stalker.

Regardless of whether you wanted to go up there, it didn’t change the fact that thousands of people were already waiting for you to perform. As you both walked down the hall, Tojo noticed you took a deep breath and exhaled through your nose, and as you turned the corner, you put on a huge smile. The way you put in a mask so fast nearly sent Toji stumbling back. He was usually prepared for the unexpected, but seeing this scared, shaking woman shift into a bubbly pop star rocked him back.

Everyone you encountered smiled wide at your perky voice and demeanor. You truly lit up the whole room. “Alright, guys! Thank you for all your hard prep! Now, let’s have a great show tonight!” You were handed a jeweled microphone and placed on a platform to lift you to the main stage, but before you gripped the handles to steady yourself, Toji grabbed your hand. “Oh, Fushiguro?”

“I'll be on the side, watching you. If you need me or notice something's off, you should give me a sign.”

“A sign? Like a signal?”

“Yeah, something easy and inconspicuous.”

You thought for a second, that perky look still on your face, but Toji could see the anxiety behind your eyes. “Well, I wink a lot during my shows and throw a heart sign up.” Toji hummed, pursing his lips together.

“Well, if you don't want to alarm your fans, how about this.” he took your hand, putting your middle and ring finger down. Your thumb, pinky, and pointer finger were left extended.

“Oh, the sign for ‘I love you’!”

“Only use this if you need me on stage. Otherwise, do what you normally do, but know I’ll be right there if you need me.”

There was a flicker of fear in your eyes, which probably would go unnoticed by many different people, but it was one that he could see clearly as day. “Right, thank you, Fushiguro.” Your new bodyguard looked at you as he scoffed, shaking his head.

“Toji, just call me Toji. There is no need for formalities. Have a good show, Miss.”

“R-Right, thank you, Toji.”

Your new bodyguard watched as the platform began to lift, taking you up to the stage where fans were screaming your name. Taking a deep breath before smiling, your bodyguard watched you reach the top before the band blaring music as you began singing into your microphone. The beat of the music rang in his ears; Toji ran for the stairs that led him to the stage, where he could watch you from the side.

There, Toji found your managers standing on the sidelines, watching you. Upon looking at you, he met a woman who looked nothing like the girl he had just spoken to moments before. You danced, sang, smiled, and winked at the crowd. Multicolored lights flashed as fog from the fog machine flooded the stage, and the backup dancers moved in sync with each other. I think this is poor, who was shaking upon meeting him.

“Yeah, crazy to see her shift, isn’t it?” Geto asked before pulling his phone out and snapping a few photos of you as you sang. “She’s like a different person.”

“Like? I hate to be the one to break this to you, Geto, but that woman is a completely different person. Why the fuck is she masking?”

The white-haired man glared at Toji, his sunglasses sliding down the bridge of his nose. “She’s not masking; it's called a stage persona.” The annoyance was clear in the other man’s voice, a tone that crawled its way under his skin.

“Look, buddy, keep your terms to yourself. I don't care about the different terms. All I know is that woman—” he jabbed his thumb in your direction as you twirled around the stage. “is masking; that’s not who she is.”

“You don’t know a lot about the entertainment industry. This is something that a lot of celebrities do. It’s completely normal, and she knows that. That’s how she adapted so fast.”

Toji wasn’t sure if that was the case. He had seen you firsthand, shaking in your dressing room. To see you change drastically for the sake of a show? Toji could see why you would be nervous to go up on stage. There had to be a fear of your mask slipping, revealing your true persona to the world.

But Satoru was right; Toji’s job was to protect and ensure you were safe. It wasn’t his place to judge how you lived or worked your career. In the end, you were just like all the other popstar divas and clients he had had before. Rich people with too much money to throw around and fame led them to believe that they were in danger all the time, which is how he managed to keep a steady income for himself and his kids as long as they were rich snobs like you, Tojo was guaranteed to have a job.

Instead of continuing to argue with your overzealous manager, Toji crossed both arms over his chest and watched you closely. The sooner the show was over, the sooner he could get you back to your apartment, where he could call to check on Megumi. He just wanted to relax, and for all he knew, you and your managers were overreacting to this so-called stalker you had. If anything, this might’ve been some cruel prank; receiving a note to roses wasn’t that big of a deal, and this was way too easy for as much as he was getting paid, so he wasn’t going to bitch about it.

