[Ghibli] Timeless Ghibli Classics in Classical Arrangements: The charm of Ghibli music performed with live instruments

If I could become the seaShigeru Nagata

[Ghibli 12] If I Could Become the Sea from Ocean Waves (Umi ni Naretara) [BG Music for Work]

From Ocean Waves.

This is the ending theme, composed and arranged by Shigeru Nagata, who also handled the film’s score.

It is sung by Yoko Sakamoto, who also voiced the heroine.

The lyrics—expressing a wish to become as calm as the sea—are particularly striking.

Its slow-tempo melody evokes the image of unhurried time and a tranquil ocean.

Someone at any timeRed Dragon

Anytime, Someone on the Piano — from Studio Ghibli’s “Pom Poko”

From Pom Poko.

This song was used as the ending theme.

Shang Shang Typhoon is a six-member musical group.

Their style is unlike a typical band: they base their performances on a “shamisen banjo,” a banjo strung with shamisen strings, and incorporate drums, electric guitar and bass, keyboards, traditional Japanese instruments, and various folk instruments.

They are characterized by a truly “borderless” sound that draws on Ryukyuan scales and Asian folk music.

Their 1994 release “In This Asian Town” also served as a theme song for the same film.

The vocalist’s striking voice and the band’s distinctive sound are pleasing to the ear, and the repeatedly sung lyrics make it a song that gives you courage.

contrailYumi Arai

Contrail / Mie United Wind Orchestra

It has a nostalgic vibe that makes you want to listen to it over and over.

This time I’m watching the movie with my child, so we can listen together.

I’m in awe of music and movies that can be enjoyed across generations.

And I’m sure I’m not the only one who gets teary-eyed when hearing this melody.

If I'm wrapped in kindnessYumi Arai

[Telework/Kansai Philharmonic String Quartet] “Wrapped in Kindness” from the Studio Ghibli film Kiki’s Delivery Service

The ending theme of the film Kiki’s Delivery Service, sung by Yumi Matsutoya, is performed in a classical arrangement for string quartet with violin, viola, and cello.

The refreshing accompaniment and the gentle, title-like melody make it a more elegant listening experience.

Ghibli music played on live instruments is wonderful, too.

Teru's SongHiroko Taniyama

From 'Tales from Earthsea' — Therru's Song — Felice Conservatory

From ‘Tales from Earthsea.

‘ Aoi Teshima’s original version was used as an insert song.

It was her debut single and became a major hit.

Hiroko Taniyama, who also composed the piece, is a singer-songwriter.

She made her debut after bringing a song she had written to a record company.

The lyrics are based on Sakutaro Hagiwara’s poem ‘Kokoro’ (Heart), and they reflect the protagonist’s loneliness and sense of isolation.

It’s a song that perfectly matches the film’s worldview and can be considered synonymous with the movie itself.