In Tokyo College of Music (TCM), students from around the world come together to pursue their musical dreams. We recently interviewed Yu Jiaqi, a senior violinist originally from Xi’an, China. We sat down with Yu to hear about his journey from studying music in China to finding his own artistic voice in Japan, and even performing in Europe.
Read his experiences below!
Name: Yu Jiaqi
Nationality: X’ian, Shaanxi, China
Year: Senior
Major: Violin
Why did you choose to study at Tokyo College of Music (TCM)?
I was studying the violin at the music high school in Xi’an Conservatory of Music. Since high school, I had always dreamed of studying abroad, especially in Japan. My mentor at the high school, Mr. Wong recommended TCM to me. After I searched TCM on the website, I was very impressed by its beautiful campus and supportive environment. I was also excited about having the opportunity to learn from Professor Mayuko Kamio, who is one of the world’s amazing violinists. With encouragement from my family, I made up my mind.
What do you like most about TCM?
What I truly like about TCM is its balanced approach to music education. The music education that I experienced in China tended to emphasize techniques on how precisely or quickly you can play. However, in TCM, there is also a strong focus on musicality and creativity. I have been able to enjoy learning not only music, which I am majoring in, but also other fields and styles. Participating in orchestras, competitions, and even learning new instruments has expanded my perspective as a musician.
How were your first days in Japan, especially with the language?
Honestly, it was very tough at the beginning. Before coming to Japan, I had studied Japanese and passed the JLPT N2 (Japanese-Language Proficiency Test) in China. But once I arrived in Japan, I realized how hard casual conversation with native friends is. I struggled to keep up with native Japanese friends, but thankfully, students in TCM are very kind and welcoming. I was able to make a lot of friends who helped me improve my Japanese through everyday interactions. That made a huge difference.
How would you compare studying music between China and Japan (TCM)?
I think the biggest difference is the mindset. In China, everyone focuses on musical techniques a lot. That is why the lessons and practice tend to be very strict. In addition, with a huge population, music education became more competitive, so I constantly felt the pressure to outperform others. While the environment helped me develop strong technical skills, I sometimes felt that something was missing. Its education might not have matched my style.
TCM, on the other hand, offers many opportunities, such as orchestra concerts, ensembles, and competitions, which encouraged me to explore my music style. Learning style here at TCM resonates with my belief that music is not just about creating “perfect” performance, but it is about having my own approach and creativity above and beyond techniques.
What kind of music activities have you enjoyed at TCM?
I have had a variety of musical experiences here through participating in orchestras and chamber ensembles. What surprised me most was how active and student-driven the students are. They are very passionate about collaborating with each other and sharing their thoughts about music. I could also join a jazz session with friends and professors every Friday night. That is such an inspiring environment!
Also, during my sophomore year in the winter, I participated in the Bavarian States Youth Orchestra in Germany. The Bavarian State Youth Orchestra has a training camp in the first half and a performance trip in the second half. I was able to have new experiences and create new friends, which had a huge positive influence on my way of thinking toward music, my own identity, and my future career.
For the TCM study trip, I went to Switzerland and France. It was a short trip, but I had a great time there. I was able to interact with teachers at school. I also had an amazing opportunity that I could perform in the Main Hall of the Zurich University of Arts. The experiences in Bavaria and Switzerland led to other great opportunities, such as joining a master class at the Zurich University of Arts and a friend’s orchestra in Bavaria. These moments in Europe made me realize the possibilities of a global music career.
What are your plans after graduation?
Through the study trip in the Bavarian State Youth Orchestra and in Switzerland, I feel more certain about my future career. Now, I am thinking of applying for the master’s program at the Zurich University of the Arts. At that same time, I am interested in working in Japan as well. I have grown attached to both places, and I am exploring how I can bridge the two worlds in my future path.
Last Words
My time in TCM has been more than just learning musical skills. It has been a journey of self-discovery. Thanks to the guidance from my professors and the support of my friends, I was able to grow not only in skill but in heart. I learned how to express myself through music and how to find my own creative voice. I will carry everything I learned here into the next chapter of my life!
