Community
In Loving Memory of Mr. S, Nathan Sugimoto
Evan Kawamura
Mr. S was Mr. Strict but also Mr. Soft. He was hard and strict when he needed to be, especially when the we (students) were misbehaving, not playing the correct sharps or flats, or not playing on rhythm. There were some brutal times, but we got whipped into the “perfect practice makes perfect” mindset.
The last time I played for band was when I got to see Mr. Soft. After our concert was over, he gave me and my classmates leis and a really big, loving hug that was accompanied by watery eyes and some tears. This was truly a special moment to see Mr. Strict turn into Mr. Soft by seeing that he really loved us despite how often we saw Mr. Strict.
It was very shocking and tragic when I heard that Mr. S passed. He’s now Mr. Solace to me, knowing that he’s in a place of comfort, rest, and peace, but we are in a place of sorrow and grief. Therefore, Mr. S will forever be in my heart as Mr. Strict, Mr. Soft, and Mr. Solace. I look forward to playing trumpet in Heaven with you, and I know that it’ll be a concert greater than we’ve ever played together in the presence of our Father and Conductor.
Love, Evan
