A Concert Celebrating Akira Ifukube and His Godzilla Film Music - THE MAESTRO AND THE MONSTER

Join us for a special concert commemorating the 20th anniversary of the passing of renowned Japanese composer Akira Ifukube (1914–2006), whose music has left an enduring mark on both the concert stage and the world of cinema.

The program explores the wide-ranging musical world of Ifukube, beginning with several of his concert works, including music for voice and piano and his powerful Ritmica Ostinata for Piano and Orchestra (Piano II, Orchestra reduction). The second half celebrates his iconic film music, featuring music from the legendary Godzilla films and other cinematic works.

From the concert hall to the silver screen, this program offers a unique opportunity to experience the remarkable artistry, energy, and imagination of Akira Ifukube.

Date: November 21st, 2026 at 3:30pm (Door open at 3pm)

Nichols Concert Hall

1490 Chicago Avenue

Evanston, IL 60201 USA

PROGRAM

Ancient Folk Songs of the Gilyak Tribes (1946)

Ritmica Ostinata per Pianoforte ed Orchestra (1961)

Piano II – Orchestra Reduction

Excerpts from Symphonic Fantasia Nos. 2 & 3

Arranged for Two Pianos by Satoshi Imai

Terror of Mechagodzilla

Arranged for Two Pianos by John DeSentis

Mothra

Arranged by John DeSentis

Symphonic Fantasia No. 1

Arranged for Two Pianos by Motoji Yssimal

FEATURING MUSIC FROM THE GODZILLA FILM SERIES

Reiko Yamada & Patrick Godon / Meghan Guse

Pianists Vocalist

SPECIAL CONTRIBUTORS

MASTER OF CEREMONIES:

ERIK HOMENICK, PhD [Author of SCORING GODZILLA]

MUSIC ARRANGEMENTS:

JOHN DEAENTIS / MOTOJI YSSIMAL / SATOSHI IMAI

FLYER DESIGN:

KYLE GILMORE

With our sincere appreciation to all of our special contributors

for their generous support of this concert.