So last month I went to Tokyo and had quite a blast over there. Helped a friend pick a new clarinet. Tested soprano saxophones and mainly went to see Platina Jazz live. Also A new barrel for my clarinet is here, a recommendation from the friendly clarinet player I met at the conference. I said a ton I would update this and I never did... so I came up with the title just now.
In other news I signed up for doctor course and scholarship extension, my GPA barely qualifies and that surprises me quite a bit(I got straight As besides one C I got) I did not think it would affect it so much. So if all goes well I will be staying here 4 years, if not I will just go back to the big V.
I work as an English teacher and a friend asked me what I did during this trip to Tokyo so I explained it to him. I went with someone to give them advice and help picking a new clarinet, he asked me if I paid for my own travel and lodging expenses and he answered with this "You spent the equivalent of your monthly salary just helping out, so what do you get out of it" Since I went with a girl I guess he implied some sort of romantic retribution. When I explained him there was nothing of the sort now or later. He proceeded to explain to me how much of an idiot I was just by adding the equivalent "cost" of my assistance and help so far he was even leaving out any expenses I incurred to provide assistance; seeing the situation, I am starting to think he is right. I like her, she doesn't like me(not in the same way at least), but she is getting clear benefits for my presence so I doubt she gains anything from cutting me off. In conclusion, I guess I am an idiot and don't the value or lack thereof of my actions. I guess I can quote him on one he said "you have people paying here 1500 yen an hour to meet you one hour a week and that person gets taught clarinet from you on almost a daily basis, pays nothing and gives you nothing" so I guess I need to straighten up my act for my own benefit later on.
This year, that prefecture concert is also happening, this time they chose really difficult songs so I ended up playing first in most of them. Most people know my name even when I have never met them which kinda worries me since I don't know what sort of image of mine is famous. What rumor is it that is spreading, but besides being unable to make a first impression it doesn't seem too bad. Seems I will spend Christmas and New Years volunteering alone since I don't have anyone to spend either date with, should be okay though at least I got my basics covered. Living such an easy life recently puts things in perspective. All in all I guess I am a mess right now, but all the conditions are set to fix it. Slammer out.
