La Corda d'Oro

La Corda d'Oro
Company type	Video game franchise
Industry	Video games, manga, anime
Founder	Koei
Headquarters	Japan
Area served	Japan, international (anime broadcast)
Products	Role-playing games, manga series, anime series
Owner	Koei Tecmo
Parent	Koei Tecmo

is a Japanese role-playing game franchise developed by Koei, primarily aimed at a female audience. Its title is derived from the Italian phrase meaning The Golden String.

The franchise was adapted into a manga series by the original character designer, Yuki Kure, which was serialized in LaLa magazine. The anime version, titled La Corda d'Oro: Primo Passo, was broadcast on TV Tokyo from October 2006 through March 2007 and later aired internationally on Animax and other channels throughout Hong Kong, Taiwan, Southeast Asia, and South Asia. In North America, Sentai Filmworks acquired the licensing rights, distributing the series in two separate half-season box sets and making it available for online streaming. Additionally, a two-episode anime special called La Corda d'Oro: Secondo Passo was shown on Kids Station in March 2009 as a promotional extension for the video game, concluding with an unresolved ending.

Plot

Kahoko Hino, a student enrolled in the General Education division of Seiso Academy, encounters Lili, a magical musical fairy who bestows upon her an enchanted violin and grants her access to the school's annual music contest. Although hesitant at first, Kahoko embraces this opportunity and realizes she can perform any composition simply by sensing its melody. Throughout the competition, she develops meaningful relationships with her fellow participants.

Characters

: (game); (anime and drama CD)

A second-year General Education student at Seiso Academy, Kahoko is kind-hearted and sincere, expressing herself through her violin performances. Unaware of the romantic interest she attracts from male classmates, she lives with her family but has limited knowledge about her father’s background. After receiving the magical violin from the fairy Lili, she discovers a newfound passion for music and influences others around her—most notably Len Tsukimori—teaching him that true music comes from emotion rather than mere skill.

A second-year Music department student and violin virtuoso. Initially distant and strict, Len gradually opens up to Kahoko and learns from her that heartfelt expression is essential in music beyond technical ability. As the son of famous musicians, he once nearly lost his capacity to play but now guides Kahoko through the complexities of the musical world.

A well-liked third-year Music student who specializes in flute. Gentle and elegant, Azuma supports his close friend Kazuki Hihara while quietly nurturing feelings for Kahoko, which he subtly conveys through his musical performances.

A first-year cello player known as "Sleeping Beauty" due to his habit of frequent naps and angelic looks. He shares a close bond with Kahoko, crediting her for helping him discover his personal "sheet music," often revealing intimate thoughts. His musical renditions are marked by deep emotional resonance.

A lively third-year Music student who plays trumpet. Kazuki is carefree and energetic; he stands by Azuma’s side and develops romantic interest in Kahoko. His friendly demeanor complements his musical abilities.

: / (young Tsuchiura)

A second-year General Education student and pianist who resumed playing because of Kahoko’s influence. Direct and expressive, he cares deeply for Kahoko and maintains a competitive rivalry with Len.

A timid first-year Music student skilled in clarinet and piano. She admires Kahoko greatly and hails from an affluent family that supports her musical pursuits.

&

Close friends of Kahoko who provide support throughout her challenges.

The playful fairy responsible for gifting Kahoko the enchanted violin. Only a select few—including school headmaster Akihiko Kira—are able to perceive Lili’s presence.

Official websites

Additional resources