[Touching] Entrance/Exit Songs for Graduation Ceremonies: Classics & the Latest BGM

CanonJohann Pachelbel

Pachelbel – Canon in D-dur

Canon, a representative piece by the German composer Johann Pachelbel, is believed to have been composed around 1680.

It is one of the most beloved works of Baroque music and is performed at various ceremonies such as weddings and graduations.

Written for three violins and continuo, the piece is characterized by its repeating patterns.

The same melodic line is imitated by other parts entering later, creating rich harmonies and overlapping melodies.

Simply listening to it brings a sense of calm; using it as processional or recessional music at a graduation ceremony will gently envelop the entire venue in a peaceful atmosphere.

Before the cherry blossoms bloomkinoko teikoku

Kinoko Teikoku – Before the Cherry Blossoms Bloom

The song that adds a touch of color to graduates setting off with many memories and promises is “Before the Cherry Blossoms Bloom,” released by Kinoko Teikoku in 2015.

Its lyrics portray feelings and inner conflicts common among graduates—such as the loneliness of graduation and the anxiety they carry, yet the determination to look toward the future for their goals.

Whether during the processional or recessional, both the lyrics and the gentle melody are sure to resonate with graduates’ hearts.

While it stays close to them, it’s also a song that gives a firm push on the back at the end, sending them off.

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YELLikimonogakari

YELL – Ikimono-gakari (Full)

If you’re unsure what to pick, this is the one-song recommendation.

It’s one of Ikimonogakari’s signature tracks and was selected as the 2009 NHK National School Music Competition (Junior High Division) set piece.

Many people probably sang it in middle school.

Its mid-tempo BPM of 75 heightens the emotion of graduation, and vocalist Yoshioka’s powerful voice soars in the chorus! The lyrics, which say that “it’s a joyful thing when people part ways and walk their own paths,” really strike a chord with both those graduating and those seeing them off.

Adjust it so that the chorus lines up perfectly with the entrance and exit timing.

To the days without a nameyama

yama “To the Nameless Days” MV

yama’s “To the Nameless Days” is a song that etches itself in your heart, accompanying every moment of a graduation ceremony.

Crafted by Yuuki Nagumo, this piece enriches emotions without directly speaking of graduation or departure.

When you’re taking your first step toward a new path and a swirl of feelings rises within you, listening to “To the Nameless Days” will bring the scenes of your memories vividly back to life.

Used as BGM for a graduation video, it will stir emotions as a never-fading page of youth.

Its emotional, enveloping melody and vocals make it the perfect gift for students standing at the starting line of what comes next.

Cherry blossom seasonEXILE ATSUSHI

EXILE ATSUSHI / “Cherry Blossom Season” MV

EXILE ATSUSHI’s “Sakura no Kisetsu” is a song that, with its moving vocals, adds color to many graduation ceremonies.

It drew attention when it was selected as the compulsory piece for the 2014 81st NHK All-Japan School Choir Competition, and it also became widely loved through the music program Minna no Uta.

The lyrics, which evoke scenes of graduation, are especially memorable, and the warm, embracing melody moves not only the graduates but also the current students and faculty.

With the arrival of spring, ATSUSHI’s voice beautifully conveys both the bittersweetness and the hope of a new beginning.

I want to become a cherry blossom tree.AKB48

[MV full] Let's Become a Cherry Tree / AKB48 [Official]

AKB48’s 20th single, released with the catchphrase “I’ll be here forever.” The center was AKB’s unshakable ace, Atsuko Maeda.

It’s a heart-stirring song that’s almost always used for AKB graduation events; just hearing the intro can bring you to tears.

With lyrics like, “Even if you’re troubled and lose your way, the cherry tree will keep standing without changing its place,” it’s a life-affirming anthem that tugs at the hearts of listeners of any age.

It’s a perfect recommendation as entrance/exit background music for graduation ceremonies that will move even those who aren’t idol fans.

Be sure to also check out Yuki Kashiwagi’s acoustic version.

Jesu, Joy of Man’s DesiringJ.S.Bach

J S Bach Jesus bleibet meine Freude BWV 147 Ton Koopman 480p

A timeless masterpiece whose gentle, heaven-evokingly beautiful melody captures hearts and never lets go.

It is part of a cantata composed by Johann Sebastian Bach in 1723 and has been performed by various ensembles.

The violin solo and string ensemble versions are perfect as background music for graduation ceremonies celebrating new beginnings.

The work embodies faith in Christ and love for God, and its beautiful words and moving melody are what resonate so deeply with listeners.

At the very moment of celebrating children who have grown so admirably, the swell of the music will further heighten the moving atmosphere of the venue.