Renowned for his evocative compositions, Japanese maestro Joe Hisaishi continues to captivate audiences worldwide. His music, notably created for Studio Ghibli animated films, has filled concert halls and secured his place in the hearts of many.
Hisaishi’s debut with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra is a testament to his popularity, with all four shows in 2024 selling out. Additionally, he is set to perform at New York City’s Radio City Music Hall, gracing the stage for seven consecutive nights this month.
Drawing parallels to the famed collaboration between John Williams and Steven Spielberg, Hisaishi’s partnership with Studio Ghibli has yielded music that resonates with wide audiences, blending seamlessly with the narratives of beloved films.
Beyond film scores, Hisaishi’s latest album explores the realm of classical music, a field he has navigated for many years. Released on July 24, the album features Symphony No. 3, “Metaphysica,” and a harp concerto crafted for French harpist Emmanuel Ceysson, conducted by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.
Commissioned for the 50th anniversary of the New Japan Philharmonic, Hisaishi’s Symphony No. 3 debuted in 2021. Inspired by Gustav Mahler, Hisaishi constructed a composer’s hut akin to Mahler’s, and scored his symphony for a large orchestra, emphasizing woodwinds. Despite its complexity, the symphony is relatively short, at just over thirty minutes.
Delving into metaphysical themes, the symphony’s three movements—“existence,” “where are we going?” and “substance”—probe the nature of reality, time, and consciousness. Hisaishi employs rhythmic motifs and sonic exploration, crafting a piece rich in orchestral texture and harmony.
Harp Concerto
Emmanuel Ceysson, a longtime admirer of Hisaishi’s use of harp in film scores, commissioned the harp concerto. Appointed principal harpist of the LA Philharmonic in 2020, Ceysson sought a piece from Hisaishi, leading to a joint commission with support from various prestigious orchestras including the National Opera Orchestra of Bordeaux and the Singapore Symphony Orchestra.
Known for his dynamic playing style, Ceysson met with Hisaishi in California during the composer’s 2023 conducting engagement with the LA Phil at the Hollywood Bowl. Their collaboration continued in Japan, culminating in a harp concerto that defies traditional norms. As Hisaishi notes, “The harp is usually associated with graceful, gentle and calm music, but this concerto is intense, wild and dynamic—quite different from traditional concepts.”
The concerto’s structure showcases Ceysson’s prowess, with intricate rhythms and a climactic finale. Ceysson’s distinctive Art Deco red harp, designed by Carlos Salzedo, complements his vigorous playing, promising a visually and audibly stunning performance.
This recording of Hisaishi’s harp concerto and Symphony No. 3 is a tour de force, offering listeners a powerful and moving auditory journey.
