Forest of Piano, known in Japan as Piano no Mori: The Perfect World of Kai, is a manga series written and illustrated by Makoto Isshiki that was serialised in Weekly Morning. Season two of the anime adaptation is set to begin airing on January 27.

Scenes from the first episode of season two have been officially released ahead of its air date January 27.

Four albums have also been announced for the new season compiling songs performed by each of the main characters Kai Ichinose, Shūhei Amamiya and Wei Pang. They will also include classic piano tracks from season two.

Season two will begin airing on Netflix in Japan on January 27.

Speaking about the new season Soma Saito, who voices Kai Ichinose, commented: “Before season one aired I received calls from numerous people saying they were looking forward to the adaptation as it’s a series loved by many people. The light production and piano scenes were characteristic of the series but I really liked the parts where light particles flew through the air when the piano was played. It gets through to the listener. It was a magical visual performance. Being able to ‘see the sounds’ was truly something wonderful. Season two focuses on the Chopin Competition, so I believe it is even psychologically deeper. I would be happy if people take in the gorgeous performances and visuals and the human drama that unfolds through various elements and the performance we have put on with everything we’ve got.”

Natsuki Hanae, who voices Shūhei Amamiya, also commented: “Season one ended with me wondering how Shūhei will recover and if he will find his own piano. He has an attachment to Kai and his own internal fight. It ended on a cliffhanger for me. [The series] becoming an anime and having visuals paired with the music helps better convey what the characters are feeling. I’ve intuitively come to understand my emotions. Season one made me realise once more what a great series Forest of Piano is. It’s the same for season two. I hope everyone that watches will understand Shūhei’s feelings. During the audition we recorded a scene that made me feel like he’s a character that matches who I am, so I will work hard towards it while looking forward to the season.”