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

Once-in-a-lifetime encountertenpyō

Ichigo-Ichie – Tempei Nakamura / Once-in-a-lifetime Encounter – Tempei

This is a piano solo piece distinguished by a delicate, beautiful melody that gently nestles close to the heart.

It is included on pianist Tempei’s major-label debut album TEMPEIZM, released in June 2008, during his travels around the world.

This work is imbued with memories and encounters with his mentor and close friends.

Originally written for a wedding, it resonates with warm tones that cherish those irreplaceable moments spent with someone special.

Within its brief runtime, it tightly condenses a dramatic arc and deep emotion, making your heart swell every time you listen.

It’s perfect for when you want to pause your studies or work for a moment and calm your mind.

How about refreshing yourself while soaking in a quiet sense of inspiration?

KEEP A DISTANCEObara Takashi

KEEP A DISTANCE

This instrumental piece layers the shakuhachi’s characteristic gentle breathiness with the piano’s crystal-clear tones, intertwining as if in dialogue.

The exquisite sense of space, in which each instrument seems to respect the other’s voice, brings a quiet solace to the listener.

Composed by Takashi Obara to celebrate shakuhachi player Michiyama Fujiwara’s 20th debut anniversary, the work delicately conveys the warmth of staying connected even while apart—a theme especially resonant in a time when social distance was called for.

Its calm, beautiful melodies don’t disrupt your thoughts, making it an ideal companion for study sessions that require concentration or desk work you wish to approach with a peaceful mind.

Hymn of Ten Thousand PraisesHakasé Tarō

Ban Sanka (Hymn of Myriad Praises)

Beginning like a quiet prayer and gradually expanding into a magnificent blessing, this piece is a moving number.

Known for the story that Taro Hakase gifted it when his son was born, it has been cherished by fans as a centerpiece of the album “SONGS,” released in July 2007.

Rather than relying on flashy beats, its long, gentle violin lines wrap you in warmth, making it perfect for moments when you want to calm your mind and focus on work or study.

It’s a work that warmly colors the small moments of everyday life, so do give it a listen when you’re feeling tired and need a soothing breather.

Night Birdsshakatak

Night Birds (Toshiki Kadomatsu version)

A British band that shot to fame with this song, a massive hit in the ’80s.

In an era when jazz fusion was at its peak—and improv-heavy fusion often tended to be complex—the piece was crafted with clear, accessible melodies to make it more approachable.

Its brisk rhythm also makes it a very pleasant listen.

Sultans Of SwingDire Straits

Dire Straits – Sultans Of Swing

The title track from Dire Straits’ debut album.

Released in 1978.

Mark Knopfler’s languid, laid-back vocals are memorable.

This kind of medium tempo gives a rhythm to your work and helps you get things done.

It’s a classic, but it won’t distract you from your tasks.

ManiacMichael Sembello

Michael Sembello – Maniac

This was the second single released from the soundtrack of the 1983 film Flashdance, and it followed the first single, Flashdance… What a Feeling, to reach No.

1 in the U.S.

The tempo and arrangement are cute—it feels like it could help you work more briskly.

Chariots Of FireVangelis

Vangelis – Chariots Of Fire

This is an instrumental number released by the Greek synthesizer player Vangelis for the 1981 film Chariots of Fire.

Despite being an instrumental, it reached No.

1 in the United States and won the Academy Award for Best Original Score in 1982.

It’s often used in sports programs and athlete features, so many of you have probably heard it at least once! Don’t you feel that, as you listen, you’re filled with the courage to overcome your current struggles, no matter how tough they are?