I think I have posted enough entries to express my fascination with Japan and its culture. And it has always been a dream of mine to witness, if not take part, in a Japanese tea ceremony or, in Japanese, cha no yu. Witnessing the demonstration made me realize all over again Japan's "obsession" with restraint and order which is incomprehensible yet sensible to me.
Despite the seriousness and solemnity called for by the tea ceremony, I was still able to enjoy the occasion due to a couple of things. Seeing my sensei in her kimono as she performed the ceremony got me totally amazed. Watching my classmates' attempt on the said art was kind of amusing too. But the fact that I got to taste the wagashi and authentic matcha made by sensei sent me immediately to cloud nine. Too bad I wasn't able to bring a camera and take pictures to share though. :(
Just after attending the cha no yu demonstration, my friend and I immediately went to the venue for Quatuor Diotima's performance. We arrived a bit late as the quartet already started their first song so we had to wait before we can enter the hall. Too bad for us youngsters as a strict-looking lady scolded us while we waited at the lobby. :|
To be honest, I have a love-hate relationship with classical music. But when we were invited by a friend to go see a French string quartet FOR FREE, I'm like, 'why not?'. And, the invitation really came on time as I am currently rekindling my affair with classical music since last month. I realized that it helps me keep my sanity through all the things I have to do.
I can't help but respect Quatuor Diotima and, along with them, all those who are so dedicated to playing instruments. I really felt goosebumps while listening to them perform and sometimes, I would get so carried away by the melody the my head sways to the beat. Watching people like them inspires me to just be good at what I can. I mean, if they can affect me so much by being so good in their music then, I must work hard to be good in my craft too before I can start aspiring to influence others in a positive light. I feel sad that I am not able to speak French. I wanted to express me appreciation but I can't. (As if I can do such thing in Japanese if I will be able to attend a Yuki Kajiura performs. LOL!) Maybe I should start studying French too?
In the end, my friends and I got to get a picture with the quartet members. :P
I'm really thankful for this day. Makes me love my school even more for bringing in such rare opportunities closer to students.
MORE! MORE! :D
