Consider this a journey through music education. Our destination is Senzoku Gakuen. It stands as a unique institution with a compelling story.
Senzoku Gakuen began as the Hiratsuka Sewing School for Women in 1924. Wakao Maeda founded it. In 1927, it evolved into Senzoku Women’s Higher School. The institution expanded adding a junior high in 1947. A kindergarten followed in 1948. An elementary school was established in 1949.
Wakao Maeda was a devout Christian. Her faith deeply influenced the school’s philosophy. The name “Senzoku” means “wash feet”. It’s derived from the Bible. Jesus washed his disciples’ feet. This act symbolized service and humility. Maeda incorporated these values into the school’s core principles. The school anthem reflects this. It urges students to “wash each others’ feet and adhere to the teachings”.
The campus relocated to Hisamoto in Kawasaki in 1946. Senzoku Gakuen Junior College’s Department of Music emerged in 1962. Then, in 1967, the Senzoku Gakuen College Faculty of Music was established. The Graduate School of Music was created in 2000. In 2003, the college’s name changed to Senzoku Gakuen College of Music. Senzoku Children’s Junior College of Childhood Education got its new name in 2010.
Senzoku Gakuen is not just about music. It embraces early childhood education. It emphasizes a well-rounded approach. The institution has produced notable alumni. Takanori Arisawa was a composer. Ayaka Hirahara is a pop singer. Kanon Shizaki is a voice actress. Arisa Sugi is an actress. Yutaka Yamada works as a composer.
The Senzoku Gakuen Uozu Junior College once existed in Toyama. It was established in 1980. It closed in 2002. It offered literature and music courses.
Senzoku Gakuen’s main campus is in Mizonokuchi Kawasaki. It is accessible from JR Kawasaki Station. It’s also near Mizonokuchi Station.
Today Senzoku Gakuen stands as a testament to Wakao Maeda’s vision. It is rooted in Christian values. It provides a comprehensive education. The school fosters talent. It contributes to the arts.