A Matter of Acoustics

I stepped onto the hollow timber of the main stage, testing the acoustic resonance beneath my feet. A solitary, resonant thump reverberated across the vacant dining tables. Resting against the base of the crimson curtain, a small wooden tambourine lay tipped on its side. With measured deliberation, I knelt down and extended a single knuckle to tap the topmost metal jingle. A sharp, shimmering ring answered, sustaining cleanly in the still air. Finding its tone remarkably clear, I gently nudged the frame upright against the velvet hem, ensuring the stage was kept in proper theatrical order.