You're right, anime and manga have very different approaches to try and move the audience.
Here the director used most if not all the techniques he could to touch the audience feelings.
It did not work for me in this instance like it did in many other anime. But I recognize the efforts and I think the sequence was nicely done.
I'm a little worried to have an almost perfect performance so early in the show. I understand that they all have room for improvement, but from the OP I fear we are to experience much dama with the new girl who is to join the club.

I hope we can get more Koto at some point.