The anticipation is building for Joe Hisaishi's return to the stage with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra as they announce their special tour for July 2025, showcasing music from cherished Studio Ghibli films.
The concerts, dubbed the Studio Ghibli Film Concert Tour Final, will take place at the iconic Tokyo Dome on July 16 and 17, 2025, starting at 19:00 each evening. This groundbreaking event sees Hisaishi, well known for his work with director Hayao Miyazaki, conduct the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra alongside esteemed choirs including the Tokyo Philharmonic Chorus and the Breckinridge US Chorus. Joining them will be soprano Ella Taylor and vocalist Maaya, with Marie Buerloo on mandolin. Marching bands from Japan’s Ground, Maritime, and Air Self-Defense Forces will add to the grand spectacle.
The rich program features beloved themes from films like "Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind," "Castle in the Sky," "My Neighbor Totoro," "Kiki's Delivery Service," "Porco Rosso," "Princess Mononoke," "Spirited Away," "Howl's Moving Castle," "Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea," and "The Wind Rises." Tickets for this iconic event will range from 8,500 yen for B seating to 15,000 yen for premium S seating.
General ticket sales will kick off on April 18, 2025, at 12:00, and demand is expected to be high after the successful reception of previous concerts at venues like the Wembley Arena and Madison Square Garden, where audiences were captivated by the music of Hisaishi as it complemented the stunning visuals from the Ghibli catalog.
But it doesn’t stop there. Following the Tokyo Dome concerts, Hisaishi will showcase another sensational performance at Tokyo’s Suntory Hall on July 24 and 25, 2025. This event will feature the Japan premieres of the Harp Concerto and the Symphonic Suite "How Do You Live?" alongside Hisaishi's Symphony No. 3, named Metaphysica, which marks another highlight for fans of Hisaishi’s innovative work.
Emmanuel Ceysson, known for his exceptional harp skills, will lend his talents as the harp soloist for this concert. The ticket prices for the Suntory Hall performances range from 10,000 yen for D seating to 20,000 yen for S seating, all tax included, with general sales also slated for April 18, 2025, at 12:00.
Hisaishi, who began his career as a contemporary composer, has seen immense success and acclaim. His scores for films such as "Kiki's Delivery Service" and "Spirited Away" have earned him awards both nationally and internationally. His contribution to the world of film music is significant, often blending orchestral arrangements with innovative styles, captivating audiences and critics alike.
Continuing his collaborative work with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, where he serves as Composer-in-Association, this tour solidifies Hisaishi’s commitment to bringing orchestral film music to life on grand stages. With over 200 concerts annually, the Royal Philharmonic is known for its dedication to artistic excellence and outstanding performances.
This special concert series aims to not only celebrate the legacy of Ghibli films but also to introduce new works to the audience, merging nostalgia with fresh, original compositions. The tours promise to be rich emotional experiences as they channel the magic of Ghibli melodies live.
Hisaishi continues to innovate within the orchestral music scene, launching initiatives like the "FUTURE ORCHESTRA CLASSICS" which showcases modern classical works. His engagement with music extends beyond traditional classical boundaries, reflecting his desire to connect with diverse audiences.
This summer, Japanese fans are set to experience the enchanting blend of stunning visuals and entrancing melodies, as Hisaishi’s concerts are much more than just performances; they are immersive experiences celebrating storytelling through film and music.
Tickets for Hisaishi’s performances are expected to sell out quickly due to high demand, reflecting his sustained popularity both at home and abroad. For those interested, staying updated on the ticket sales and concert details will be key for securing seats at these unmissable events.
The entire orchestra will be ready for their performances, working together to deliver breathtaking renditions of Hisaishi's iconic scores, ensuring audiences leave the concert halls filled with memories long after the final note fades.