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"Merry-Go-Round of Life" is a beautiful and iconic piece of music composed by Joe Hisaishi for the Studio Ghibli film "Howl's Moving Castle," directed by Hayao Miyazaki. Here are some interesting facts about Joe Hisaishi and the song:

1. Pseudonym: Joe Hisaishi is the pseudonym of Mamoru Fujisawa, a highly respected Japanese composer and musical director. He adopted this stage name early in his career, taking inspiration from the famous Italian composer Giuseppe Verdi.

2. Prolific Collaboration: Joe Hisaishi is renowned for his long-term collaboration with Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli. He has composed the music for many of their films, including "Spirited Away," "My Neighbor Totoro," and "Princess Mononoke," in addition to "Howl's Moving Castle."

3. Multiple Versions: "Merry-Go-Round of Life" is a versatile piece of music that appears in various forms throughout the film. It serves as both a love theme and a motif for the magical and whimsical elements of the story.

4. Worldwide Recognition: Joe Hisaishi's work on the soundtrack for "Howl's Moving Castle" helped introduce his music to a global audience. The film received critical acclaim internationally, and the soundtrack played a significant role in its success.

5. Live Performances: Joe Hisaishi often performs his compositions in live concerts around the world. His concerts feature orchestras, choirs, and sometimes even the composer himself playing the piano. "Merry-Go-Round of Life" is a fan-favorite and is frequently performed at these events.

6. Influence on Contemporary Music: Joe Hisaishi's music, including "Merry-Go-Round of Life," has had a significant influence on contemporary Japanese music. His compositions blend classical and modern elements, creating a unique sound that has inspired many musicians.

7. Award-Winning Composer: Hisaishi's talent has been recognized with numerous awards and honors throughout his career. He has received several Japanese Academy Awards for Best Music Score for his work on Studio Ghibli films.

8. International Appeal: Despite being composed for a Japanese animated film, "Merry-Go-Round of Life" has a universal appeal that transcends language barriers. Its emotive and enchanting melody has resonated with audiences from around the world.

9. Emotional Impact: The song is known for its ability to evoke strong emotions in listeners. Its dreamy and nostalgic qualities make it a perfect fit for the magical and heartfelt moments in "Howl's Moving Castle."

10. Sheet Music Availability: Due to its popularity, sheet music for "Merry-Go-Round of Life" is widely available, allowing musicians of various skill levels to play this enchanting piece on the piano or other instruments.

"Merry-Go-Round of Life" remains a cherished piece of music, not only within the world of Studio Ghibli but also in the broader musical landscape. Joe Hisaishi's talent for crafting emotionally resonant melodies has made this composition a timeless favorite among fans of his work.