SYMPHONY NO. 3 & HARP CONCERTO / Joe Hisaishi | Deutsche Grammophon

On this album, internationally acclaimed Japanese composer and conductor Joe Hisaishi leads the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and celebrated harpist Emmanuel Ceysson in a major world-premiere recording that brings together two remarkable works: his Symphony No. 3 Metaphysica and a new Harp Concerto written especially for Ceysson.   

Drawing on decades of experience as a composer, Hisaishi reimagines the expressive possibilities of the harp in a virtuosic three-movement concerto. Far removed from conventional perceptions of the instrument, the work reveals a bold and dynamic voice that reflects Ceysson’s distinctive playing style. Moving between rhythmic intensity, moments of introspection and exhilarating, dance-like energy, the concerto culminates in a powerful and electrifying finale.   

The album also features Hisaishi’s Symphony No. 3 Metaphysica, commissioned for the 50th anniversary of the New Japan Philharmonic and premiered in 2021 under the composer’s baton. Conceived as an exploration of “sonic movement”, the symphony unfolds in three sections – existence, where are we going? and substance – each shaped by carefully structured rhythmic and harmonic processes that evolve into richly expressive musical landscapes.   

The album is relased digitally, on CD and on vinyl.