For 2nd Grade Elementary School Students: Must-Play Pieces for Piano Recitals! Recommended Masterpieces & Famous Songs

Carrying YouHisaishi Joe

Carrying You - 'Castle in the Sky' (Laputa) - Piano

Composer Joe Hisaishi has been responsible for the music in Studio Ghibli works for many years.

“Carrying You” is known as the theme song for the 1986 film Castle in the Sky.

It’s an indispensable piece for the film’s climax and is closely tied to its romantic themes.

Since sheet music in various arrangements has been published, it would be nice to choose a version suited to your child’s level.

Expressing the pursuit of dreams, this piece is sure to resonate deeply with children.

Detective Conan Main ThemeŌno Katsuo

Detective Conan Main Theme (Piano) Beginner Level with Solfège

Katsuo Ohno is a composer famous for the Main Theme of Detective Conan.

Born in 1941, he began his career as a member of a rock band and later went on to work on music for films and TV dramas.

This piece is characterized by its mysterious, tension-filled mood and cool melody, with a foundation in jazz and rock.

Its driving melody and heavy rhythms brilliantly enhance the deduction scenes and action in the anime.

It still sounds plenty cool at a slower tempo, so please try playing it at a speed that’s comfortable for children.

It’s sure to be a hit at a recital!

My Neighbor TotoroHisaishi Joe

My Neighbor Totoro (Easy Piano Sheet Music)

A classic from a Studio Ghibli film composed by Joe Hisaishi, one of the foremost composers of contemporary Japan.

Known for his music in Hayao Miyazaki’s films, this is one of his signature works.

It is the ending theme of the 1988 film My Neighbor Totoro, with lyrics by director Hayao Miyazaki.

Its simple, friendly melody perfectly matches the world of the film, set in rural Japan of the late 1950s.

The lyrics depict encounters with a mysterious natural world and mystical creatures, inspiring children’s pure hearts and imaginations.

With its warm atmosphere and beautiful melody, it’s an ideal piece for a second grader’s piano recital—heartwarming music that both the performer and the audience can enjoy.

Why not give this charming piece a try?

On the Bridge of Avignonfuransu min’yō

[Piano Dream 5] 8 On the Bridge of Avignon / Both Hands · Right Hand · Left Hand

A French folk song that symbolizes France’s rich culture.

Believed to have originated around the 15th century, this piece is based on the Saint-Bénézet Bridge in Avignon, southern France.

It features a bright, lively rhythm, with lyrics that depict the movements of various people dancing on the bridge.

In reality, however, it seems the dancing took place on the riverbank because the bridge was too narrow.

It’s best to play the left-hand accompaniment as lightly as possible to convey the sense of dancing and fun.

With its short and simple style, it’s perfect for children who have just started learning piano.

Performed at a piano recital, it’s sure to fill the venue with a cheerful, joyful atmosphere.

Cute AugustineDoitsu min’yō

“Cute Augustine” German Song (Piano Solo) Dreaming Pianist Children’s Piano Masterpieces 2

This folk song, born in 17th-century Vienna, has a bright and lively melody despite the tragic backdrop of the plague.

Modeled on the supposedly real musician Marx Augustin, it humorously portrays a protagonist who has lost everything to the plague.

Its memorable triple meter and lyrics that symbolize people’s strength in accepting tragedy are likely why it has been loved for so many years.

Today, it is widely embraced as a children’s song and used as a teaching material in music education.

It’s a piece that combines history and charm—perfect for a second-grade recital.

Heaven and HellJacques Offenbach

[Beginner-friendly Easy Piano (with Do-Re-Mi)] Orpheus in the Underworld “Can Can” Easy Piano Tutorial

A masterpiece operetta by 19th-century French composer Jacques Offenbach.

Premiered in Paris in October 1858, it has remained beloved around the world ever since.

Based on ancient Greek mythology, its appeal lies in a distinctive interpretation infused with satire and humor.

In Japan, it’s familiar as a staple tune at school sports days.

Start at a slow tempo, and as you get the hang of it, gradually speed up.

Even those not accustomed to classical music can enjoy this highly entertaining piece—why not try performing it at your next recital?

SumireStreabbog

Violet (Composed by Streabbog) Pianist: Kanako Ishihara [Piano Solo]: La violette (L. Streabbog, Jean-Louis Gobbaerts) Kanako Ishihara

“Violet,” composed by Streabbog, a composer born in 1835 who left more than 1,200 piano pieces, is a recital staple beloved by many piano learners for its soothing melody.

Characterized by an elegant, memorable tune and a soft, gentle waltz rhythm, this piece allows students to enjoyably develop fundamental piano technique while deepening musical expression.

While it’s easy to focus on the melody, playing the left hand lightly is essential to achieve a charming atmosphere.

Practice each hand carefully, ensuring the left-hand accompaniment can be played accurately.