Joe Hisaishi with The Philadelphia Orchestra – Marian Anderson Hall – Philadelphia (A PopEntertainment.com Concert Review)

Joe Hisaishi

Joe Hisaishi with The Philadelphia Orchestra – Marian Anderson Hall – Philadelphia – June 26, 2025

The Philadelphia Orchestra is widely regarded as one of the world's finest musical ensembles and we are lucky to have them in our city. Celebrated for their distinct sound and their unique ability to share their talents throughout many genres, The Philadelphia Orchestra has found a way to connect with diverse audiences, while helping to grow the reach of classical musical, be it traditional or contemporary. As one of the oldest orchestras in America, (ninth to be exact) the orchestra is celebrating 125 years in this 2025-2026 season.

As in the last decades, the orchestra continues to share the stage with incredible guest talent, soloists, and special events. Along with brilliant performances highlighting the best composers of all times like Beethoven, Bach, Vivaldi and Tschaikovsky, some of this year’s special guests, featured performers, and notable events including An Evening with Cynthia Erivo, Laufey, Nas, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, Music of the Movies, and for three nights this week, composer Joe Hisaishi conducted the talented musicians of the Philadelphia Orchestra as they brought his music to life.

Nostalgia is a powerful feeling that can bring a person to tears. So is music, and last night I saw that feeling hit hundreds of people simultaneously as Mr. Hisaishi, the legendary Japanese composer, stepped on stage of Marian Anderson Hall and led the Orchestra in a concert of his cherished works. I can confidently say that I have never been so moved by a performance. Not only was it moving to see a composer who created many of the melodies of my childhood, but also the remarkable talent and accompaniment of my hometown’s orchestra made the moment truly radiant.

Widely known for writing the scores to many of Studio Ghibli’s treasured films, Mr. Hisaishi has earned international recognition and critical acclaim for composing masterpieces that perfectly complement the animation. However, his talents range beyond creating those iconic arrangements, as he had also composed many symphonic pieces. One of which, his “Symphony No. 2,” led the program last night.

The Philadelphia Orchestra masterfully executed each composition. Soloists and tutti alike, harmoniously brought the music to life, truly displaying their talents and rigorous training. A moment of note was the incredible performance of principal viola, Choong-Jin Chang or C.J. His masterful playing during Viola Saga created an infectious excitement and awe as his skill echoed the hall. 

More on notable moments, Mr. Hisaishi himself was a delightful presence on stage as he conducted. I hadn’t experienced a conductor displaying a more contagious smile throughout a program. Mr. Hisaishi’s joy and eagerness to honor the musicians on stage with him was heartwarming, and truly a testament to the love shared through performing arts. 

By far the moment that impacted me the hardest was Mr. Hisaishi’s own performance on the piano. As I mentioned, his melodies from the Studio Ghibli films are a staple of my young life. Watching him sit at a piano made the room fall silent after eager clapping just moments before. In just the first few notes of the “Spirited Away Suite,” I heard the sniffles and quiet tears of audience members only to quickly realize I too was tearing up. There is something about a familiar tune that can physically shake someone to their core. When that tune is being played by its creator right before your eyes, tears are inevitable.

Music is such a powerful weapon, and simultaneously a wonderful gift. Thank you to Joe Hisaishi for an unforgettable night, and to the Philadelphia Orchestra for extending an invitation to us. We look forward to attending more programs in the future and continuing to share the beauty of your music with Philadelphia and the world.

For more information on the Philadelphia Orchestra, please visit https://philorch.ensembleartsphilly.org/

Jordan Wagner

Copyright ©2025 PopEntertainment.com. All rights reserved. Posted: June 29, 2025.

Photo ©2025 Nick Rutter. Courtesy of Ensemble Arts Philly. All rights reserved.