The Ottawa Pops Orchestra Presents: Ghibli Symphony: Part II
Live featuring a full symphonic orchestra, Melody of Japan Singers, and Japanese-Canadian soprano Noriko Hashimoto
Ottawa, ON – February 5, 2026 – The Ottawa Pops Orchestra returns to the world of Studio Ghibli with Ghibli Symphony: Part II, presented February 20 to 22 at the Carleton Dominion-Chalmers Centre. With very limited availability remaining for Friday and Saturday performances, the orchestra has added a fourth performance on Sunday, February 22 at 4:30 pm, now on sale due to audience demand.
“At the Ottawa Pops Orchestra, we believe music can help us see ourselves more clearly,” says Artistic and Executive Director Mathieu Roy. “Ghibli Symphony was conceived as a series from the start, knowing we would want to keep returning to this music. Part II allows us to explore these scores with greater depth, reflecting stories of coming of age and of finding hope and wonder in the face of life’s challenges.”
The program is conducted by Lucas Waldin, a versatile conductor whose work spans symphonic and popular music across North America. Ghibli Symphony: Part II marks Waldin’s debut with the Ottawa Pops Orchestra.
“These soundtracks contain some of the most colourful and moving film music ever written,” says Waldin. “My Neighbour Totoro suite includes narration that brings the story to life in a powerful way. For the Saturday evening performance, the narration will be presented in Japanese, while narration for all other performances will be in English. It is a joy to share this experience with audiences who know these films so deeply.”
Japanese-Canadian soprano Noriko Hashimoto, Music Director of the Melody of Japan Singers, shares her personal connection to the music. The concert also highlights the participation of the Melody of Japan Singers, as part of the Ottawa Pops Orchestra’s ongoing collaboration with Ottawa’s Japanese community.
“I have loved Ghibli films since my student days in Japan. Since moving abroad, Joe Hisaishi’s music resonates with me even more deeply. It carries the landscapes, the culture, and the esprit of Japan,” says Hashimoto. “I am grateful to the Ottawa Pops Orchestra for this opportunity, and I look forward to becoming Granmamare, one of the beloved characters from Ponyo.”
Choral preparation is led by Deirdre Kellerman, with the Melody of Japan Singers playing a central role in the performance.
“This program is a beautiful meeting point between the orchestra, voices, and our community,” says Kellerman. “The Melody of Japan Singers bring a unique warmth and authenticity to this music, and we are ready to raise our voice in the theme from My Neighbour Totoro.”
This concert offers something for everyone, whether you're a seasoned concertgoer or attending a live orchestra performance for the very first time. You are encouraged to come as you are, ready to immerse yourself in the music. Make an evening of it; the intermission bar will be open one hour before and after the performance. All are encouraged to pre-purchase their drink ticket online to skip the line!
Showtimes
Friday, February 20, 2026 – 7:30 PM (very limited availability)
Saturday, February 21, 2026 – 2:00 PM (very limited availability)
Saturday, February 21, 2026 – 7:00 PM (very limited availability)
Sunday, February 22, 2026 – 4:30 PM (newly added performance)
All performances take place at the Carleton Dominion-Chalmers Centre, 355 Cooper Street, Ottawa, ON
Tickets for Ghibli Symphony: Part II are available exclusively through the Ottawa Pops Orchestra website and Eventbrite. Audiences are encouraged to secure their tickets early to avoid disappointment, as availability may be limited or unavailable at the door.
Media Information
Members of the media are invited to attend the dress rehearsal on Thursday, February 19, from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM at the Carleton Dominion-Chalmers Centre to capture photos or video.
Mathieu Roy, Lucas Waldin, Noriko Hashimoto, and musicians of the orchestra are available for phone or in-person interviews. The orchestra is proud to include three musicians of Japanese descent among its members. A small ensemble can also be made available for on-air performance upon request.
About the Ottawa Pops Orchestra
The Ottawa Pops Orchestra is dedicated to bringing diverse and engaging musical experiences to audiences in the Ottawa area and beyond. With a focus on innovation and accessibility, the orchestra strives to redefine the concert experience and inspire a new generation of music enthusiasts.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Mathieu Roy
Artistic and Executive Director, Ottawa Pops Orchestra
mathieu.roy@ottawapopsorchestra.ca | 613-793-3998
Evan Simcoe
Associate Communications Officer, Ottawa Pops Orchestra
evan.simcoe@ottawapopsorchestra.ca | 343-543-8899
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