Studio Ghibli Music Explained by a Jazz Pianist
TLDRA jazz pianist explores the music of Studio Ghibli composed by Joe Hisaishi. The video delves into unique chord progressions like a four-to-five-to-one substitution instead of the traditional two-five-one, highlighting how these variations create interesting musical textures. The pianist also discusses the beauty of simple string writing that allows natural resonance and the effective use of deceptive cadences. The composer Joe Hisaishi's background and influence are mentioned, showcasing his significant contributions to Japanese film music. The analysis highlights the balance of simplicity and complexity in Hisaishi's work, making it both accessible and intriguing.
Takeaways
- 🎵 The video explores the music of Joe Hisaishi, a renowned composer for Studio Ghibli films.
- 🎵 The composer often uses unique chord progressions, such as substituting a four chord for a two chord in a ii-V-I progression.
- 🎵 The music features beautiful string writing that emphasizes simple harmonies to allow natural resonance and harmonic overtones.
- 🎵 Joe Hisaishi's stage name is inspired by Quincy Jones, and he has won the Japanese Academy Award for Best Music eight times.
- 🎵 The script highlights interesting harmonic devices like deceptive cadences and the use of suspended chords.
- 🎵 The composer's music is noted for its simplicity in execution, which can sometimes mask its complexity.
- 🎵 The analysis includes examples of chord progressions in different keys, such as C minor/E-flat major and D-flat major.
- 🎵 The script mentions the effective use of bass lines that move consistently to guide chord progressions.
- 🎵 The music often features unexpected harmonic twists that keep the listener engaged without being jarring.
- 🎵 The video encourages viewers to subscribe and like the content, and invites suggestions for further analysis of specific tracks.
Q & A
Who is Joe Hisaishi and what is his significance in the world of Studio Ghibli?
-Joe Hisaishi is a renowned Japanese composer who has written music for a dozen Studio Ghibli films. He is highly regarded in Japan, having won the Japanese Academy Award for Best Music eight times. His music is integral to many of the top-grossing Japanese films of all time.
What is a 'two five one' progression in jazz and how does it relate to the music discussed in the transcript?
-A 'two five one' progression is a common chord progression in jazz that typically consists of a ii chord moving to a V chord and then resolving to a I chord. In the transcript, the speaker discusses a variation of this progression where the progression starts on the IV chord instead of the ii chord, creating a unique harmonic movement.
Why is the use of the IV chord instead of the ii chord in a progression noteworthy?
-Using the IV chord instead of the ii chord in a progression is noteworthy because it creates a different harmonic feel and tension. It provides an alternative way to approach the V-I resolution, adding variety and interest to the music.
What is the significance of the string writing mentioned in the transcript?
-The string writing is significant because it demonstrates the effectiveness of simple harmonies in allowing strings to naturally resonate with harmonic overtones. This results in a rich, beautiful sound without overwhelming the natural resonance of the strings.
How does Joe Hisaishi's stage name relate to Quincy Jones?
-Joe Hisaishi's stage name is inspired by Quincy Jones. Hisaishi is more or less the Japanese translation of 'Quincy,' and he chose this stage name to honor Quincy Jones, whom he admires.
What is a 'deceptive cadence' and how is it used in the music discussed?
-A deceptive cadence is a harmonic progression where the music seems to be leading to a resolution but then unexpectedly goes in a different direction. In the transcript, the speaker mentions a deceptive cadence where the music leads the ear to expect a certain resolution but instead turns and goes elsewhere, creating an interesting and unexpected effect.
What is the purpose of using a repeating section with slight variations in composition?
-Using a repeating section with slight variations helps to guide the listener's ear by providing familiarity while also adding interest through the changes. It is an effective tool to create a memorable and engaging musical experience without simply repeating the same material.
Why is it important to consider the range and timbre of different instruments when composing?
-Considering the range and timbre of different instruments is important because certain instruments sound better in specific registers. For example, complex harmonies might work well on the piano in certain ranges but not in others. Strings, in particular, often function best with simpler harmonies to allow for natural resonance and the emergence of harmonic overtones.
What is the role of the bass line in the chord progression discussed in the transcript?