What he did want to bitch about was how fucking long your show went on for. Performed for about two hours straight, only taking breaks to change costumes throughout the performance. It was in those moments when you were changing that your mask slipped. He could see the exhaustion in your eyes and how you wanted to do nothing more than take a break. But as fast as that mask slipped, you had it back on instantly. When one costume was off, and the other slipped on, you were back on stage to sing the next song.

After about two hours and thirty minutes of this bullshit, you gave a final bow and blew kisses out at the crowd of strangers who were cheering your name. While the two hours he got to stand up to the side and watch you perform was easy, he only had to look for your signal if you needed help; getting you out of the arena safely was a whole different story. Everything moved so fast The second you stepped off that stage and towards your bodyguard.

After every show, the goal was the same: get changed as fast as possible, collect your stuff, which Nanako and Mimiko had already packed, and get in your limo before the crowd started heading towards your exit. Toji gently placed his hand on the small of your back, ushering you through the maze of halls that led you back to the dressing room, where, just like you knew, the girls had packed all your stuff.

“You got five minutes to change,” Suguru announced as Satoru snickered behind his husband. “Thanks to Satoru, you’re trending again for your newest song.”

Toji could see the minutey, perky personality shift into your more anxious state. You frowned, literally frowned, at the news. Most people would be jumping over the moon to hear it. Seeing such an ungrateful expression on your face had Toji resist the urge to roll his eyes into his skull.

Spoiled little brats, you rich folks were all the same.

“Did you make sure to tag the—“

“Are you insinuating that I don’t know who to tag or which hashtags to use? Babes, I've got you covered. When have I ever let you down?”

“Never.”

“Right, so let the best PR manager handle this.”

Toji sighed, glancing towards his watch. “Two minutes,” he announced to the room of people bouncing off the walls and collecting items to clean up the green room. How could your managers be talking about more brand deals at a time like this? Brand deals were bullshit, but knowing how popular you were with the teenagers and you probably had some make-up deal or some other shit that would make you all the richer, you had to make sure the right people were tagged so you continued to be sponsored. But there was a time and place for that, and now wasn't the right time!

“I know you're the best Satoru, but I still wanna make sure the word gets out there.” You stepped out of the bathroom, dressed in black leggings and a simple T-shirt. Completely different from the baby doll dresses you were wearing on stage. “It’s imperative—”

“I know. I’ve already posted it. Everyone’s been tagged accordingly, and the hashtags are in place. You’ll get lots of people to see this, trust me.”

You were slipping on your baseball cap and sunglasses when Toji’s large hand gently grabbed you by the shoulder. “We gotta get going,” you sighed before nodding, waving off your team, and falling Toji down the hall to where your car awaited you.

Thanks to your quick change, nobody was waiting for you outside, making your getaway from the arena smooth as butter. You just wished you felt as calm as your exit from the bustling stage had been. You were beginning to regret going back to your apartment. You hadn’t been back there since the roses were delivered to your door. Going back was going to be difficult, leaving your stomach swarming with anxiety. But at least you had a big mountain of a man to protect you if, god forbid, you needed help.

The entire ride back to your apartment complex was thankfully quiet. Toji sat on the other side of you, staring out the window, not making any conversation, which was a blessing. Not only was your throat sore from the amount of singing you had done, but the idea of sitting through a conversation run solely by small talk was almost as bad as your performance anxiety. Sitting in the back of the car, leaning your head against the window without worrying about smiling or acting perfect in front of strangers, was a breath of fresh air.

Being alone with your bodyguard made you feel like you could let your walls come down for the first time in a long time. It was a feeling you might as well get used to. He would be around most of the time, so instead of adorning the perfect, pretty mask you always wore, you could be the introverted true version of yourself. Knowing that you could relax, you shut your eyes, allowing yourself to doze off as the car smoothly headed down the freeway.

If only your dreams were smooth and calm like the car ride. Your dreams were filled with mysterious notes and roses you had once loved. They circled you, drowning you in paper and petals as a roaring crowd rang through your ears. You could fight against the tidal waves, but instead, you let them wash over you, allowing yourself to be crushed by the unbearable weight of being a star at times.

