Inspiring young people to love Classical music
by Scott
In the last few decades, there have been many Japanese anime (animation TV series or movies) based on Classical music, telling stories of young students and the challenges and friendships that music can bring. When Clare and I watch these series, we are often amazed at the amount of care and detail that is put into the music, the realistic situations, and the animation itself. They use high-quality recordings of well-known pieces, and the animation of fingers on keys or strings is surprisingly accurate and matching the motions of an actual performer. Also, the plots are frequently relatable to us, having gone through childhood music competitions, friendships with other music students, music during university life, and even international competitions!
We became connected to the anime piano (or anipiano for short) community on YouTube a little over a year ago after we posted some anime arrangements on YouTube, and found these young people’s energy, enthusiasm for music, and support for each other very inspiring! And amidst talk of Classical music fading away, it’s really encouraging to see young people so involved in the discussion of music, and making their own arrangements or improvising (something that even conservatory-trained musicians have zero experience in!).
Our video this week is the ending credits song from Your Lie in April, which tells the story of a friendship and romance between two middle school students, one a pianist and the other a violinist. Besides the great music, and a lot of scenes of stage performances of beautiful classics, the story was moving and entertaining.
Another series, Nodame Cantabile, features university music student life, full orchestra and concerto performances (all animated), travel, and theme songs that combine pop with Rachmaninov’s 2nd Concerto, Ravel’s Bolero, and Bach’s Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring. The series Forest of Piano shows the musical progression of two young boys, from beginners all the way up to competing at the International Chopin Competition in Warsaw!
Here are a few images from some of the series we watched:
