RAG Music
Lovely music

[Standard] A compilation of popular songs recommended for award ceremonies [Classical / BGM]

An awards ceremony is a classic feature at sports tournaments and school field days.

That moment when the lively buzz suddenly quiets down and everyone in the venue focuses on the winner—it brings a touch of tension and a sense of excitement, doesn’t it?

This time, we’ve put together a selection of BGM tracks to liven up your awards ceremony.

We’ve picked a wide range: from staple classical pieces to film scores and video game music.

If you start with this playlist, you’ll never struggle to find music for your ceremony!

Be sure to bookmark it!

[Standard] A Compilation of Popular Songs Recommended for Award Ceremonies [Classical/BGM] (11–20)

Synchro Bom-Ba-Ye ~WATER BOYS~Satō Naoki

[Famous BGM Often Heard on TV] Synchro Bom-Ba-Ye ~WATER BOYS~
Synchro Bom-Ba-Ye ~WATER BOYS~Satō Naoki

This is the theme song from the 2001 Japanese film Waterboys.

Characterized by an energetic rhythm and refreshing melody, the piece conveys the enthusiasm and vitality of the high school boys.

It beautifully captures the world of the 2003 Fuji TV drama, embodying through music the youth and growth of the protagonists as they take on synchronized swimming.

The brass-forward arrangement is striking and evokes a breezy, summery feel.

Featured on the drama’s soundtrack album, it left a strong impression on viewers.

It’s a recommended track for those who want to feel friendship, hard work, and the passion of youth.

The music was composed by Naoki Sato, who has worked on many film scores.

Procession to Elsa’s CathedralRichard Wagner

Wagner (arr. Hiroshi Hoshina) Elsa’s Procession to the Cathedral from Lohengrin
Procession to Elsa’s CathedralRichard Wagner

Suffused with a solemn atmosphere, this work is a grand piece that depicts Elsa’s procession to the cathedral in the opera Lohengrin.

Beginning with a gentle woodwind melody and gradually gaining in strength, its structure leaves a deep impression on listeners.

Composed by Wagner in 1848, the piece, though part of an opera scene, enjoys great popularity as a standalone concert work.

It is often used in pivotal moments in films and dramas to evoke an air of majesty.

It’s a perfect choice to mark life’s important occasions, such as weddings and award ceremonies.

AidaJuzeppe Verudi

From the Triumphal March of the opera 'Aida'… Aida Fanfare
AidaJuzeppe Verudi

The dazzling piece that begins with a trumpet fanfare is “Triumphal March” from Aida.

Originally an opera in four acts, it portrays the tragic love of two lovers torn apart between Egypt and Ethiopia in ancient times, and it is one of the most popular works worldwide.

The “Triumphal March” is used in Act II, Scene 2, adding excitement to the entire opera.

In Japan, it’s well known as a soccer cheering song! The trumpet’s timbre also heightens the atmosphere at award ceremonies.

JupiterGusutāvu Horusuto

06 From the Suite (The Planets): Jupiter
JupiterGusutāvu Horusuto

If you’re looking to calm the atmosphere with a gentle piece after an intense competition, I recommend “Jupiter.” This piece is the fourth movement of The Planets, a suite composed by Gustav Holst.

Incidentally, the other movements are also named after planets, and Jupiter is said to carry the meaning “the bringer of jollity.” In Japan, however, Ayaka Hirahara’s song “Jupiter,” which is based on this piece, is actually more widely known.

Water MusicGeorg Friedrich Händel

Handel: Water Music – Alla Hornpipe, performed by a Baroque orchestra
Water MusicGeorg Friedrich Händel

This is a collection of Handel’s orchestral works known for their brilliant and elegant melodies.

Composed in 1717 for King George I of Great Britain, it was performed during a royal boating party on the River Thames.

Consisting of three suites, each centers on different instruments such as horns, trumpets, and flutes.

Structured in the French overture and dance forms, it brims with variety—from rhythmic, dynamic pieces to gentle, lyrical movements.

The work splendidly captures courtly elegance and a festive atmosphere, making it perfect for awards ceremonies and formal occasions.

It’s an ideal choice when you want to create a dazzling, celebratory mood.

majestic and dignifiedEdowādo Erugā

The masterpiece “Pomp and Circumstance” is a march composed by the British composer Edward Elgar.

In Japan, it appears in music textbooks, and various arranged versions have been used in commercials over the years.

I’m sure almost everyone has heard it at least once.

When using it for an awards ceremony, I recommend the middle section rather than the opening; it suits a solemn atmosphere very well.

It’s a perfect piece for those who have worked diligently with a spirit of self-improvement.

For a school awards ceremony, having the wind band perform it would be great, too!

[Classics] A Collection of Recommended Popular Songs for Award Ceremonies [Classical/BGM] (21–30)

Air on the G StringYohan Zebasuchian Bakkha

If you want to honor someone who has won with calm composure, “Air on the G String” is a great choice! This piece is an arrangement by a German violinist of the second movement from Bach’s Orchestral Suite No.

3 in D major, BWV 1068.

The “G string” in the title refers to one of the violin’s strings, and the piece can be played using only that string.

While the music has no dramatic swells, its gently flowing, tender melody warmly embraces the victor.

Use it at award ceremonies for cultural or academic competitions to create a composed, refined atmosphere!