I think that's the point. While the public wants a competition, the author and MC is saying it doesn't have to be that way. Art isn't a competition. Despite how it may appear like they are competing, they are also finding success and growing with each other. Competition doesn't mean you abandon people and step on them to be on top.
it was unnecessary to have such a long arc for this, completely destroyed any sense of rivalry between any of the contestants and the energy to compete evaporated into friendly camaraderie, this competition thats supposed to be on a global scale thats a REALLY big deal is suddenly as serious as a neighborhood competition?
I'm interpreting your response as thinking the competition is like a sports competition. Again, music/art is not like that.
Let's just agree to disagree. I believe this arc is important since it establishes the purpose of the MC in this new life he got.
um the competition just seems very “friendship is magic”ish, its not giving competition