[2026] Tearjerker Songs That Bring the House Down at School Culture Festivals

intersectionatarayo

Atarayo – Intersection (Music Video)

“Kousaten (Intersection)” is a 2022 track by Atarayo that sings of a powerful longing for someone you can no longer meet.

The grief of losing someone dear is so painful it defies words.

The song vividly portrays helpless sorrow, struggle, and that agonizing inner turmoil that has nowhere to go.

As part of a band set, try pouring your soul into it when you want to dramatically change the mood on stage.

There are sections the audience can sing along to as well, so get the whole venue involved and sing it together!

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SAKI

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Best FriendKiroro

Kiroro ｢Best Friend｣ Official Music Video

Kiroro’s signature song celebrates the depth of friendship and the feeling of gratitude.

Released in June 2001, the track was also used as the ending theme for the Japanese version of the Disney/Pixar film “The Good Dinosaur.” Tamashiro’s warm vocals and Kinjo’s gentle piano tones create a melody that resonates deeply.

The lyrics, expressing thanks to friends who stay by your side in times of uncertainty, have struck a chord with many and are often performed at milestones such as graduation ceremonies and weddings.

Sing it with friends at a school or cultural festival, and it’s sure to become an unforgettable memory.

It’s the perfect song for conveying your appreciation to someone special.

Philosophy[Alexandros]

[Alexandros] – Philosophy (MV)

The annual collaboration project with artists targeting the 18-year-old generation, “18-sai (Festival).” The song “Philosophy” by [Alexandros], which was the theme song in 2019, means “philosophy” in Japanese.

It’s a track that really resonates with people at this age, packed tightly with unbending beliefs and those hazy emotions of being caught between adulthood and childhood—feelings that neither side fully understands.

Wouldn’t it be perfect for a school festival?

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utatane

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Letter — Dear you at fifteenAnjura Aki

Angela Aki “Letter ~Dear You, Fifteen~” Official Music Video (HD)

A number by Angela Aki written on the theme of a message to her 15-year-old self.

Released in September 2008, the song was created as the set piece for the NHK All-Japan School Chorus Contest (junior high division) and was also broadcast on “Minna no Uta.” Set to a piano-centered melody, the lyrics—where one’s future self and past self encourage each other—resonate deeply.

This piece is perfect for choral performances and solo piano-and-vocal renditions at school or cultural festivals.

Its lyrics, which evoke the value of friendship and youth, are sure to capture listeners’ hearts.

It’s often used at graduation ceremonies and commemorative events, and singing it together will surely create moving memories.

On the day of departure…Kawashima Ai

Ai Kawashima / On the Day of Departure (Lyrics)

Singer-songwriter Ai Kawashima’s signature song “Tabidachi no Hi ni…” This track was released as a single in 2006 and has long been loved as a classic graduation song.

It’s a moving piece that will surely stir the hearts of third-year students for whom this year’s school festival will be their last.

It reminds us that the ordinary moments of everyday life are truly precious—helping us rediscover their value.

Listen to it while thinking of your friends, and you’ll surely feel inspired to treasure every moment that lies ahead.

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utatane

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futureKobukuro

Kobukuro “Mirai” film “orange” version

A heartwarming ballad dedicated to those who live life with all their might.

This gem of a song layers gentle compassion for others with wishes for the future.

Released in December 2015, it was written as the theme song for the film “orange” and was later used as a tie-in track for the anime series as well.

With Kobukuro’s signature powerful harmonies and a melody line that resonates deeply, this piece leaves a lasting impression.

Performed on a school festival stage, it will tenderly color the bonds with dear friends and the memories of student days.

On this day of goodbyeaimyon

Aimyon – On the Day of Goodbye [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

Aimyon is an artist whose name naturally comes up among the younger generation.

She’s hugely popular with both men and women across age groups, and every new song she releases keeps becoming a hit.

Her lyrics often strike straight at the heart and make you think—they’re like a catalyst.

That’s a big part of her appeal for many people.

This song, too, never says exactly what “it” is, yet it offers hints and gently stays close to the worries and problems everyone carries in some way.

It’s a track that can move you to tears.

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utatane

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