[Orchestra] Introducing famous and popular pieces

Music of the CelestialsHisaishi Joe

The Tale of the Princess Kaguya: Celestial Beings’ Music (2018 ver.)

This is “Heavenly Beings’ Music” from The Tale of the Princess Kaguya.

The composer is Joe Hisaishi, well known for his music in Studio Ghibli works.

Hisaishi is one of the representative composers for Studio Ghibli, but interestingly, he usually scores only films directed by Hayao Miyazaki; when other directors are involved, different composers tend to take over.

The director of The Tale of the Princess Kaguya is Isao Takahata, making this a rare case where Hisaishi worked on a non-Miyazaki film.

Since Princess Mononoke, full orchestras have more frequently been used for in-film performances.

As Ghibli and Hisaishi’s popularity has grown, there have been more concerts as well, and it’s said that Hisaishi creates new arrangements for each concert.

It might be fun to compare the soundtrack versions with the concert versions.

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The Carnival of the Animals, No. 14: FinaleCamille Saint-Saëns

Saint-Saëns: The Carnival of the Animals, Suite: Finale [Naxos Classical Curation #Comical]

A dazzling, exhilarating piece that feels like the grand finale of a festival—that’s the closing movement of Camille Saint-Saëns’s suite The Carnival of the Animals.

Composed in 1886 for a private performance and first made public only after the composer’s death in 1922, the work builds from the piano’s brilliant opening trills as various instruments join in, with motifs of animals from earlier movements appearing one after another—truly the climax of the celebration.

The humorous tone pervades the whole piece, and the ending, capped with playful animal imitations, adds to its delightful charm.

It is also known for its use in Disney’s 1999 film Fantasia 2000, and it’s the kind of music that can sweep away the summer heat and leave you feeling refreshed.

Even those who don’t often listen to classical music are sure to discover its joy.

Symphony No. 1 “Jeremiah”Leonard Bernstein

Leonard Bernstein / Symphony No. 1 “Jeremiah” – II. Profanation (arr. F. Bencrisuto)

This piece was submitted to a composition competition during the composer’s obscure years and was rejected.

However, it finally received its premiere in 1944.

It consists of three movements and is a work in which he was conscious of his own Jewish heritage.

It begins with a heavy first movement, but as you listen, his personal plea comes through clearly to the ear.

Water Music: HornpipeGeorg Friedrich Händel

Handel Water Music Hornpipe

There is an orchestral suite by George Frideric Handel written to adorn a royal river outing, and one of its pieces combines a refreshing coolness with festive brilliance that suits summer perfectly.

At its premiere on the Thames in July 1717, it captivated audiences so much that King George I reportedly ordered multiple encores.

With trumpets and horns in lively motion, it lifts listeners into a bright, celebratory mood.

It’s also known for coloring a scene in the film Dead Poets Society.

For those seeking a brisk, invigorating moment on muggy days, or anyone who wants to enjoy the majestic yet light charm of Baroque music with ease, this piece is just the thing.

Waltz of the FlowersPyotr Tchaikovsky

P. I. Tchaikovsky — “Waltz of the Flowers” from The Nutcracker

The pleasant melody woven by the graceful waltz rhythm evokes a sense of unhurried time.

Its triple meter and the delicate harmonies of strings and woodwinds create an exquisite balance that boosts concentration without causing stress.

Premiered in Saint Petersburg in December 1892, the piece has been featured widely in various media since its use in Disney’s Fantasia and is well loved as a calming work.

It’s recommended for times when you want to focus in a quiet setting—studying, reading, or desk work.

Why not spend an intellectually enriching, relaxing time with this piece that showcases Tchaikovsky’s masterful compositional technique?

Symphony No. 5 “Revolution,” Fourth MovementDmitri Dmitriyevich Shostakovich

Shostakovich: Symphony No. 5 “Revolution,” Fourth Movement

A masterpiece that combines power and grandeur, this work dynamically conveys the appeal of Dmitri Shostakovich’s symphony.

The orchestra’s commanding performance instantly elevates the atmosphere of a gymnasium, creating excitement befitting a tense competition.

At its premiere in Leningrad in November 1937, Yevgeny Mravinsky and the Leningrad Philharmonic Orchestra achieved great success with their performance.

Featuring march-like phrases and a forceful rhythm, this piece is an ideal BGM to lift the spirits of all participants and lead them onto a grand stage.

Used for the main events of a sports day or for entrances and exits, it will foster a strong sense of unity throughout the venue.

Symphony No. 7 “Unfinished” in B minor, Movement I: Allegro moderatoFranz Schubert

Schubert Symphony No. 7 “Unfinished” in B minor, Movement I

Beginning with a mysterious low-string introduction, this masterpiece by Franz Schubert features a plaintive theme sung by oboe and clarinet that pierces the heart.

Composed starting in 1822 as a token of gratitude for an honorary diploma from the Graz Music Society, it has continued to captivate audiences with its profound emotion and distinctive structure.

Employing the uncommon key of B minor, its beautiful melodies, woven from exquisitely balanced orchestral sonorities, leave a deep impression on listeners.

It played a central role in the 1933 film “Unfinished Symphony” and has been used in the Japanese tokusatsu drama “Ultraman 80,” among other appearances, ensuring its allure lives on in many forms.

From quiet meditation to a grand climax, it is a recommended piece for music lovers who wish to savor a rich range of emotional expression.