Lullabies for a Good Night

Tomoko’s daughter Beata is a new mother. Her son Kai was born May 11, 2017. Not surprisingly, Tomoko loves her grandson, and sings lullabies to him. “He likes Brahms,” Tomoko says.

Kia has good taste: Brahm’s lullaby is probably the most well known one, usually called “Cradle Song” – “Lullaby and goodnight, with roses bedight” (you can hear it at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Lullaby_wound_up_clock_guten_abend_gute_nacht.ogg) . Published in 1868, the lullaby was dedicated to Brahms’ friend Bertha Faber to honor the birth of her second son.  Variations of that melody were woven into Brahms’ Symphony No. 2 in D major Opus 73 first movement.

Other famous composers have written lullabies – or songs resembling lullabies, such as 6/8 time berceuses, which Chopin pioneered. Ravel wrote Berceuses sur le nom de Gabriel Fauré, Benjamin Godard wrote a berceuse from his opera Jocelyn, Stravinsky’s berceuse is part of his Firebird ballet, and Gershwin wrote Lullaby for String Quartet.

Lullabies play an important role in young children’s development. The simple, repetitive melody helps little ones go to sleep. Lullabies are also an early form of communication; they are usually sung with emotion that conveys warmth and tenderness, and can hold a child’s undivided attention. The rhythm of lullabies also helps a child learn the rhythm of language. 

Additionally, lullabies serve as a way to pass down societal traditions, and have been sung for centuries around the world. Tomoko and Beata sometimes sing Japanese lullabies together, bringing back memories when Beata herself was a baby. It's a lovely way to start a musical life.

Ways to communicate

Tomoko has several perspectives about communication. Tomoko claims, “Communication is closer if you know the context.” Here are some of those contexts.

“When I arrived in America I didn’t know much English. If people said bad things about me, I didn’t know. That’s how I survived.”

“I don’t tell people that I am a pianist – then I am on the job instead.” On the other hand, Tomoko says, “Several friends of mine are teachers at the Conservatory where we talk together at lunch.”

Talking is important to Tomoko when she teaches. When students just need confidence, Tomoko tells her students, “You can make it.” She will also trick them by saying, “I was worse than you.”

For Tomoko, “Music is conversation. It is a sentence. It is a language.” 

This interaction is special during a performance. Tomoko ponders: “What is the communication between performers and audience? Mysterious.”

She states, “Performance is conversation that is thrown to the audience.” More specifically, Tomoko asserts, “Expression in musical performance communicates.” She also muses, “I hope the audience gets it. I can’t control how they feel.”

It is clear, though, that Tomoko’s music is very articulate.

The Companionship of Music

When asked, “Why do you like music?” Tomoko replied, “Companionship of music is lifelong. It supports me. It’s my guardian angel.”

Tomoko’s musical companionship is not passive;“Music takes a long time to learn and gain over time.  It is hard job, but you sleep well.” Tomoko goes on to say, “I focus my mind and eye and finger, any forget my problems.”

Part of that companionship arise from music’s ability to communicate. Tomoko comments, “Music needs no translation. Music is a way to know other people because people enjoy music. It’s like sharing a fireplace that is nice and warm and relaxed. There is a warm common feeling. “

Tomoko remembers several episodes where music was linked to companionship. “I had a good time at college where I was a piano major. We pianists were all together and are still good friends. We would  study in the morning and practice the rest of the day.” 

Tomoko also remembers bringing her students to play at 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.”

More generally, Tomoko explains how music brings people together. “Music isn’t just for society ladies, not just for the elite. Stern Grove, for instance, offers free musical performances outdoors; it is music for all.” Tomoko imagines a person going to a musical event: “Hey, I can go it.” That interest comes from a natural urge.

Tomoko concludes: People can welcome music anytime. Music is remarkable. I don't have to say anything, and music gives me friendship."