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In Loving Memory of Mr. S, Nathan Sugimoto
Haley Fleming
I had Mr. S as my ukulele teacher back in elementary, and then later on in middle school, as my band teacher.
Although I’ve had some music professors in college this past year, Mr. S easily is still to this day my favorite and has taught me more than anyone else could have. He was tough, don’t get me wrong.
Although I’ve had some music professors in college this past year, Mr. S easily is still to this day my favorite and has taught me more than anyone else could have. He was tough, don’t get me wrong.
I’m pretty sure if you had him as a high school band teacher, he made you cry at least once, but we all knew it was out of love for both his students and music itself. I have two very specific memories of him that I will remember forever.
The first being a private conversation between me and Mr. S. I remember being so afraid of going to college to pursue music and wanted to receive advice from him. He gave me some much needed insight on making music a lifestyle and really encouraged me overall. One thing he told me that I use as motivation is, “Practice doesn’t make perfect, but it makes you better.” I stick to this motto whenever I practice and will continue to do so and share that message with anyone and everyone.
Another fond memory was on the 2022 Fine Arts Trip to Florida. Our group may or may not have tricked Mr. S to go on this crazy roller coaster at Universal Studios. When he realized what we were waiting in line for, he paused, contemplated turning back (with the occasional “oh my gosh”), but ultimately went with us and actually enjoyed it! I remember just seeing him happy to have gone with us and also enjoy the ride.
Mr. S has forever left an impression on not just me, but all students who had the pleasure and honor of having him as a teacher and mentor.
The first being a private conversation between me and Mr. S. I remember being so afraid of going to college to pursue music and wanted to receive advice from him. He gave me some much needed insight on making music a lifestyle and really encouraged me overall. One thing he told me that I use as motivation is, “Practice doesn’t make perfect, but it makes you better.” I stick to this motto whenever I practice and will continue to do so and share that message with anyone and everyone.
Another fond memory was on the 2022 Fine Arts Trip to Florida. Our group may or may not have tricked Mr. S to go on this crazy roller coaster at Universal Studios. When he realized what we were waiting in line for, he paused, contemplated turning back (with the occasional “oh my gosh”), but ultimately went with us and actually enjoyed it! I remember just seeing him happy to have gone with us and also enjoy the ride.
Mr. S has forever left an impression on not just me, but all students who had the pleasure and honor of having him as a teacher and mentor.
