[For Beginners] Recommended Ghibli Masterpieces You’ll Want to Play on the Piano
Studio Ghibli has produced numerous animated films that represent Japan.
Alongside their moving stories, many unforgettable songs have been born.
Not only the theme and insert songs, but also the background music that plays throughout the films is memorable, and many people may find themselves recalling the music together with iconic scenes—and perhaps wanting to try playing it on the piano at least once.
Many pieces from Studio Ghibli’s works are perfectly suited to the piano.
In this article, we introduce Ghibli pieces recommended for piano beginners.
Start your piano journey with your favorite song!
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[For Beginners] Recommended Ghibli Masterpieces to Play on Piano (31–40)
Ask me why (A Mother’s Thoughts)Hisaishi Joe
This is the theme song from Studio Ghibli’s feature-length animated film The Boy and the Heron, which can be called the culmination of director Hayao Miyazaki’s work.
It is performed tenderly on a solo piano only three times during important scenes, from the opening to the late stages of the film, with no arrangements or variations for other instruments, making it clear how deeply composer Joe Hisaishi cherishes this piece.
If you listen closely, one note in the chorus melody differs from Ask Me Why (Mahito’s Resolve).
Just as Mahito returns with the stone and retains his memories of the experience, he has indeed changed from before to now.
It feels like a deliberate, meaningful misalignment.
The characters’ emotions are conveyed through live performance, as if opening the door to the heart.
I stopped being alone.Yano Akiko
The theme from “My Neighbors the Yamadas” is performed here in a lovely piano arrangement.
I’ve previously introduced an orchestral version, but when this gentle depiction of everyday life is rendered on piano, it becomes even more immersive, like being drawn into a world of memories.
Everyday life is something everyone has, and it’s unique to each person—not measured by anyone else’s standards.
Yet when the everyday life that must have been mine is shown as images, a quiet feeling of “this is somehow nice” arises.
This piano version touches many people’s heartstrings and will surely brighten the listeners’ everyday lives.
Marco and Gina’s ThemeHisaishi Joe
Composed by Joe Hisaishi, this piece is known as an insert song from Porco Rosso.
It features a gentle, lyrical melody, with piano and orchestra softly resonating to create an elegant and sentimental atmosphere.
Symbolizing the complex relationship between the protagonist, Marco, and his childhood friend, Gina, the piece evokes emotions that call to mind mature romance and memories of the past.
Since its 1992 release, it has continued to be loved by many and is also popular as wedding background music.
It’s a recommended piece for beginner pianists as well.
Why not let its warm, tender tones soothe you?
Ponyo on the CliffŌhashi Nozomi / Fujioka Fujimaki / Hisaishi Jō
The theme song from the film “Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea,” with lyrics that adorably capture Ponyo’s boundless energy! The left hand moves stepwise and is easy to learn, and although the right hand has some leaps, the rhythm isn’t very complex, making it easy to transition to playing with both hands.
If you clearly contrast the smooth phrases with the bouncy ones, you can better capture the feel of the original.
It’s a very popular song among children, so if you have little kids or grandchildren, be sure to master it and play it for them!
Memory of LifeNikaidou Kazumi
The theme song for Studio Ghibli’s film The Tale of the Princess Kaguya, created by Kazumi Nikaido, is a beautiful piece that celebrates the sanctity of life and the subtlety of human relationships.
Released in July 2013, the song was reportedly commissioned by director Isao Takahata, who deeply connected with Nikaido’s musical sensibilities.
Her uniquely gentle yet powerful voice lends profound resonance to the film’s central theme of “life.” While honoring the world of Ghibli, this work, depicted from Nikaido’s distinctive perspective, possesses a charm that sets it apart from other Ghibli songs.
Why not add a piece like this to your piano repertoire?
[For Beginners] Recommended Ghibli Masterpieces to Play on the Piano (41–50)
Teru’s SongTeshima Aoi / Taniyama Hiroko
The theme song from the film Tales from Earthsea, which begins with Aoi Teshima’s a cappella part.
Many listeners were surely captivated by the sheer beauty of her opening voice.
Built on a simple, repeating melody, it’s easy to memorize and a great piece for beginners to tackle.
Once you can play the melodic line beautifully and smoothly, you could say the piece is practically complete! After you’ve firmly mastered the right hand, start adding the left-hand bass notes.
Summer of Goodbye ~From Up on Poppy Hill~Teshima Aoi / Sakata Koichi / Marimura Yukiko
This song is a cover of Ryoko Moriyama’s 1976 release “The Summer of Farewells,” and is also known as the theme song for the film “From Up on Poppy Hill.” Many people likely remember Aoi Teshima’s heartrending and delicate vocals.
Since the original features piano accompaniment, it’s easy to imagine playing it on the piano, making it approachable even for beginners.
As you play, keep the beautiful melodic line in mind, build up the chorus, and add chords with the left hand to give it more depth—try these touches to bring your performance closer to the feel of the original.
In conclusion
I’ve introduced some Studio Ghibli pieces that I recommend for piano beginners.
The joy of playing Ghibli music on the piano is truly special.
With simplified arrangements, even beginners can more easily fulfill their wish to try playing these songs.
One of the great things about Ghibli works is how they let you relive movie scenes through music.
Why not try weaving that same emotion from your own fingertips, accompanied by the sound of the piano? Start with a song tied to a cherished memory and gradually expand your repertoire—you’ll surely discover a new way to enjoy music.