Japan's Ghibli film composer Joe Hisaishi recognized for 3 Guinness records

Japanese composer Joe Hisaishi, renowned for his work on Studio Ghibli films, has been honored with three Guinness World Records this month. During a week-long residency at Radio City Music Hall in New York, Hisaishi set records for the longest consecutive performances by a classical composer, the highest-selling single run for classical music at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, and the most tickets sold by a classical composer during a tour at Tokyo Dome.

Reflecting on his journey, Hisaishi, 75, said he simply took things one step at a time. His concerts drew audiences worldwide, exceeding even those of classical musicians in Japan. At the Hollywood Bowl, Hisaishi's performances sold 45,538 tickets, while his Studio Ghibli Film Concert Tour at Tokyo Dome drew a total of 133,453 tickets.

For his residency in New York, Hisaishi conducted the MasterVoices choir and the Orchestra of St. Luke's, performing music from Miyazaki's films such as "Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind," "My Neighbor Totoro," "Princess Mononoke," and "Spirited Away." The audience's enthusiastic response, including cheers and thunderous applause, showcased the impact of Hisaishi's work. His daughter even sang "One Summer's Day" from "Spirited Away," eliciting a standing ovation.

Hisaishi, whose real name is Mamoru Fujisawa, started his career in contemporary music composition with an interest in minimalism. He adopted the stage name Joe Hisaishi, inspired by jazz artist Quincy Jones. His collaborations with Hayao Miyazaki began with "Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind" in 1984. Hisaishi expressed his commitment to delivering music to individuals, emphasizing the importance of connecting with each person through his compositions.