Joe Hisaishi, the renowned composer and musical director, is set to enthrall audiences with two major concert events this July and August, marking significant milestones and collaborations with esteemed orchestras. The first of these events is the "Studio Ghibli Film Concert World Tour Final," hosted by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, where fans will be treated to iconic music from beloved films such as "Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind" and "Spirited Away." Scheduled for July 16 and 17, 2025, at the Tokyo Dome, these performances promise to be spectacular showcases of Hisaishi’s genius. Hisaishi will be conducting the orchestra, which will also feature vocal performances from soloists including Ella Taylor and Mai Kuraki, along with the Tokyo Mixed Chorus.
The ticket prices for these thrilling concerts are set at 15,000 yen for S seats, 13,000 yen for A seats, and 8,500 yen for B seats, with general sales opening on April 18, 2025. This concert follows Hisaishi's role as Composer-in-Association with the Royal Philharmonic, through which he has been closely involved with the orchestra's planning and programming.
After the Tokyo Dome concerts, Hisaishi will continue to showcase his talent at Suntory Hall on July 24 and 25, 2025. These concerts will feature significant premieres, including the Harp Concerto and the Symphonic Suite "How Do You Live?" both making their debut performances in Japan. Highlights from this concert also include Metaphysica, Hisaishi's Symphony No. 3, presented by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Hisaishi himself and featuring Emmanuel Ceysson on harp.
Looking forward to August 2025, Hisaishi is set to lead another exceptional concert titled "Praying Song 2025" with the Japan Century Symphony Orchestra. This concert is not only significant as it commemorates the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II but also marks Hisaishi's official appointment as the Music Director of this orchestra, which will commence its collaboration with him on April 1, 2025.
"Praying Song 2025" is slated for performances across Japan, with events planned for August 23 at Aichi Prefectural Art Theater, August 25 at Festival Hall, Osaka, August 26 at the Hyogo Prefectural Art and Culture Center, and August 27 at Tokyo Opera City Concert Hall. The program for this special concert includes Steve Reich's "Desert Music" and Hisaishi's own "Praying Song" and "The End of the World." Tickets for this concert will be available at prices ranging between 6,500 to 8,000 yen, going on sale starting April 18, 2025.
Fans of Hisaishi can expect his concerts to be as much about creating emotive connections through music as they are about celebrating the narrative arcs represented by the film scores and orchestral works. A prolific artist, Hisaishi has built his career on the popular melodies associated with Studio Ghibli films, collaborating with acclaimed director Hayao Miyazaki on numerous landmark projects.
Beyond film scores, Joe Hisaishi remains committed to orchestrally-intensive projects, having produced over 40 solo albums since his career began, with his capability to blend contemporary and traditional styles. His most recent release, "A Symphonic Celebration," has won accolades, placing him firmly on the Billboard classical charts.
Throughout his career, Hisaishi has garnered numerous prestigious awards, including multiple Japan Academy Awards for Best Music and the 2024 Windsor McKay Award, representing lifetime achievement in animation from the Annie Awards. His continual dedication to fostering new talent and broadening the orchestral experience makes him a significant figure within classical music circles worldwide.
For audiences around the world, the upcoming events not only represent Hisaishi's artistic brilliance but also promise unique opportunities to experience music intended to resonate deeply, stirring emotions originally guided by the visuals of animation and film. Editors and music enthusiasts alike are eager to see how these concerts will capture beloved storytelling through innovative orchestral renditions.
The Japan Century Symphony Orchestra, under Hisaishi’s directorship, is expected to bring the same level of creativity and artistry to the "Praying Song 2025" concert, offering audiences performances infused with deep cultural significance themed around peace and reflection on the past.
This series of concerts marks another chapter of international collaboration for Hisaishi and his ensembles as they continue to bridge the gap between cultures, employing music to transcend language barriers.