Tomo Fujita Guitar Wisdom

Hi Tomo & George, I've been an on-and-off member of the TFGW program for almost a year now, and I really love Sensei Tomo's way of integrating and emphasizing triads and arpeggio foundations in his guitar playing and teaching style. I wanted to ask Sensei Tomo a somewhat broader question.

What was/is your experience in the music scene in Japan, and would you recommend immigrating to Japan to work in the industry?

I am a music and audio professional in my home country of the Philippines with a bachelor's degree in Music and Audio Production, and I was wondering if you might have any insight as to the scene and viability of working in Japan as a music & audio professional, I guess in comparison to working in the states where you currently reside. I'm a US Citizen as well, so I am currently just weighing my options on whether to head to the States, immigrate to Japan, or stay in my country and work with the network I have here.

I really love Japan and Japanese culture, but I understand that being a "gaijin" may be a hindrance, although I am currently learning the Japanese language to try and better appreciate, communicate, and learn the culture. :)

Thank you so much for your teachings in both guitar and philosophy towards being kind to oneself, and I hope I get a chance to meet you one day, Sensei Tomo. Hope all is well.

Regards,
Matt

Here is Tomo's comment:

"Thanks, Matt, for subscribing to my Guitar Wisdom. We really enjoy adding new and important content to this site. Japan is a wonderful place to live, whether you are in the city or the countryside. I moved to Boston when I was 21, so I am not an expert on the music business in Japan these days. But with a strong commitment and plenty of preparation, you will be fine -- especially if you speak the language. Whenever I visit Japan, I notice many more foreign residents than there were when I was young. I wish you the best on your musical adventure!"

Thank you so much!

I only lived there until I was 21... then I started going back there for teaching & Performance. I love Japan! Very special place.

In order to work there, you need to understand Japanese.

About " Gaijin " Lately more and more foreigners are visiting & living in Japan so I don't surprise anything there.
These days, if you go to Seven Eleven in Japan. Mostly I see foreigners are working with polite Japanese manners.

Maybe you should visit there for two weeks at time and you can feel it.

Hope you will have a great time there!

You're very welcome! So happy to hear that! Thank you.