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Home / History / Letter from Tae 2001

Letter to SOCS from Tae, May 2001

Hello,

My name is Tae Ito, a girl who loves England very much. I am 16 years old. I was born in Nagoya in Japan, where I live with my parents and my 12-year-old sister, Kazuyo. I attend the Senior High School in Nagoya, and hope to go to University to study Politics, and perhaps Economics - but that will not be for another 3 years!!

photo of tae At present I am spending a school year in England, where I am studying for GCSE in English, and A/S Levels in Music, Maths and I.T.

I decided to come to study in England for two reasons: the first is to improve my English, and the second is to experience a different culture. I want to be a diplomat, and so I need to know if I have the talent to cope with a different culture.

At first I found it very difficult to speak in English. I had to translate from Japanese into English in my mind every time I had to talk, but I have some great friends who always tried to understand me and helped me to improve my English.

In February a friend, Georgina, told me about SOCS. We were in the School Choir together, and she asked me if I would like to sing ‘Elijah’ with the Sittingbourne Orpheus. I found it very difficult at first, especially singing the words! But it was great fun, and it was good for my English as well. It was good to sing such a famous piece. Actually this was the first time that I have sung a full oratorio.

I was so impressed with the concert. The Hall was filled with the audience, and the orchestra, and us! It was one of the greatest moments I have ever had.

Now I am going back to Japan to continue my studies. I won’t forget the people I met in this Choir. They have given me precious memories. I will remember particularly Ray, who always made our Choir sing better, Michael, the great pianist, Ken, who always made me laugh, and my good friends, Georgina, Lesley, Kate and Sue.

Thank you for having me as a member of SOCS. I really enjoyed being a part of you all. Thank you very much again for everything. I will keep in touch with you, and hopefully see you again in the future!

Tae
(Written in May 2001)