November 5, 2023 Studio Concert: Four Student Reflections

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Our final studio concert of 2023 came to a successful close on Sunday, November 5.

Some students took part for the first time. Seeing how much they enjoyed dancing reminded me once again how worthwhile it was to hold the concert.

Those who had performed several times before seemed a little more nervous, but everyone had made tremendous progress. Their performances were impressive and full of presence.

As Beni said, rehearsing and performing are different experiences. There is so much that we can only learn by returning to the stage.

At the time, we planned to continue holding studio concerts in 2024 and encouraged everyone to give a future performance a try.

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Here are the reflections some participants shared with us.

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“A friend from class invited me, and I agreed without thinking too much about it. Then I saw how accomplished the other performers were and realized I had some serious work to do, so I practiced hard. On the day, the musicians and accompanists helped us enormously, and the two of us enjoyed dancing together.

Someone who came to watch told me they were moved by feeling the vibrations of the dancing through their feet.

After a performance that felt like a dream, I am ready to keep working toward the next one. Thank you so much for letting me take part in such a wonderful event.”

谷川直美

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“This was my second time taking part. I was nervous, but I think I enjoyed it more than last time.

Watching everyone's rehearsals was moving. The singing, guitar, palmas, and cajón came together as everyone worked to make the performance better. I loved seeing it develop into something stronger and stronger.

I made mistakes in places where I usually don't and felt flustered, but the accompanists helped me finish my dance. Thank you. I would love to take part again.”

Okami Mie

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“This was my first studio concert. I had so much fun, and I am so glad I tried! Since I would be dancing before an audience, I knew I couldn't prepare halfheartedly. Still, with family and work commitments, I wondered how much practice I could manage. In the end, I honored the feeling that mattered most: I wanted to dance! On the day, wonderful accompanists supported me, and I felt the warmth of Beni's studio as I danced. Thinking about the other performers' high level, I can hardly believe I put myself forward. Seeing their wonderful performances up close gave me so much energy to keep working on flamenco from the very next day. Thank you so much.”

栞 (Shiori)

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“This was my third time taking part. I had long wanted to dance soleá, and it felt as though I had finally taken the first step.

I get very nervous when I perform,

but I was so happy to dance with warm palmas and jaleos, beautiful guitar, and Miho singing my favorite letra.

Whether it goes well or there are mistakes, I think deciding to take part already deserves an ‘Olé!’

Muchas gracias!”

KUMIKO KOJIMA