Today, 6 of my students, my wife and I went out to have a bowling and karaoke party in Kobe. During this time, each student sung songs in English and lo and behold one of my quietest students belted out several songs with a voice I could not believe. Singing Backstreet Boys, Billy Joel and Brittney Spears songs she demonstrated a tremendous range and her pronunciation was excellent. Wow! I and all of us were totally blown away! She had studied classical voice at the Osaka University Conservatory of Music but much prefers popular music.
I have been working with her for about a year and we often read and discuss books. She has always demonstrated an excellent understanding of English and could discuss and ask and answer questions well. She and I both like science fiction books and we are reading some short stories whenever she is the only student in the class. She always seemed a little shy and quiet but now I have seen a very different side of her. What a hidden talent she has! She really could explore a career as a professional singer. This is just another reason that I enjoy teaching English in Japan. Many of our students are exceptionally talented. In some cases English helps them to express themselves and to show off their talents.
Leave a Reply