-First of all, please tell us your biography so far as a brief introduction.What was your musical experience before studying abroad?How old have you been?
Ms. Chiba: I started learning the piano at the age of 4, went on to a high school with a music department, graduated from Tokyo College of Music, and entered a graduate school master's course in New York.
-What made you decide to study abroad?
Ms. Chiba: I had the opportunity to study abroad at the Music University of New York (Manes Conservatory) for a year while I was in college, and at that time I had a wonderful encounter with sensei, and I was fascinated by the energy and art culture of the land of New York. I decided to go on to graduate school in New York.
-How did you choose your current school?Please tell us how you got to the current school.also.What was the deciding point?
Ms. Chiba: I chose Aaron Copeland Music School because of the introduction of sensei I met in New York.The deciding factor was not only practical skills, but also top-notch and wonderful professors in music theory and music history.Also, because it is a municipal school, tuition fees are much more affordable than private schools.
-What kind of exam / application documents did you need?Do you have any tips on how to write it?Also, if you have any memories of the exam or stories of difficulties, please let us know.
Ms. Chiba: The exam is practical and music theory, and you need to submit various documents such as TOEFL score, recommendation letter, and reason for aspiration.The hardest part was studying TOEFL and having to understand music theory in English.
-Are there any difficulties in the procedure?
Ms. Chiba: The difficult part of the procedure was the language aspect.Also, the visa procedure was difficult because there were many documents to be submitted.
-How long ago did you start preparing for study abroad?
Ms. Chiba: About 10 months before studying abroad, I started preparing gradually.
-How did you pay for your tuition?
Ms Chiba: My parents are financially supporting me.
-How long have you studied languages in Japan?Should I go to a language school locally?
Ms. Chiba: After deciding to study abroad, I studied hard for TOEFL.TOEFL is required to study abroad at a graduate school in the United States.Going to a language school locally costs money and time, and I think that if you can't see the future overseas, you will become more anxious.It was a condition for me to learn English as much as possible from an early stage in Japan and to study abroad after deciding to go on to study as a regular student.
-What is the atmosphere of the school?What are the unique characteristics of the school?
Ms. Chiba: The school is a very good environment with a lot of wonderful halls and practice rooms.In addition, it is a general university with a large site and a relaxed atmosphere with lots of greenery.
-How many Japanese are there?
Ms. Chiba: There are few Japanese people who can get to know everyone.I am the only piano major.
-How do you proceed with your school lessons?Please let me know if you have any studies that you should do well in Japan.
Ms. Chiba: In any class, we are often asked for opinions.Every day I feel that I need to have my own opinion and the ability to speak.
-How did you find sensei?
Ms. Chiba: When I first studied abroad in New York, I didn't have any tips at all, so I consulted with Japanese piano sensei and searched the homepage of Manes Conservatory for a sensei that seemed to suit me.Currently, I am taking lessons by directly asking sensei, who I met at school.
-How do you practice on a daily basis?
Ms. Chiba: I practice at school every day.
-Are there any off-campus sessions or concerts?
Ms. Chiba: It is done frequently.
-What is your general schedule for the day?
Ms. Chiba: I spend my time at school from 2 am to XNUMX pm.This semester, classes are only held two days a week in the afternoon.In the morning, I practice individually, and on days when there are no lessons, in the afternoon I practice individually, combine chamber music, and do lesson assignments.
-Is it possible to reach out to the local music industry?
Ms. Chiba: Depending on your efforts and relationships, I think you can do something.
-How is the learning attitude of the people around you different from Japan?
Ms. Chiba: I feel that the American students around me are very active in expressing their opinions and asking questions during class.
-How do you spend your time outside of class?
Ms. Chiba: When I'm not in class, I often practice and go to concerts on campus.
-Are there any tips for dealing with non-Japanese people?
Ms. Chiba: The first thing to do is to improve your English conversation skills.I also realize that it is important to have a dignified attitude and listen carefully to the other person's story.
-Are there any moments when you are happy to study abroad?
Ms. Chiba: When I was able to see the best performance unique to New York, and when I was able to overcome the differences and become friends with people who have different values and ideas from different countries.Your world will expand and you will be able to make great use of it in your musical expression.
-Are there any places where you changed or grew up after studying abroad?What do you mean, for example?
Ms. Chiba: I have come to have clearer opinions on various things.I think that made the performance more persuasive than before.
-What kind of course are you thinking about in the future?
Ms. Chiba: I would like to do music activities in Japan.
-If you have any questions or suggestions that you should keep in mind when studying abroad, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Ms. Chiba: Have a strong will and solid goals, but do your best without being overly concerned.
-Thank you for your cooperation.
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