Joe Hisaishi Returns

From the exhilarating climax of his sold‑out June concerts, celebrated composer Joe Hisaishi returns to the stage—this time taking the baton before The Philadelphia Orchestra, a group he lovingly calls “as smooth and rich as fine wine.” With a filmography that spans more than 100 soundtracks and seven Japanese Academy Awards for Best Music, Hisaishi is a towering figure in contemporary music. His legendary partnership with Hayao Miyazaki has filled the world’s most cherished Studio Ghibli films—such as the Oscar‑winning *Spirited Away* and the newly released *The Boy and the Heron*—with unforgettable melodies. This program is a whirlwind tour of Hisaishi’s most iconic scores, reborn for the concert hall. First, the *Symphonic Suite from Castle in the Sky* invites the audience on a sweeping, cinematic voyage, translating the film’s soaring adventure into full‑throttle orchestral drama and wonder. Next, the *Symphonic Variation “Merry‑Go‑Round”*, inspired by the unforgettable waltz from *Howl’s Moving Castle*, unfolds in a richly textured symphonic landscape that extends the original theme’s emotional breadth to new heights. The evening doesn’t stop there. Watch Hisaishi conduct his own living compositions: *DA‑MA‑SHI‑E*, a jaunty, Escher‑esque piece bursting with rhythmic energy and Hisaishi’s signature warmth that climaxes in a finale of pure enchantment. The concert also showcases Britten’s *Variations and Fugue on a Theme of Purcell*—the famous *Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra*—performed here without narration, offering a masterful showcase of orchestral color. Join us for an unforgettable journey through film music and orchestral brilliance, and discover what makes Joe Hisaishi one of today’s most celebrated musical voices. [Details & tickets]