Title: The Enigmatic Pianist -- a high level reading ecercies for C2 ESL Students

TeacherMark

In the heart of the city, nestled within the bustling streets, there stood a grand concert hall known as The Melodia. It was renowned for hosting world-class musicians and captivating performances. One evening, as the city lights twinkled, a peculiar figure emerged on The Melodia's stage.

The figure was a pianist, draped in a black cloak that concealed their identity. The audience hushed in anticipation, unaware of the enigma that was about to unfold. With a gentle nod to the conductor, the pianist's fingers gracefully danced across the keys, unleashing a symphony of emotions.

The audience was mesmerized by the pianist's masterful performance. Each note carried the weight of a thousand stories, evoking joy, sorrow, and everything in between. The pianist's skill was beyond compare, captivating the hearts of all who listened.

As the performance reached its crescendo, a sense of curiosity grew within the crowd. Who was this mysterious pianist, hidden beneath the cloak? The audience yearned to unravel the secret behind the captivating music.

The following day, newspapers buzzed with headlines about The Melodia's mysterious pianist. People speculated, shared theories, and wondered about the persona behind the music. The pianist had become a symbol of intrigue and fascination, sparking a wave of curiosity that swept through the city.

Despite the speculation, the pianist remained shrouded in anonymity. They continued to enchant audiences night after night, leaving them spellbound with their virtuosity. The music became the sole medium of communication, transcending the need for a visible identity.

Over time, the city's obsession with the pianist shifted from unmasking their identity to embracing the magic they brought to the world. The pianist's performances became legendary, and The Melodia became a pilgrimage site for music lovers worldwide.

As years passed, the pianist's final performance at The Melodia approached, marking the end of an era. The grand hall was filled with a mix of emotions – excitement, nostalgia, and a profound sense of gratitude for the musical gift that had been bestowed upon them.

In a climactic finale, the pianist took their final bow, revealing their face to the world. It was a moment of revelation, a culmination of a journey filled with mystery and wonder. The audience erupted in thunderous applause, grateful for the music that had touched their souls.

And just like that, the enigmatic pianist vanished from the stage, leaving behind a legacy that would be remembered for generations to come. The Melodia stood as a testament to the power of music and the allure of the unknown.

Difficult words:

• Enigma: Something or someone that is mysterious and puzzling.
• Virtuosity: Exceptional skill or talent, especially in the arts.
• Nostalgia: A sentimental longing for the past or a sense of wistful affection towards something.
• Culmination: The highest or climactic point of something; the final result or outcome.

Discussion Questions:

1. How did the pianist captivate the audience?
2. Why did the audience become curious about the pianist's identity?
3. How did the city's perception of the pianist change over time?
4. What do you think the legacy of the pianist represents?
5. Have you ever been fascinated by someone's talent or skill? Who was it and why?
6. Can you think of any real-life examples where someone's anonymity or hidden identity added to their appeal or allure?
7. How does music impact your emotions and why do you think it has such a powerful effect?
8. If you were the enigmatic pianist, how would you feel about remaining anonymous and letting the music speak for itself?

Answers:

1. The pianist captivated the audience with their masterful performance. The skillful and expressive way their fingers danced across the keys created a symphony of emotions that deeply touched the hearts of those listening.
2. The audience became curious about the pianist's identity because they were shrouded in mystery. The cloak that concealed their face sparked intrigue and speculation, making people eager to uncover the person behind the captivating music.
3. Over time, the city's perception of the pianist shifted. Initially, people were obsessed with unmasking the pianist's identity, but as they continued to deliver exceptional performances, the focus shifted to appreciating the magic they brought to the world through their music. The pianist became a symbol of wonder and fascination, and people embraced the mystery surrounding them.
4. The legacy of the pianist represents the power of music to transcend boundaries and touch the depths of human emotions. It highlights the allure and fascination of the unknown, reminding us that sometimes the greatest impact can come from those who choose to let their art speak for itself.
5. The answer to this question will vary among students, allowing them to share their personal experiences and encounters with talented individuals who fascinated them.
6. Real-life examples of individuals whose anonymity or hidden identity added to their appeal include street performers who wear masks or costumes while showcasing their talents, anonymous graffiti artists, or authors who choose to write under pseudonyms. These instances create a sense of intrigue and mystery around the artists, sparking curiosity and interest.
7. Music has a profound impact on emotions because it can evoke specific moods, memories, or sensations. It has the power to transport us to different emotional landscapes, whether it's uplifting our spirits, soothing our souls, or resonating with deep emotions. The discussion can delve into personal experiences and the different ways music affects individuals.
8. The answer to this question will vary depending on personal perspectives. Students can share their thoughts on anonymity and the power of letting their art speak for itself versus seeking recognition and fame. They can explore the advantages and disadvantages of anonymity in the context of the story and their own artistic aspirations.