“Moscow in October. Golden Autumn” by Shogo Komatsuzaki
I just got back from Moscow. I’ve been there several times before, but it was always at the end of March when it was really cold. On my previous visits, it was cloudy every day and so cold that it was tough to simply go outside. So my impression of Moscow was somewhat heavy, cold, and dull.
But Moscow in October was completely different and this time I was greeted by feel-good autumn sun and breezes.
This time we performed at the Japanese Embassy and Grand Kremlin Palace.
We also led a taiko workshop for students at Moscow Tchaikovsky Conservatory and local taiko players. The workshop was about two hours long and we also joined them for a social gathering.
I felt the local passion towards music and performing arts through the wonderful support of the organizers, the townscape in Moscow in a milder season, and the smiles of the workshop participants who watched us intently.
It was a thoroughly fulfilling week and by the end of it I really liked Moscow. I was already thinking about coming back and seeing everyone again.
Thank you very much to everyone who looked after us on this visit.
I hope the bonds we made will last a very long time.
