When I first listened to Professor Minoru Nojima's recital during my university days, I was shocked and never forgot it. I remember thinking, "What kind of sounds can a piano make?!" The beauty of the countless combinations of colorful sounds, woven together by perfect control, was a world that could only be described as miraculous. Although I had been studying piano for over 15 years at the time, I was astonished to discover that I had never even known or imagined that such a thing could be done with an instrument like the piano.
I was fortunate to have the opportunity to be taught by Professor Nojima when I was a student, and later my students were able to receive instruction from him for three years, which was a great blessing.
Today is the anniversary of my teacher's death, and I am remembering this great master who was warm and kind.