Advertisement
Experience music from Studio Ghibli and more with the San Gabriel Valley Symphony. The program opens with the U.S. premiere of Variations on a Raindrop by Chinese New Zealand composer Simon J. Li. Through delicate phrasing and lyrical transparency, the work captures the meditative stillness and quiet awe of falling rain. Next, the orchestra presents a symphonic variation on “Merry-Go-Round” and “Cave of Mind” from Howl’s Moving Castle, a sweeping reimagination of two of Joe Hisaishi’s most iconic themes. The world premiere of Echoes of a Journey’s End by Korean American composer William Jae follows. Deeply introspective and cinematic, the work reflects on personal transformation and the emotional weight of memory. The first half concludes with the complete Symphonic Suite from Kiki’s Delivery Service, tracing the emotional arc of Kiki’s coming of age through vibrant orchestration and thematic storytelling.
The second half begins with George Gershwin’s Piano Concerto in F, performed by Ayane Nakajima. A cornerstone of American music, the concerto fuses classical structure with jazz harmony and rhythmic drive, channeling the energy of 1920s New York. Following the concerto, Ayane Nakajima exits the stage to welcome special guest artist Eunike Tanzil, who performs her original work Pink Sakura. This tender and expressive piece is the second single from Tanzil’s upcoming debut album The First of Everything, to be released on Deutsche Grammophon. Reflecting on formative life experiences, the piece embodies her signature blend of orchestral minimalism and cinematic storytelling. Ayane Nakjima returns to the stage with Spirited Away Suite, transporting audiences into the magical and otherworldly soundscape of one of Studio Ghibli’s most beloved films. The evening concludes with My Neighbor Totoro, celebrating childlike wonder, innocence, and the enduring joy of imagination.
This concert reflects the San Gabriel Valley Symphony’s mission to elevate underrepresented voices and expand the boundaries of what an orchestra can be, featuring works by AAPI composers alongside iconic film music and American classics.
Advertisement
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
San Gabriel Mission Playhouse, 330 S Santa Anita Ave, San Gabriel, CA 91776, United States
Tickets
