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Hisaishi Conducts Hisaishi

Apr 23-26, 2026
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Joe Hisaishi

Overview

Dubbed “the John Williams of Japan” by Pitchfork, Joe Hisaishi is one of the most celebrated composers of our time. He is especially known for his acclaimed symphonic works as well as film scores — including Princess Mononoke, Ponyo and My Neighbor Totoro. Hisaishi returns to conduct the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in a suite from Hayao Miyazaki’s film Spirited Away, plus his Second Symphony and Castle in the Sky, featuring CSO Principal Trumpet Esteban Batallán.

Schedule
Program
Hisaishi 

Symphony No. 2

Hisaishi

Castle in the Sky for Solo Trumpet and Orchestra

Hisaishi 

Spirited Away Suite

Performers
Conductor and Piano
Principal Trumpet
The Adolph Herseth Principal Trumpet Chair, endowed by an anonymous benefactor

Extras

Bring the Music Home

Hisaishi: A Symphonic CelebrationStep into the enchanting sound world of Joe Hisaishi with recordings spanning his entire creative output — from intimate works for solo piano and chamber ensembles to sweeping orchestral scores from Studio Ghibli films. Select albums on CD and vinyl will be for sale in the Orchestra Hall outer lobby before, during and after each performance. Available while supplies last.


Preconcert Dining

Explore Symphony Center’s on-site dining options for a seamless preconcert experience. Preorder a Sound Bites meal to enjoy in the Rotunda before the concert — or make a reservation to dine at the Thomas Club, offering a prix fixe menu featuring traditional American fare and a spectacular view of Lake Michigan. View menus and learn more »

Listen

Sponsors & Partners

These concerts are generously sponsored by Ling Z. and Michael C. Markovitz.


Discover more on Experience CSO
Famous for his film scores, composer-pianist-conductor Joe Hisaishi also excels in the concert hall, for which he has written numerous works for orchestra, chorus and chamber ensembles during the last three decades.
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When Principal Trumpet Esteban Batallán makes his solo debut with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra at Symphony Center this week, it will be the culmination of a lifelong dream.
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American fans of Japanese composer-conductor-pianist Joe Hisaishi have much to savor this season, with a new disc, movie score and U.S. tour all available.
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