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Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Hisaishi Conducts Hisaishi
Apr 23-26, 2026
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.
Program
Hisaishi
Symphony No. 2
Hisaishi
Castle in the Sky for Solo Trumpet and Orchestra
Hisaishi
Spirited Away Suite
Hisaishi
My Neighbor Totoro [Encore]
Joe Hisaishi conductor and piano
Performers
Principal Trumpet
The Adolph Herseth Principal Trumpet Chair, endowed by an anonymous benefactor
Extras
Bring the Music Home
Step 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 at the Symphony Store preconcert and during intermission. 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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