This year marks 80 years since the atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima. In an instant, countless lives were lost. However, it wasn’t just human lives that were taken—animals, plants, and all forms of life were reduced to ashes. Even so, some things survived, scarred but enduring. One of them is the “Hibaku Piano” (Survivor Piano).
Recently, Amicus welcomed this “Hibaku Piano” from Hiroshima and held a “Peace Concert.” Unfortunately, I was unable to attend as I was accompanying the 8th graders on their school trip. However, the teacher in charge of the event kindly sent me a video of the day, which I watched multiple times. The sound of the piano, battered by the war, reminded me of the tragic incident of the atomic bombing 80 years ago. At the same time, it made me deeply grateful for the present moment, where we can still hear the beautiful music this piano continues to produce.
At Amicus, students and teachers from various nationalities gather to learn together on Okinawa, a place that was once a battlefield. As a school, we place great importance on peace education. The “Hibaku Piano Concert” was a valuable opportunity to reflect on the significance of peace.
After the concert, the student who served as the MC sent the following email to the teacher in charge:
“Thank you very much for all the support you gave me during the preparations. Being involved with the Hibaku Piano as an MC was an incredibly valuable experience.
As part of my middle school committee activities, I participated twice in fundraising campaigns for war-affected areas. Through those experiences, I realized that I want to use my English skills to take action and contribute to the global community. This realization led me to decide to attend an international school in Osaka that focuses on English and international issues.
Studying at Amicus, where diverse cultures and ways of thinking are respected, has been an irreplaceable time in my life. The English skills I acquired at Amicus, the knowledge about the Battle of Okinawa that I gained from living here, the interactions with students from other countries, and precious experiences like this concert—these are all things I want to cherish as I move forward.
Even in a new environment, I will treasure these experiences and continue to grow. The Hibaku Piano Concert further strengthened my determination to enhance my English skills and find ways to make a difference. Once again, thank you for providing me with such a valuable opportunity.”
At Amicus, we hold various events throughout the year. Seeing our students reflect on themselves and grow resiliently through these experiences is one of the greatest joys of being an educator.
