Tokyo Geijutsu Daigaku

 

Tomoko always aimed high, even as a teenager. Not only did she attend a prestigious high school, but she also was admitted – and graduated – from Tokyo University of the Arts: the most prestigious art school in Japan – and the only national arts university in Japan.

The Tokyo Fine Arts School and the Tokyo Music School were each founded in 1887, and then merged in 1949. Three years earlier they started admitting women to their all-male institutions. Many famous composers and other musicians graduated from this important school. 

As a high schooler, Tomoko already knew about this university. To check it out, Tomoko took a train to central Tokyo to see the university for herself. “What a wonderful cultural center! Next to national museums and parks. I may never want to leave,” she thought. Her parents thought that whatever one pursued, it should be done well, and they were supportive: “Always strive for the best,” they told her. 

Tomoko was excited when she heard from the university about her application; they want her to come to campus to audition. Tomoko soon found out about the competition: 500 applicants, and the university accepted only eighteen students! As for the audition process? It took four days! She shared her passion of music, and could give evidence of her hard work and discipline.  “It was worth the four days,” Tomoko determined. She was one of the fortunate eighteen accepted. Interestingly, most of whom were females, even though fewer than three percent of the university’s total student population were women.

Tomoko found that her classmates shared her mindset, sharing their passion for music and learning. By 1961 Tomoko felt prepared for graduate school and a music career. Tomoko was proud that she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree with highest honors. Her parents’ declaration, that whatever one pursued it should be done well, was personified in Tomoko.  

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A student's letter about Tomoko

I had the honor of being a student of Ms. Tomoko Hagiwara for nine years before going off to college. Five years later, I still brag about having an overzealous Japanese piano teacher who is like a second mother. Not only did she constantly push me beyond my musical limits by challenging me with the most exciting and difficult pieces, but she also instilled a deep appreciation for music and desire to share my talents with others.

After joining the working world, I realized so clearly the impact Ms. Hagiwara had on my upbringing. Everything I learned in her two-piano classroom has translated directly to the “real world.” Discipline, incredible work ethic, high standards, pressure cooker situations, performing at the highest level, and acting with class are all fundamental lessons I have embedded in my value system. With equal importance, she vocalized her concept of “Yoshi!” – the resilient spirit necessary in finding a way to succeed no matter the challenges; this means grabbing things in the moment and learning quickly. Despite the gallons of tears I have cried and urges to give up at times, I look back with a great sense of accomplishment, inner strength and ability for overcoming.

Ms. Hagiwara has equally applied her teachings to all of her students throughout her nearly 50-year tenure (shhh!) with more vigor and ferocity over time. Her passions have transformed the quality of prep department of the SFCM and held it to the highest standard. Simultaneously, she has created a sense of family among all her students spanning generations and has well prepared them for their journeys in college. I can never repay her for all her tough love and the impact she has had on my life. However, I am proud to have known such an amazing and selfless person and forever grateful of her.

Andrew Ahn