Michio Mamiya, renowned Studio Ghibli composer, dies at 95; world learns of his demise during 2025 Annie Awards

Michio Mamiya dies at 95

In a somber turn of events, the passing of Michio Mamiya, the composer behind one of Studio Ghibli's most heartbreaking films, Grave of the Fireflies, is now being reported worldwide.

The celebrated Japanese composer passed away on December 11, 2024, at the age of 95, due to pneumonia.

The global audience only learned of the heartbreaking news after it was revealed during the 2025 Annie Awards on Saturday, February 8, 2025.

Mamiya’s haunting score for the 1988 film, which deeply resonated with audiences for its emotional depth, solidified his place in cinematic history. His music, which perfectly complemented the film’s poignant narrative, continues to be remembered as one of his most significant contributions to the world of film scoring. Mamiya's death marks the end of an era for fans of Ghibli and lovers of his unforgettable compositions.

According to Anime News Network, his family held a vigil on December 17 and a funeral on December 18 to honor his memory.

Although the Japanese newspaper The Asahi Shimbun reported the news in December 2024, the global audience only discovered the heartbreaking headline after the 2025 Annie Awards, held on Saturday, February 8, 2025. During the annual ceremony’s In Memoriam segment, Mamiya was among several other legendary figures from the Japanese anime industry who were honored.

The highly accomplished composer was born in Hokkaido and nurtured his musical talents at the Tokyo Music School, now known as Tokyo University of the Arts. There, he studied under the guidance of renowned classical composer Tomojiro Ikenouchi. Mamiya’s time at the prestigious institution played a crucial role in shaping his distinct musical style, which would later become integral to some of Japan's most celebrated films, including Grave of the Fireflies. His deep understanding of both classical and contemporary music helped him craft scores that captured emotional complexity, leaving a lasting impact on the anime industry.

The late classical musician's impressive career includes founding the composer group Yagi no Kai with Yuzo Toyama and Hikaru Hayashi. Their piece, Composition for Chorus No. 1, earned the prestigious Mainichi Music Award in 1958. Additionally, Mamiya’s 1974 opera was awarded the grand prize at the Salzburg Opera Festival, further cementing his reputation as a remarkable composer.