One Summer's Day (from Spirited Away)

🎻 Today’s Violin Repertoire: Joe Hisaishi – One Summer’s Day (from Spirited Away)

Hello, dear subscribers!

This week, we’re stepping into the dreamlike world of Studio Ghibli with One Summer’s Day, composed by the inimitable Joe Hisaishi for Spirited Away (2001). 🌿

Originally scored for piano and orchestra, this piece captures the quiet magic of a summer memory—full of wonder, stillness, and emotional depth. Now, beautifully arranged for violin, it becomes even more intimate, almost like a whisper from childhood.

Whether you’re a longtime Ghibli fan or new to this haunting melody, this is a piece that speaks directly to the heart.

🌬 A Breath of Summer, A World Between Worlds

The opening notes float like mist. There’s a simplicity to the melody—almost childlike—but with every phrase, it deepens. You can feel Chihiro’s transformation mirrored in the music: from confusion to courage, from fear to grace.

Unlike many film scores that aim for grandeur, One Summer’s Day is all about subtlety. It doesn’t shout—it invites you in.

As a violinist, your task is to honor that hush. Let your bow glide gently, and give each note space to breathe.

🎐 Finding Your Inner Ghibli Spirit

Let yourself play with a sense of nostalgia. Maybe imagine a warm breeze through tall grass, or a quiet walk home at twilight. That’s the essence of this piece—not perfection, but presence.

📩 Sheet Music & Performance Video Access

You’ll find the full arrangement of One Summer’s Day for violin (with piano accompaniment) at the bottom of this newsletter—exclusively for subscribers.

📺 Two video performances are included:

• One at a meditative, slow tempo

• One closer to the original pacing from the film

These will help you build emotional pacing and bow control, step by step.

🎁 Remember, these resources are for our community only.

✨ Music That Lingers Like a Dream

Joe Hisaishi’s music reminds us that beauty often lives in the quietest moments.

So take your time with this piece. Let it sink in. Let it bloom.

And above all—enjoy the magic of playing something that feels like a memory made sound.

Warmly,
SeMi

📩 Download Your Free Sheet Music and Performance Video HERE ↓↓↓