Nursing school wasn’t easy, but at least when you were in school, you didn’t have to worry about a mysterious bouquet showing up on your apartment doorstep or sneaking out to avoid getting seen and swarmed by your fans. Your biggest concern in school was getting good grades and doing everything possible to get your degree. The only things you had to worry about were study dates and pop quizzes, not ominous letters that made you fearful for your safety.

These nightmares were so vivid that you wished your family had heard you singing online. Was it too much to ask for a normal everyday life where you weren't constantly stressed?

You sighed, looking up at the lingering rays of light that slowly began to peek through. More envelopes and roses piled on the cocoon you were stuck in. Perhaps there was no going back. This might very well be the rest of your life. Just as you were shutting your eyes to the casket you were being buried in, a hand reached out from the top of the mountain of dread and anxiety you lived with, reaching for you.

You couldn’t make out who was reaching out to you, but you were sure they just wanted to help you. Without hesitation, you reached for that hand, brushing over their fingertips. Just when they clasped your hand to pull you out of the burial ground, you were jn. You gasped as someone shook you, waking you from the dream.

You sat up quickly, shaking as you met Tojo’s navy blue eyes. He was frowning, motioning towards the rolled-down window, and Ijichi, head of security for your building, leaned in, giving you a weak smile. With a quick rub to both your eyes, you placed your mask back on, going from the sleep-deprived woman you were transforming into the perky popstar everybody knew and loved.

“Ijichi! Hi!”

“Hi yourself, glad to have you back.”

Toji could see how your shoulders stiffened when you mentioned being back. “Oh, yep! It's good to be back.” Toji could see through your facade, while Ijichi was blind to it.

“I just wanted to let you know that we added more cameras to the building, and my security post will be far stricter with deliveries and anything else from this point on. We want you to feel safe here, and I’m sorry we failed to do that in the first place.”

“Oh no, it’s not your fault! Plus, I feel a lot better now that I have Fushiguro!” The man with glasses peered into the car, waving at your bodyguard whose face remained stoic, not returning the gesture. “Okay, uhm Ijichi, Toji; Toji Ijichi.”

No pleasantries were exchanged, not at all. The only thing Toji managed to do was give him a nod before focusing his attention back on the massive building and making a mental note to ask for access to the cameras. That way, he could keep an eye on you and ensure nobody was hanging around who wasn't supposed to be there. Those thoughts Toji was lost in made it a tranquil ride up the elevator to your apartment. He was leaving you feeling even more anxious. Usually, being around someone quiet never bothered you; you felt so relaxed around that person, but Toji’s cold demeanor and attitude toward your friend made you irritable.

“So, uhm, are you going to be that cold and standoffish every time you meet somebody I know?” You asked, finally allowing your heart mind to win over your mind.

“Huh?”

His dark gaze had you swallowing the lump suddenly in your throat. “I wanted to ask if this is going to be normal, you being—.”

“Oh, I am so sorry little star; I wasn't aware I needed to wear a fake ass mask around people too.”

“Excuse me?”

“You heard me, and unfortunately, unlike you, I like wearing my face. I don’t have to be someone I’m not to get people to like me. Because quite frankly, I don’t give a damn if anybody likes me.”

“I don't eit—”

Toji scoffed, leaning against the elevator wall and shaking his head at your words. “Oh, please. You’re just like every other client I’ve had. All you care about is money, your appearance, and what sponsor deals you get.” His words made your blood begin to boil.

“You’ve barely known me for a couple of hours, and you think you know who I am?”

“Oooh yeah, you're some small-town girl that made it big. And instead of showing the world who you really are, you put on this fucking mask, one that hides the true you from the prying eyes of the world. You care only about ticket sales, making your fans happy, and sponsorships like the one you were talking about with your manager not even thirty minutes ago. So yeah, I’m sure I got a good idea of who you are. It’s my job to read people..”

This was the best security in the business; bodyguard your manager had set you up with? Ha! Yeah, right, this man was nothing more than a dickhead that had a lot of opinions that were far from true?!

