I love leaves. These are Ivy and Dokudami (Double-flowered Houttuynia cordata). Baba-san picked them from her garden and brought them over. We had a wonderful time. (Michiko)
I bought a violin shoulder rest at Tuttofare, a string instrument specialty shop near Ofuna Station in Kamakura City. I tried it out on my instrument before deciding. (Michiko)
My smartphone is like my home. Visitors who care about me are welcome. I decline calls from people who don’t care about me and don’t welcome me. That’s my smartphone’s identity. (Michiko)
This is my 28th Yamaha drum lesson at Fujisawa Yurindo. The key thing to remember from today’s lesson is how to use the right foot on the drum pedal. Lift from the knee, not the ankle, and stabilize the toes as I press down. At the same time, avoid swaying my upper body and shift my weight forward. One or two things to work on before next time will be a fresh challenge. (Michiko)
Yesterday, I wrote about my feelings towards the violin. Today, I would also like to write some memorable words related to that. These are the words of two violin teachers who taught me at Kyoto City University of Arts during my university days. Nearly 25 years after I started living in Honolulu, Hawaii, for my husband’s new business, Professor Iwabuchi, whom I hadn’t seen in a long time, suddenly called me. We talked about many things over the phone and fax. When I said, “I’m continuing to play the violin like a turtle,” he replied, “It’s fine to be like a turtle. Keep playing the violin like that.” We also had a pleasant, casual conversation, like, “Come back to Japan when it gets warmer. Let’s go out for sushi.” The other teacher was Ms. Kimura (formerly Nakanishi). I received a letter from her when I graduated from university. One line from the letter read, “Never forget that you will continue to study throughout your life, and keep steadily moving forward.” Both teachers have nurtured many excellent students. Nevertheless, I am grateful that they left such a quiet voice in my heart, a voice that will never fade away. (Michiko)
In many ways, my goal is to continue playing the violin throughout my life, in my own way. Maintaining motivation and continuing to learn, even at a slow pace, is a talent in itself. As I get older, I plan to buy a new shoulder rest to reduce the strain on my shoulders and jaw. Adapting my playing technique to suit my body is an enjoyable experience. (Michiko)
I’m busy at my own pace, but not too busy. Taking breaks is important. My daily treat is ice cream at my home cafe. I have to be careful not to eat too much! (Michiko)