: Despite a powerful showing, the team places third in the tournament. The ranking is justified by judges as a result of their technical newcomer status compared to more experienced rivals like Maimai’s and Kaji's teams.
In episode 9 of Mashiro no Oto (Those Snow White Notes), titled "," the focus is on the Matsugorou Cup's group competition. The Umezono Academy's Tsugaru Shamisen Appreciation Club delivers a bold and emotional performance, though reviews are mixed regarding the technical execution of the episode itself. Plot Summary: The Matsugorou Cup Performance
: Reviewers from Honey's Anime praised the "best moment" when Setsu and Rai-senpai made an impromptu change to the piece, showing Setsu's growth as a collaborator rather than just a solo virtuoso.
: A common complaint in community discussions was the use of voiceover commentary and unrelated background piano music that occasionally drowned out the actual shamisen playing.
: After the competition, Maimai and Setsu have a brief but memorable interaction where Setsu compliments her playing, causing her to reconsider her competitive obsession. Critical Review & Community Reception