It was a windy day in New England when I first met Arlene. At the time, I was a senior in high school and I was applying to Brown. Little did I know that she will be my mentor and a special person in my life for many years to come.
I was fortunate to get accepted to Brown and have Arlene as my piano teacher. Being away from home for the first time, she was like my second mother. I further felt a connection with her as I was originally from Japan and she was a second generation Japanese. She was the best teacher I could ever ask for. Arlene was a phenomenal pianist and she knew exactly what I needed to do to improve and mature as a musician. Her devotion to her students and generosity with her time was exceptional. She was always encouraging, challenging, and most of all caring.
In my sophomore year I entered the annual concerto competition, but I did not get through the first round. Arlene suggested that I try again the following year and this time I won. It was one of the most memorable experiences in my life to play the Ravel Concerto with the Brown University Orchestra. It probably was the turning point of my life as I started to consider pursuing music as a career. She taught me about projection in concert halls and different tone qualities. She also taught me how to engage in performance and connect with the instrument.
I remember having a long conversation with Arlene about my decision to apply to music conservatories. She knew that I was not the most dedicated and diligent student, and told me that it is not an easy road to take. I knew deep down that this was what I wanted to do with my life, and she was ever so supportive with my choice.
I kept in touch with Arlene after I left Brown to go to the New England Conservatory and later on to the Royal College of Music in London. I saw her every time I visited the New England area.
Had I not met Arlene, I wouldn’t be who I am today. I feel ever so grateful for her believing in me. She was truly an incredible teacher and individual. I am thankful that we were able to meet on the screen quite a few times in the recent years and she was able to see my little boy. She was always positive and smiling, and ever so kind. Thank you for helping me find my path, Arlene. I will miss you tremendously, but cherish our memories together forever.
Akemi Fujita ’98