The
holidays provide wonderful opportunities to keep in touch. Music offers another
rich set of ways to connect with each other. Tomoko takes advantage of these
many options.
Tomoko’s
students have stayed in touch with her over the fifty years that she has
taught, sending her letters of appreciation, as well as bringing their children
to become Tomoko’s students. They have not only attended her recitals, but have
also recorded them to share with their friends. On her part, Tomoko has invited
her students, both past and present, to perform at the recitals that she plans.
She even performs along side them in compelling duets.
As a
professional pianist, Tomoko has used music as a way to “break the ice” in new
situations, using the universal language of music to make connections and start
friendships. “My English was not so good, so the music spoke for me,” she recalls.
Likewise, Tomoko continues her professional associations by performing with her
musician colleagues, and corresponding with them. More than once her musical
friends have connected Tomoko with their own children, visiting at home or
writing to keep in touch.
In each formal
performance, Tomoko connects with her audience through her interpretation of
the music she performs. She serves as a translator between the composer and the
listener, capturing the intent of the composition and expressing it
intellectually, emotionally and kinesthetically.
A
recital, concert or other musical event also enables people to connect with
each other because of the music. It is both a personal and communal experience.
When the audience is asked to join in the music, be it in song or dance, they
contribute substantially to that connectedness.
And even
without direct contact, Tomoko connects with her associates and students
through the performances she has recorded – and her own memory. She says, “I
can remember the pieces I gave the students 40 years ago.”
This
season may everyone keep in touch through music. It helps to make a harmonious
world.
