“Merry-Go-Round of Life” is a famous piece composed by “Joe Hisaishi” for the 2004 Studio Ghibli film 《Howl’s Moving Castle》, directed by “Hayao Miyazaki”. It is one of Hisaishi’s most iconic works and serves as the main theme of the movie.
The music captures the magical and emotional essence of the story, blending whimsy, romance, and melancholy. Its melody reflects the journey of the characters—especially the evolving relationship between “Sophie”, a young woman cursed by a witch, and “Howl”, a mysterious wizard. The piece is built around a repeating, circular piano motif (like a merry-go-round), symbolizing life’s cycles and the intertwining of fate.
Hisaishi combines classical orchestration with modern sensibilities, using sweeping strings, delicate piano, and woodwinds to create a dreamlike atmosphere. The music shifts between playful, dramatic, and tender tones, mirroring the film’s themes of love, war, and self-discovery.
Over time, “Merry-Go-Round of Life” has become a beloved standalone piece, performed worldwide in concerts and covered by musicians across genres. Its timeless quality continues to enchant listeners, embodying Studio Ghibli’s signature blend of fantasy and humanity.
In short, it’s a musical masterpiece that tells a story of life’s beauty, chaos, and endless motion—just like a merry-go-round.
Watch Alan Wu and Alice Li perform The Merry-Go-Round of Life by Joe Hisaishi on the piano for the 2025 Spring Music Competition as part of the Charleston International Music Competition.