ロンドン在住の看護師さんでフィリピン出身の方が来られました。「箏に興味がありました」とのこと。熱心にお稽古して下さり楽しいお話しも沢山。「東京は都会過ぎるから行きたくないです、京都が好き。」九州や金沢などへも行かれ大好きな海鮮も堪能されて・・ウニ、いくら、甘えび、マグロなど、こぼれんばかり載った海鮮丼の写真を拝見。5千位したそうですが感激されています。神戸牛、とんかつ・・食べ物の話しが止まりません。ということで、この後、例に寄り?近くのお蕎麦屋さんに、案内してあげて「とんかつ定食」を注文して、お別れしました。ロンドンに帰られたら忙しい日々に戻らなければ、ということですので暫しバカンスを楽しんで下さいね。
I had such an incredible and memorable experience learning the koto with Harumi-sensei. In just one session, I was able to learn not just one, but two songs thanks to her excellent teaching and generosity with her time.
Harumi-sensei is extremely knowledgeable, talented, and passionate about music. She comes from a musical family, and you can really feel the depth of tradition, skill, and love for the art in the way she teaches. She was so patient, kind, and encouraging throughout the entire lesson, making me feel comfortable even as a beginner.
I was warmly welcomed into her grandparents’ beautiful 120+ year old house, which added such a special and authentic atmosphere to the experience. The home itself is full of history and charm, making the lesson feel even more meaningful and immersive.
At the end of the session, Harumi-sensei performed a song for me, and it was absolutely beautiful and moving. I left feeling deeply grateful — not only for learning a new skill, but for experiencing something so cultural, personal, and unforgettable.
I have the highest respect and appreciation for Harumi-sensei. This was truly one of the most unique and meaningful experiences I’ve ever had in Japan.
I would highly recommend this experience to anyone interested in Japanese culture, traditional music, or simply creating a special and unforgettable memory.