You laughed, pushing yourself away from the wall to stand in front of the doors before him. “That's the great thing about wearing a mask around people I don’t fucking know. They get to see the real me, but I get to see people for who they truly are.” Toji opened his mouth to continue arguing with you, but only for you to quickly shut him down, holding a hand up before you. “You were right about a couple things; I do put on a mask, I love my fans, but I could give a damn about sponsorships.” Toji pushed himself off the wall, towering over you, gritting his teeth as he tried to control his evident anger.

“Oh, you suddenly don’t give a damn about sponsorships? I just heard you talking to your manager about one.”

“You don’t know anything about me! That whole conversation had nothing to do with this sponsorship!”

Tojo tilted his head back with a laugh. “Oh, right, of course. You don’t care about your amazing condo or all the money you’re making; you don’t care about those so-called nonexistent sponsorship deals.” The elevator rattled like the lid to the rage threatening to explode.

“Alright, yes, I do live in a nice apartment, one with security that sucks, but it’s still home. But for your information, I don’t do this for the money. You don’t know what I have planned on doing with my life, so I don’t want to hear you make assumptions about me! The conversation you so rudely eavesdropped on had nothing to do with a sponsorship deal but a massive donation I’m making to the local Children’s Hospital. The same hospital is well renowned for helping unfortunate children. So yeah, that whole conversation you listened to was me telling my manager to tag the hospital in my video because the hospital inspired the song! It was a public service announcement, a reminder to help those who can’t help themselves.”

Your rant was unexpected. Toji had never had one of his clients talk to him like that; strangely, he liked it.

“And another thi—”

The doors to the elevator slowly slid open with a ding as you reached your apartment. Usually, your automatic lights would be on in the living room and kitchen, leading upstairs. But as the doors opened, no lights illuminated your bodyguard's face. You knew something was wrong, and just before Toy could look over your shoulder into the apartment,Toji’s hand quickly covered your eyes. He pulled you into his chest, and he listened in as he smashed on the lobby button on the button panel.

“Toji!?” You asked, placing your hands on top of his. “What is it?! Is something wrong? Let me see!”

Toji shook his head as if you could see his reaction, his hand reaching for the gun at the holster on his side as the door slowly shut. There was no way in hell you were going to see what was behind the door. Because he knew if you were to see what had happened in your apartment, you would never be the same. As the elevator slowly began to descend, Toji realized that he had been wrong about your stalker. It wasn’t some harmless joke.

This was fucking serious.

(TBC)

Forever Tag List:

@darkstarlight82 @pandoness @nealeart @simp-plague @sugurubabe @chilichopsticks @reap3erslov3 @wil10wthetree @luvsymai

[gguk-n]

Notes & Nitrous (Oscar Piastri x Jeon Jungkook's labelmate!Reader)

Series Masterlist

Face claim- IU

{Jungkook's POV}

Y/N was always nice, that was her personality. She wasn't nice because she wanted to be an idol but she was genuinely nice from the moment I met her. She was the first female solo artist under our label and debuted soon after we did. Those were tough time; while Y/N made a name for herself domestically, we were able to expand internationally which in turn brought more traffic to our company. She would always joke about how we helped her go to concerts overseas. She got along well with the other members too; but there was always something different between us, or so thought.

We were both teenagers when we became trainees. She would always ask us questions and for help and she was the only one who could call me oppa and get away with it. Even the fans noticed how she could call me oppa and no one else. When I think about it, it's mostly because I had a huge crush on her. I was in love with her for years but us dating would be scandalous so we never did, or I never asked.

Everyone treated her like BTS's younger sister. I couldn't imagine it. I wish I had the guts to ask her out.

Y/N was promoting at the same time as I was promoting seven. Going to music shows became exciting because I would find Y/N back stage and we would be goofing off. "Why'd you have to promote seven now?" she whined playfully. "Why?" I asked confused. "I can't win a single time now, until your song stops being nominated" she laughed. "I can stop" I stated. "No, no, oppa, I was joking. The fans love the single; I was just teasing you. I've won enough trophies at this point" she quickly corrected.