-The bass line plays a crucial role in guiding the harmonic movement. In the transcript, the speaker mentions a bass line that consistently moves in a singular direction, creating a sense of motion and direction in the chord progression. This technique helps to paint a clear musical picture and enhances the overall flow of the piece.
What is the significance of the key of D flat major in the music discussed?
-The key of D flat major is significant because it serves as the home base for the harmonic structure of the piece. The music revolves around this key, using various chord progressions and harmonic devices to create movement and interest within this tonal center.
How does the use of a suspended chord (sus chord) contribute to the music?
-A suspended chord contributes to the music by creating a sense of tension and unresolved harmony. In the transcript, the speaker mentions a sus chord that leaves the music in a suspended state before resolving or transitioning to another chord. This adds an element of anticipation and interest to the piece.
Outlines
🎵 Introduction to Joe Hisaishi's Music and Jazz Theory
The speaker introduces the video by expressing excitement about exploring music by composer Joe Hisaishi. They discuss jazz theory, specifically focusing on the 'two-five-one' chord progression and its variations. The speaker explains how a substitution using the four chord instead of the two chord can create an interesting harmonic effect. They also touch on the importance of simplicity in string writing, emphasizing that fewer notes can allow strings to resonate more naturally, producing beautiful harmonic overtones. The speaker encourages viewers to subscribe and like the video.
🎵 Analysis of Harmonies and Joe Hisaishi's Background
The speaker analyzes a musical piece, discussing the effective use of simple harmonies in string sections to allow natural resonance and avoid cluttering the sound. They mention that the music is by Joe Hisaishi, a renowned composer known for his work on Studio Ghibli films. Hisaishi's stage name is inspired by Quincy Jones, and he has won multiple Japanese Academy Awards for his compositions. The speaker further analyzes a chord progression in C minor/E-flat major, highlighting a deceptive cadence and the use of suspended chords to create a beautiful harmonic motion.
🎵 Exploring Chord Progressions and Harmonic Movement
The speaker delves into another musical example, identifying it as a bridge section that alternates between B-flat minor 7 and C minor 7 chords. They discuss the harmonic structure, noting the use of a B-flat dominant chord and a G sus chord to lead back to the main section. The speaker also highlights the entry of percussion with a cymbal crash, adding to the beauty of the piece. They analyze another section in D-flat major, focusing on the use of a 'two-five' progression to introduce new chords and the effectiveness of a descending bass line in guiding the harmonic movement.
🎵 Final Thoughts and Appreciation for Joe Hisaishi's Work
The speaker expresses admiration for the complexity and beauty of Joe Hisaishi's music, noting how some parts are simple yet executed perfectly, while others feel simple but are actually quite intricate. They encourage viewers to leave recommendations in the comments and express interest in making a more detailed video breakdown of a specific track. The speaker concludes by thanking viewers for watching and promising more content in future videos.
Mindmap
Keywords
💡Joe Hisaishi
💡Two Five One
💡Chord Progression
💡String Writing
💡Deceptive Cadence
💡Voice Leading
💡Studio Ghibli
💡Minor Key
💡Suspended Chord
💡Bass Line
Highlights
Introduction to Joe Hisaishi's music for Studio Ghibli films.
Explanation of a unique chord progression using a four-five-one instead of a traditional two-five-one.
Discussion on the use of minor four chords as a substitution for half-diminished chords in minor keys.
Analysis of how slight variations in chord progressions can create interesting musical sections.
Insight into effective string writing, emphasizing simplicity to allow natural resonance.
Interesting use of deceptive cadences to lead the ear in unexpected directions.
Joe Hisaishi's background and his inspiration from Quincy Jones.
Analysis of a turnaround progression in C minor/E flat major.
Discussion on the use of sus chords and their effect on harmonic movement.
Exploration of a bridge section with a recurring pattern of B flat minor 7 and C minor 7 chords.
Beautiful chord sequence with a descending bass line.
Effective use of voice leading to create smooth harmonic transitions.
Comparison of simple and complex musical elements in Joe Hisaishi's compositions.
Invitation for viewers to suggest further analysis of specific tracks.
Encouragement to subscribe and like the video for more content.