I Relived Studio Ghibli Classics In 4K — But In Real Life Symphony Edition

Japan's Studio Ghibli is one of the world's most influential animation studios. It has, over the last 30 years, enchanted audiences, locally and abroad, with its fantastical characters and heartfelt storylines that take place in different worlds, but ultimately, teach us what it means to be human.

The concert featured Gerard Salonga and in case you find this name familiar, he was also the conductor who conducted Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone In Concert back in July.

Safe to say that I teared up during Howl's Moving Castle, Princess Mononoke, and Spirited Away.

The orchestra captured the mix of cultures in Ghibli's stories amazingly. The western-style tunes of Howl's Moving Castle and Kiki's Delivery Service felt so different from the Japanese folklore vibes of Princess Mononoke and Spirited Away.

This really reminded me of how universal Ghibli's stories are.

The music was so clear and vibrant, it felt like being inside the movies. Every note pulled me deeper into the world of Ghibli. Whether you're a lifelong fan or just discovering Ghibli, the concert's energy was unforgettable.

First Half

• Howl's Moving Castle: Merry-Go-Round of Life, Cave of Mind
• Princess Mononoke: Princess Mononoke, Ending: Legend of Ashitaka
• Kiki's Delivery Service: Highlights like On a Clear Day and Mother's Broom

Second Half

• Castle in the Sky: Main Theme
• Spirited Away: Songs like One Summer's Day and No Face
• Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind: Requiem
• My Neighbor Totoro: Stroll, Ending

Everyone loved it when Stroll from My Neighbor Totoro was performed. The whole room was filled with the most radiant energy, it was as if we had all turned into kids again. Ending the concert with My Neighbor Totoro was the perfect choice as it left us with so much uplifting joy and nostalgia.

I went as Kiki from Kiki's Delivery Service and was so happy to spot more in the audience. The conductor even managed to spot a few No Face(s) from Spirited Away.

All of us went crazy when we saw how one of the performers came out after the break in their No Face outfit, making it three of them. The creativity in the hall passed the vibe check.

The concert celebrated Studio Ghibli's legacy, and the orchestra made Joe Hisaishi's music shine. I left with a full heart and the melodies still playing in my head.

This was my second pleasant experience with the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra and would highly recommend everyone to try this at least once as it is also an experience for all ages.

I will look forward to more of their performances, especially if they decide to pick up Arcane from Riot Games!

For information on upcoming performances, visit MPO's website or follow them on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on their latest shows and concerts!