[Blog] Activity Report: My Stay in New York

This summer, I spent about a month in the United States and Canada.

In the U.S., I stayed in New York for about three weeks. It was my first time returning to the city in about seven years, since I had previously spent three months there as a university student studying dance. My last stay had been in the middle of winter, and I still vividly remember the severe cold and heavy snowstorms. This time, however, I experienced New York in the height of summer. The days were long, the city was filled with people enjoying their vacations, and the atmosphere was lively and welcoming. The climate was also pleasant and comfortable, which made the stay even more enjoyable.

During this long-awaited return, I was once again struck by the overwhelming energy of New York. People from all over the world, each with their own individuality, coexist in this city. It gave me the impression of a place that embraces everyone with openness and inclusivity.

While in New York, I attended a language school and at the same time had the opportunity to take lessons with voice teachers and vocal coaches. Thanks to the kindness of the teachers I had met during TIVAA before my trip, I was introduced to many wonderful instructors, which led to valuable new connections.

The teachers I studied with included vocal coaches at the MET, professors at the Manhattan School of Music, and a voice professor at the Juilliard School—all distinguished professionals at the forefront of the field. They were remarkably generous and open-hearted, welcoming me warmly even though I had contacted them rather suddenly from Japan, and graciously gave me their time.

In the lessons, I not only received technical guidance but also advice on how to build my repertoire in the future and how to establish a path for expanding my activities in Paris and across Europe. These insights went beyond music itself, offering concrete perspectives on career development, which I consider an invaluable asset.

What impressed me particularly was the approach of the vocal coach in the U.S. Working daily with top singers at the MET, they possess an extraordinary depth of knowledge about vocal technique and vocal timbre. Their perspective extends far beyond the role of accompanist—they truly understand and support the singer’s voice itself. From this foundation, they offered unique and thought-provoking advice on repertoire choices and interpretation, which gave me many new insights.

Through this stay, I was able to build meaningful connections that I hope will continue into the future. Since it was the off-season for opera, I unfortunately couldn’t see any performances at the MET, but I would love to return during the season to attend performances next time.

New York is a city that always offers profound learning experiences. Until now, I had often thought of Europe as the main place for study and felt some distance from New York, but this trip changed that perspective. I now feel inspired to visit again next year or the year after, seeking new challenges and fresh inspiration.