The Sound of Serenity–An Australian Boy’s Piano Turns a Kyoto Tea Room into a Magical Space
I waited for about 15 minutes in front of Hankyu Arashiyama Station when I got an email. It said, ‘Hi Aki, We are at the bus stop Hankyu Arashiyama Station. I am wondering if I am at the correct location?’ I was startled when I read the email from Geri. I realized that I was waiting at Hankyu Arashiyama Train Station. I quickly replied, ‘Please wait there!’ and ran to the bus stop. At the bus stop, I found a family of three waiting.
The father waved at me with a warm smile. Despite making them wait for 15 minutes in the cold, they welcomed me warmly.
Today’s guests are from Queensland, Australia. They’re a family of three: Dave, the father; Geri, the mother; and their 14-year-old son, Will. ‘It must be the middle of summer in Australia right now,’ I said. As I’m really feeling the chill here in Kyoto, I miss the heat of summer!’
It’s evident that Dave and Geri cherish their son, Will, as a precious treasure.
Dave is a very kind man who skillfully keeps the conversation flowing by interjecting comments between my and Naoko’s turns.
Geri is always smiling and enjoys the fresh sweets and matcha tea that were served.
Will is a charming 14-year-old boy with a bright smile. When I asked him, ‘What’s your favorite subject?’, he shyly replied, ‘Math’. It was quite impressive.
In fact, he has a special talent: playing the piano. He’s been taking piano lessons from a Japanese piano teacher living in Australia since he was young.
I had a truly magical experience after the workshop. While crafting the tea ceremony workshop completion certificate in the Western-style room, Will filled the air with the most beautiful piano music. His gentle melodies and expert playing were so enchanting that Naoko and I were transported to another world. I found myself pausing my work to simply listen, and even Naoko was moved to tears.
Two hours with the Smith family flew by. We had a very meaningful time exchanging cultures with each other. As they were our first guests this year, I think it was a great start.
I received a heartwarming email the following day.
Dear Aki and Naoko,
Thank you so much for allowing us into your beautiful home and sharing your knowledge with us. It was such a beautiful experience, giving us a glimpse into your very rich and peaceful culture. We will always remember the values of wa, kei, sei and jaku and will be thinking of you both whenever we prepare our matcha at home.
Wishing you both all the very best of health, happiness and prosperity.
Best regards,
Dave, Geri and Will
