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Sakura, 12, shows why---
http://arioso7.wordpress.com/2011/12/22/taekwondo-and-piano-are-a-good-match-for-sakura-video-note-the-rolling-forward-wrist-motion-in-kabalevskys-galop/
Aikido
Main article: Aikido
Aikido shihōnage technique.
“Aikido (合氣道:あいきどう aikidō?) is a modern grappling-based Japanese martial art developed by Morihei Ueshiba (植芝 盛平 Ueshiba Morihei, 1883 – 1969). The art consists of “striking”, “throwing” and “joint locking” techniques and is known for its fluidity and blending with an attacker, rather than meeting “force with force”. Emphasis is upon joining with the rhythm and intent of the opponent in order to find the optimal position and timing with which to apply force. Aikidō is also known for emphasizing the spiritual and philosophical development of its students reflecting the religious background of its founder.
“Morihei Ueshiba developed aikido mainly from Daitō-ryū aiki-jūjutsu incorporating training movements such as those for the yari (spear), jō (a short quarterstaff), and perhaps also juken (bayonet). Arguably the strongest influence is that of kenjutsu and in many ways, an aikidō practitioner moves as an empty handed swordsman.”
Sakura comes for her lesson when it's already dark at 6:30 p.m. and she's in full Aikido garb.
At 12, she speaks Japanese and German fluently. And it can get confusing at times when one or the other parent picks her up and chatters off in the native language. (Dad is from Germany, mom, from Japan)
I'm always awestruck when Sakura easily slips from one mode of communication to another without skipping a beat.
Both parents, University faculty, were determined to keep their cultures alive and well as they raised three children and they've done a masterful job.
Sakura has taken piano lessons for two years now, and is one of my rare left-handed pupils. It doesn't seem to factor into her playing, because I wouldn't know of this predisposition if my eyes were open or closed.
Her pronounced dedication to practicing has an intensity that keeps propelling her forward, and she understands the importance of keeping the steady rhythm of learning alive and well.
In the repertoire arena, Sakura has studied the works of J.C. Bach, J.S. Bach, Kabalevsky, Clementi, and Mozart.
Recently, she performed Bach's Prelude no. 1 in C from the Well-Tempered Clavier at her Middle School talent show. And through the grapevine I heard that it was with flying colors.
Yesterday, on a cold evening in Fresno, she played a sprightly "Galop" by Kabalevsky and demonstrated her mastery of the spring forward wrist. (Notice the rolling motion that drives the 16ths to the long note)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U3IAjC7ASPg
Bravo, Sakura! You're a joy to teach!
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