[Emotional BGM] Carefully selected masterpieces and popular tracks recommended for work and study!

Whistle: Asuka’s ThemeŌshima Michiru

Fubue ~Asuka’s Theme~ | GARDEN WINDS | Oboe: Naoto Yamamoto / Piano: Takahiro Iwase

This piece is notable for its gentle, expansive oboe tone that evokes a sense of nostalgic scenery.

It was composed by Michiru Oshima, a composer from Nagasaki Prefecture.

Chosen as the opening theme for the NHK morning drama series Asuka, it brought a refreshing breeze into living rooms across the country.

The warm performance by world-renowned oboist Fumiaki Miyamoto is truly soothing.

Later included on the hit relaxing album image, it has remained beloved far beyond the drama itself.

Its calm melody is perfect for settling the mind and focusing on study or work, and it’s also recommended for a relaxing break.

A Fateful EncounterAndré Gagnon

André Gagnon “Comme au premier jour” (Movie) André Gagnon “Meguriai (A Chance Encounter)”

The piece is marked by a clear, transparent piano melody that feels as if it carries the crisp air of Canada.

This beautiful tune, performed by André Gagnon, was featured in the Fuji TV drama “Age, 35: Koishikute,” which began airing in April 1996, and it captured the hearts of many across Japan.

Originally included on albums such as “Impressions,” the work has transcended the realm of instrumental music—later even covered with lyrics by Hideki Saijo.

Its sound never overwhelms, yet gently fills the space, making it perfect as background music for tasks or study that require concentration.

When you need a quiet moment to breathe amid busy days, it softly calms a restless mind.

Merry Christmas, Mr. LawrenceSakamoto Ryuichi

Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence

The theme “Merry Christmas, Mr.

Lawrence” from the 1983 Japan–UK–Australia–New Zealand co-produced film Merry Christmas, Mr.

Lawrence is a masterpiece Japan is proud to share with the world and one of Ryuichi Sakamoto’s signature works, consistently ranking high in numerous charts.

With its simple yet emotionally resonant melody that continues to capture people’s hearts, the piece is also very popular among piano learners due to its playability and is frequently performed at piano recitals.

Its gentle, romantic melody soothes inner restlessness and can help improve concentration for work or study.

Code Blue (from “Code Blue: Doctor Heli Emergency Lifesaving”)Satō Naoki

From the drama “Code Blue -Doctor Heli Emergency Lifesaving-” — Code Blue ~the same spirit ORCHESTRA POSSIBLE

Naoki Sato’s composition “Code Blue” captivates listeners with its moving melody and gripping development.

Vividly portraying the behind-the-scenes world of the medical drama “Code Blue: Doctor Heli Emergency Lifesaving” through music, this piece adds color to tense workplaces and brings calm to the heart.

The harmony of piano and strings, and the layered sounds that create a grand sonic landscape, inspire a positive outlook.

When you feel stressed, burdened, or frustrated, lend an ear to the world of this piece.

Distant LightLibera

Light From Afar (2023)

Libera’s heartwarming song “Far Away” is like a gentle light pouring down while you work or study.

Since being chosen as the theme song for the 2004 NHK Saturday drama “Hyōheki” (The Ice Wall), it has been loved by many.

More than mere background music, this song softly envelops the listener’s heart.

Libera’s beautiful boy soprano—often described as angelic—brings calm and comfort even to stormy days.

Truly, it is a work that supports the hearts of those leading busy lives.

Danny BoyAirurando min’yō

Celtic Woman – Danny Boy

Danny Boy, with its melody that evokes the winds of Ireland, is a profoundly memorable ballad and a beloved jazz standard.

Written by Frederick Edward Weatherly, a British lawyer, its lyrics—depicting a parent’s love for a son departing for war—have moved the hearts of many.

While the words blend sorrow, longing, pain, and tenderness, the music itself carries a gentle, transparent softness.

Play it quietly in the background while you work, and you may find your restless mind soothed and your focus on study or work naturally enhanced.

For TomorrowSeizuka Shinya

Shinya Kiyozuka – For Tomorrow (TBS Friday drama “Kounodori” (2017) main theme)

Shinya Kiyozuka’s “For Tomorrow,” composed as the main theme for the 2017 drama series Kounodori Season 2, has a gentle resonance that’s soothing and becomes a quiet ally while you work.

Its moving sound seems to tenderly embrace the ups and downs of everyday life, and listening to it will likely make you feel positive—“If I can get through this hardship now, there will surely be something to gain!” Whether you’re a student or a working professional, try tackling today’s tasks while listening to this piece!