Ghibli in the Park with Eltham Orchestras

Eltham Orchestras will present a live concert featuring music from Studio Ghibli films. Held in a park setting, the event encourages families and friends to gather, picnic, and connect in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

This concert celebrates the unforgettable music of Joe Hisaishi, the longtime musical collaborator of Hayao Miyazaki and the sound behind many beloved films from Studio Ghibli. Through this program, we explore many of Hisaishi’s most cherished themes; from Kiki's Delivery Service, Spirited Away, Howl's Moving Castle and many more.

Hisaishi’s music is known for its luminous melodies, emotional sincerity, and blending of classical, minimalist, and cinematic styles. His scores do more than accompany images, they give voice to inner feelings, wonder, nostalgia, courage, and transformation. Even without the screen, these works stand powerfully on their own, inviting listeners into vivid musical landscapes.

These works reveal Hisaishi’s extraordinary gift for storytelling through melody. Though written for film, they transcend their cinematic origins. The absence of dialogue or imagery allows us to focus purely on the sound and shaping of phrases, the rise and fall of dynamics, and the interplay between voices within the ensemble. The result is an intimate yet expansive musical experience.

This performance invites audiences to reconnect with the emotions these themes first awakened; wonder, courage, longing, and hope. Meanwhile discovering new nuances through live performance. Whether you grew up with these films or are hearing the music for the first time, this program celebrates the enduring magic of Hisaishi’s artistry.