There’s something truly magical about Studio Ghibli films. Whether it’s the breathtaking animation, heartwarming storytelling, or unforgettable characters, these films have a way of staying with us long after the credits roll. But one of the most powerful elements that makes Ghibli movies so special? The music.
As a huge fan of Studio Ghibli and Joe Hisaishi’s work, I’ve had the privilege of immersing myself in this music beyond just listening—I’ve recorded two albums, created countless YouTube videos featuring his compositions, and performed his pieces extensively. His music has been a huge part of my artistic journey, and I know firsthand just how deeply it resonates with audiences around the world. But what is it about his compositions that makes them so timeless, emotional, and universally beloved? Let’s take a deep dive into what makes Studio Ghibli music so magical.
1. Melody-Driven Storytelling
Hisaishi’s music isn’t just background noise—it’s an integral part of the storytelling. His melodies often act as a character of their own, carrying the emotional weight of a scene just as much as the dialogue and visuals. The melodies are instantly memorable, often simple yet deeply expressive, allowing listeners to relive the film’s emotions with just a few notes.
Take Merry-Go-Round of Life from Howl’s Moving Castle—the waltz-like melody is whimsical yet nostalgic, reflecting the film’s themes of love, time, and transformation. Or One Summer’s Day from Spirited Away, which starts with a delicate, almost hesitant piano phrase before blossoming into a rich, emotional theme that mirrors Chihiro’s journey of growth and self-discovery.
2. The Perfect Blend of Classical & Minimalism
Hisaishi’s music blends elements of classical, minimalist, and impressionist styles, creating a unique and timeless sound. This combination creates a sense of nostalgia, wonder, and emotional depth, perfectly complementing Ghibli’s dreamlike visuals.
- His classical influences can be heard in pieces like Path of the Wind (My Neighbor Totoro), which features flowing arpeggios and a lyrical melody reminiscent of Debussy or Chopin.
- His use of minimalist repetition (inspired by composers like Philip Glass and Steve Reich) creates a sense of motion and atmosphere, as heard in The Sixth Station (Spirited Away).
- Impressionist harmonies and lush orchestrations add warmth and depth, making the music feel both delicate and powerful at the same time.
3. Emotionally Intuitive Themes
Hisaishi has a rare gift for composing themes that feel emotionally “right” for a scene. His music doesn’t just describe emotions—it evokes them in a deeply personal way. His music taps into universal human emotions, making it instantly relatable to audiences across cultures.
For example:
- The Name of Life from Spirited Away carries a mix of longing, hope, and melancholy, perfectly mirroring Chihiro’s journey.
- Princess Mononoke’s Theme conveys both sorrow and strength, reflecting the film’s complex themes of nature, humanity, and conflict.
- Laputa: Castle in the Sky’s main theme is both adventurous and deeply poignant, capturing the film’s themes of wonder and loss.
4. A Deep Connection to Nature & Fantasy
One of the reasons Studio Ghibli films feel so immersive is their profound connection to nature and fantasy, and Hisaishi’s music plays a huge role in bringing that to life. The rich textures and orchestration in Hisaishi’s music create a living, breathing world that transports the listener beyond the screen.
- In My Neighbor Totoro, the light, airy woodwinds in The Wind Forest evoke the playful spirit of the forest spirits and the magic of childhood.
- Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind features otherworldly synths and orchestral swells, making the landscapes feel vast, mysterious, and alive.
- Princess Mononoke uses chant-like motifs and powerful orchestration to reflect the deep connection between humans, gods, and nature.
5. Nostalgia & Timelessness
Ghibli music has a way of sticking with us for years, even if we don’t rewatch the films often. There’s a timeless quality to Hisaishi’s compositions that makes them feel as fresh and moving today as they did decades ago.
- The warm piano of One Summer’s Day instantly brings back feelings of childhood wonder.
- The joyful, bouncy rhythms of My Neighbor Totoro make us feel light and carefree, no matter how old we are.
- The soaring melodies of Merry-Go-Round of Life feel just as emotional and epic now as they did when we first heard them.
Final Thoughts: The Magic of Hisaishi’s Music
Studio Ghibli films wouldn’t be the same without Joe Hisaishi’s breathtaking music. His ability to blend emotion, storytelling, and atmosphere into every note is what makes his compositions so powerful.
From the whimsical charm of My Neighbor Totoro to the epic, sweeping themes of Princess Mononoke, his music has a way of making us feel completely immersed in the world of Ghibli. The haunting beauty of The Tale of the Princess Kaguya, the playful yet nostalgic melodies of Kiki’s Delivery Service, the dreamlike waltzes of Howl’s Moving Castle—each soundtrack is uniquely crafted, yet they all share that distinctive emotional depth that makes Hisaishi’s music unforgettable.
What’s your favorite piece of Studio Ghibli music? Let me know—I’d love to hear what resonates with you the most!
NATALYA PLAYS PIANO 
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