Composer Joe Hisaishi is set to begin a seven-concert residency at New York City's Radio City Music Hall, performing with MasterVoices and the Orchestra of St. Luke's. The engagement is scheduled to run from August 11 through August 17.
Hisaishi, known for his scores for Studio Ghibli classics such as "Spirited Away," "Howl's Moving Castle," and "Kiki's Delivery Service," will present music from Studio Ghibli films as well as scores from directors Takeshi Kitano, Isao Takahata, and others. The 75-year-old composer's recent performance at the Hollywood Bowl on July 22 featured a 24-song set list, according to Set List FM. The program included pieces from "My Neighbor Totoro," "Princess Mononoke," "Ponyo," "The Boy and the Heron," among others.
Reviews of Hisaishi's live performances have noted the timeless quality and magical nature of his compositions. A review from We Live Entertainment described his music, performed by the Los Angeles Philharmonic at the Hollywood Bowl, as a blend of lush symphonic writing and minimalist influences that create lingering melodies.
Tickets for the Radio City Music Hall shows are currently available, with prices varying for each performance. The lowest priced tickets found at the time of publication were $87 including fees on SeatGeek for the August 12 performance. Other performances range from $88 to $130 including fees. A promotional code, NYPOST10, offers $10 off purchases over $250 for first-time SeatGeek users.
In addition to his upcoming residency, Hisaishi released "Symphony No. 3 (Metaphysica) & Harp Concerto" on July 24. The album features works described as jubilant, glorious, and cohesive, including "Symphony No. 3 'Metaphysica': I. existence" and a three-movement "Harp Concerto."
Hisaishi's residency is part of a broader trend of major artists touring. Other notable classical musicians and ensembles with upcoming tours include Yo-Yo Ma, The Music of John Williams, Gustavo Dudamel, Itzhak Perlman, and "Lord of the Rings" in concert.