Listening is the other side of the coin for music. While one
can play for one’s own enjoyment, the power is in performance that others hear.
Tomoko has many insights on this phenomenon.
One of Tomoko’s student’s mother was Indonesian and Baptist.
She would stay at the Conservatory while her child took lessons because she “loved
the beautiful music.“
Another student of Tomoko's studied at Tanglewood. “I am so
surprised that people go to hear classical music. I didn’t know so many people
were interested in classical music.”
Tomoko remarks about the quality of the piano as an
instrument. “Part of the discipline of piano performance is to
know the instrument, which requires close listening.”
Reinforcing that idea, Tomoko remembers having her students
play at San Francisco’s City Hall. “There were 200 people listening, many of
whom were homeless. One of the homeless men asked if he could play, and we let
him. He played very well, and it made his day.” Tomoko remarks, “I like
homeless people more because of that musical connection.”
The space in which the piano is performed impacts the
listening experience. Tomoko especially likes the European cathedrals in which
concerts occur, emphasizing the community experience.
More generally, Tomoko explains how music brings people
together. “Music isn’t just for society ladies, not just for the elite.” She
points to the nationalism of Chopin’s work, and the folk songs that Bartok drew
upon. “Music is a natural urge, and a way for people to express their
commonalities and celebrate.”
So, in the final analysis, listening to music is a way to
confirm and reinforce our humanity.
