Studio Ghibli composer: ‘I wrote the Totoro theme in 20 minutes!’
Feb 12, 2026
Joe Hisaishi, the much-loved Japanese composer best known for his work on the Studio Ghibli films, sits down with Jonathan Ross, host of Classic FM at the Movies, to discuss his career in music – from his ultra-hummable themes for ‘My Neighbour Totoro’ and ‘Spirited Away’, to his full-scale symphonic works.
Filmed exclusively for Classic FM at Abbey Road Studios in London, during the extended West End run of ‘My Neighbour Totoro’.
0:13 Hisaishi's symphonic works
2:19 Minimalism
4:48 Composing film scores
6:44 Studio Ghibli
9:30 Retirement?
9:58 Joe Hisaishi's name
Video credits: Deutsche Grammophon, Studio Ghibli
© Classic FM
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