[For Beginners] Recommended Ghibli Masterpieces You’ll Want to Play on the Piano

On a sunny dayJoe Hisaishi

[Easy Piano] Studio Ghibli – Kiki’s Delivery Service – “On a Clear Day”

This buoyant waltz colors the scene in Kiki’s Delivery Service where the protagonist sets off with hope in her heart.

The melody, brimming with exotic flair from the accordion and mandolin, seems to capture the anticipation of entering a new world.

Although it was reportedly composed at a rapid pace to coincide with the film’s July 1989 release, the piece’s expansive, joy-filled lines betray none of that rush and are truly captivating.

Its steady, easy-to-grasp triple meter makes it a great recommendation for piano learners.

Start by playing the beautiful right-hand melody as if singing it, then add the simple accompaniment; you’ll find it leads smoothly to playing with both hands.

Carrying YouAzumi Inoue / Joe Hisaishi

"Carrying You" from Castle in the Sky (Laputa) by Joe Hisaishi [Piano Tutorial You Can Definitely Play Even as a Beginner! Learn via Video] Level: ☆☆

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This is the theme song from the film Castle in the Sky, which enjoys great popularity among adult beginners who are taking on the piano, thanks to its bittersweet, romantic atmosphere.

The melody line is exceptionally beautiful, so even a simple accompaniment is enough to convey the moving world of the original.

Since the left hand doesn’t cover a very wide range, it’s easy to focus on the flow of the right hand, making it recommended for beginners.

Start by mastering an arrangement where both hands play single notes, then gradually challenge yourself with scores that add richness—such as chordal accompaniments—to build a fuller sound.

Always With MeYumi Kimura

[With Sheet Music] Always With Me / Spirited Away [Super Slow Easy Piano for Beginners to Practice] yuppiano

The warm singing voice and nostalgic melody of the theme song from Studio Ghibli’s feature-length animated film Spirited Away gently soothe the heart.

Many of you may remember Yumi Kimura performing it while lightly strumming chords on a lyre.

With a simple chord progression over which a calm, flowing melody moves horizontally, it requires minimal hand position changes and is easy to play on the piano.

Please give it a try.

againJoe Hisaishi

Again – from Studio Ghibli’s film “Spirited Away” – Piano – Level ★★★☆☆ – Beginner to Intermediate

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It’s a grand and beautiful piece that plays during the climactic, dreamlike flying scene in the film Spirited Away.

Beginning with a quiet melody and gradually building in emotion, it evokes the hope that lies beyond hardship and the strong bonds with those we hold dear.

A later version with lyrics also exists, expressing a bittersweet yet warm longing for reunion.

This piece was included on the album Spirited Away Soundtrack, released in July 2001.

It’s a perfect choice for those who want to bring this sweeping world to life with their own hands.

As you recall the story’s moving moments, aim for a performance that richly shapes dynamics and stirs the hearts of listeners.

DepartureJoe Hisaishi

[Beginner Piano] Departure Level 2 [Free Sheet Music]

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This is an iconic piece from the film Kiki’s Delivery Service that brings to mind the scene where the heroine sets off for a new town.

The bright, refreshing melody played by the orchestra perfectly captures that thrilling feeling of taking a first step with hope—and just a touch of anxiety—in your heart.

Beloved since the film’s release in July 1989, this piece lifts your spirits just by listening.

Its friendly tune makes it a great recommendation for those taking on the piano as well! With a simple left-hand accompaniment arrangement to practice, it’s easier to grasp the buoyant rhythms in the right hand.

Try playing these hope-filled tones that herald the beginning of the story.

The River of That DayJoe Hisaishi

Joe Hisaishi - “One Summer’s Day” [Absolutely Playable Even for Beginners! How to Play on Piano] Level: ☆☆☆

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This piece, from the film “Spirited Away,” leaves a lasting impression with its quiet, nostalgic melody that symbolizes the shifting emotions of the protagonist.

The gentle, unhurried piano timbre evokes a bittersweet yet warm feeling, as if recalling past memories or something precious.

In fact, this work was originally a song with vocals, included on the album “Spirited Away: Image Album” released in April 2001, and in the film it was used in an arrangement centered on the piano.

It has been loved beyond the framework of the movie, serving as background music for TV programs and stage productions as well.

It’s a perfect piece for those who want to play as if cherishing each note and weaving a story.

Aim for careful sound production that highlights the beauty of the melody, and try performing while picturing the scenes in your mind!

CatbusJoe Hisaishi

[Piano Beginner] Catbus Level 2 [Free Sheet Music]

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It’s a lively, dynamic piece that brings to mind the scene in the film My Neighbor Totoro where Satsuki and Mei ride a mysterious creature through the night sky.

The song first appeared on the album My Neighbor Totoro Image Song Collection, released in November 1987, and its charm lies in a light, catchy feel that children naturally hum along to.

The fantastical, bouncing melody seems to capture the excitement of setting out on an adventure.

The tempo is fast, and coordinating both hands with a springy touch may take some practice, but start by playing the melody with one hand as if you’re humming it.

Once your fingers get used to it, try both hands with the feeling of dashing lightly ahead!