We were both done with our promotions and were at the company recording. I had asked her to do a demo for a few of my songs and she was giving feedback on how I could do them. I saw how her eyes sparkled and the way it made my heart beat really fast when she spoke. I found myself staring at her lips, I have no clue what took over me but I suddenly kissed her. She stopped speaking and then I felt it, the sudden push. "Oppa" she screamed. I was shocked, the feeling of her lips still on mine as I traced my lips. "What was that?" she asked. "I...I like you Y/N, so much for so long now" I mumbled. Her shoulders slumped, "I'm sorry oppa but I don't feel that way." she said. "I thought..." I trailed off. "I'm sorry if I gave you the wrong idea. I just hope you will forget this" she said. "Why? Is it because of the dating ban" I asked. "What? NO, Oppa, we are veterans at this point. I just never saw you as anyone but an older brother. Someone to lean on or ask for help" she explained. My heart shattered and I couldn't even say anything. I felt tears prick my eyes. "I'm sorry, I really am. I just hope we can be friends" she begged. "I'm sorry Y/N but I need time. Can you leave?" I asked. "I'm sorry again. I hope we can be friends again" she said while walking out.

y/n.y/l/n

Liked by oscarpiastri and 267,803 others

y/n.y/l/n 3 sold out shows in Melbourne!! Thank you everyone who came. Can't wait to see you guys in Manila next!💗💗

user8 언니 너 너무 예뻐 🥹🥹unnie you are so pretty user9 Love all your shows❤️❤️ user10 Oscar was at that show and I saw him too, I think I can die happy now😭😭 user11 She doesn't have a bad angle🥵🥵 user12😘😘 oscarpiastri 🤤🤤 user13 please behave yourself Oscar🤦‍♀️🤦‍♀️

{Oscar's POV}

I walked into the McLaren garage for the meeting before the race when Zak introduced me to Y/N Y/L/N. They listened to me and invited her, when did they ever do that, my brain was short circuiting. She raised her hand to greet me, "I'M A HUGE FAN" I blurted out, quickly covering my mouth. She smiled, "I saw, the fans were talking about some Oscar at my show, so I checked and they didn't disappoint" she said winking at me. I could die happy now. "It's nice to meet you, you've helped my fan base expand" she chuckled. I laughed nervously. She turned her attention to Lando who had walked in and spoke to him for a few moments while I watched.

"Mate, you're sweating so much, don't be nervous you drive Formula One cars for a living for fucks sake" Lando joked as he saw me stare at her. "How can I not? She's my celebrity crush" I stated. "Ask her out" Lando said simply. "What? NO?" I denied. "Come on, she was flirting with you since she got here. The worse she could say is no and you will never see her" Lando reasoned. "But..." I stammered. "You wanted to meet her that's why you asked to invite her and now that she's here you won't even shoot your shot" Lando questioned.

So, eventually I did pluck up the courage and walked up to her. She was taking a few pictures when I stood in front of her, "Hey Oscar" she greeted putting her phone away. "Hi. Are you in town for a few more days?" I asked. "yeah, my concerts in a few days" she said. "Would you like to go out with me?" I asked trying to sound as confident as I could be. She smiled, "yes, I would love that" she said. "Great! Then dinner tomorrow at 8?" I suggested. "Done. Can't wait" she commented. I walked to the car with a pip in my step, my celebrity crush just said yes to going out with me.

y/n.y/l/n

Liked by oscarpiastri, mclaren and 890,296 others

y/n.y/l/n First formula one race of my life!! Thank you mclaren for having me🧡🧡

mclaren don't mention it but you should thank our driver tbh😏🤔 user14 no way Oscar suggested to invite her🥹🥹 user15 She looks so good in orange, I could never😘😍😍 user16 that outfit😍😍 user17 Is no one gonna talk about how she changed her outfit at the paddock?🙂‍↔️🙂‍↔️ user18 I would've fainted if I was Oscar🫣👀👀 landonorris user18 he almost did🫢🫢 user18 landonorris OMG!! YOU RPELIED oscarpiastri we loved having you, come back soon🧡 Liked by the author y/n.y/l/n oscarpiastri I would love to be back if you'll invite me😉 user19 what is going on between Oscar and Y/N?😌🫣 user20 user19 they're just being nice to each other, shut up🤦‍♀️🤦‍♀️