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

Jesu, Joy of Man’s DesiringJ.S.Bach

Bach: Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring

Even if you’re not interested in classical music, you’ve probably seen the portrait of Johann Sebastian Bach that was displayed in school music rooms at least once.

He was not only a composer active in 18th-century Germany, but is also credited with laying the foundations of Western music, and in Japan he is revered as the “father of music.” Here, I’d like to introduce the chorale “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring,” the concluding movement from the church cantata Herz und Mund und Tat und Leben (BWV 147), which is believed to have been composed by Bach in 1723.

Its melody is extremely famous, so most people will likely feel they’ve heard it before.

It’s a popular piece whose phrases are quoted not only in classical music but across a wide range of genres, including rock and pop.

With its romantic and brilliant atmosphere, it’s highly recommended as a processional piece to be played or heard at graduation ceremonies!

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Piano Concerto No. 5 “Emperor” Movement II: AdagioLudwig van Beethoven

Beethoven – Piano Concerto No.5 Emperor 2nd Mov.

The second movement of Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No.

5 “Emperor” is a gem in which profound emotion resides within serenity.

Between the heroic first movement and the dynamic finale, time seems to drift gently as if in a dream.

The soft strains of the strings, the delicate dialogue of the woodwinds, and the piano’s singing melodic lines tenderly envelop the listener’s heart.

Played during a diploma-conferral scene or as a recessional, it will fill the moment with hope for a new journey and gratitude for the days gone by.

CanonJohann Pachelbel

Pachelbel Canon

Famous classical music often blends into our daily lives without us even noticing, and Johann Pachelbel’s Canon in D, by the German composer and organist, is one of the most popular pieces of all.

The harmonic progression at the core of this work—often referred to as the “canon chord progression”—is widely used in pop music and is instantly recognizable by ear.

The well-known “Canon” is actually the first half of the entire composition; as a musical form, it’s paired with a Gigue, making a set, and the precise title is “Canon and Gigue in D major for three violins and basso continuo.” It’s mysterious that, despite its fame, so little is known about the circumstances of its composition.

With a melody so beautiful and gentle it could move one to tears just by listening, the Canon is a staple at graduation ceremonies, and using it for diploma presentations or as a recessional will surely heighten the sense of occasion.

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Farewell SongFrederic Chopin

Chopin – Farewell Etude

Among the many solo piano works by the Polish composer Frédéric Chopin, this piece stands out as a masterpiece whose exquisitely beautiful melody shines with timeless brilliance.

Its richly expressive, sweet main theme is said to have prompted Chopin himself to remark, “I will never find such a beautiful melody again.” Known by the nickname “Farewell Song,” it is often played or played back at graduation ceremonies as a send-off piece.

Interestingly, this nickname is not a direct translation of the official title; it spread after serving as the main theme in the 1934 German film “Abschiedswalzer” (released in Japan as “Farewell Song”).

The actual title is Étude Op.

10, No.

3, and abroad it is affectionately called “Tristesse,” meaning sadness or melancholy—an intriguing difference in interpretation.

In any case, when you perform it at a graduation ceremony, be sure to pour your feelings into it, including the dramatic development in the middle section!

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ariosoJ.S.Bach

J.S.Bach – Arioso from Cantata BWV 156 – Adagio

A gentle, long-breathed melody that quietly seeps into the heart.

Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach, its singing solo line is so beautiful that, in later generations, it came to be cherished on its own as an “aria-like instrumental piece.” The melodies voiced by oboe and strings transcend words, softly stirring feelings of prayer and comfort.

A staple at weddings and memorials, this work is also perfect for diploma presentations and exit scenes at graduation ceremonies.

Its walking-paced tempo and understated yet resolute emotion quietly bless a new beginning.

Song of BeginningsGReeeeN

GReeeeN – Song of Beginnings

A song by GReeeeN characterized by warm, compassionate lyrics and a refreshing melody.

As an anthem cheering on those taking a new step, it has resonated with many.

While cherishing past memories, it carries a positive message about moving toward the future, gently giving listeners a supportive push.

It was also featured as Able’s 2016 spring commercial song, becoming a source of comfort for people starting new lives.

Recommended for those standing at a new stage in life—such as graduations, school entrance ceremonies, or starting a job.

Listening to this song may turn your anxieties into hope.

cherry blossomKobukuro

Sakura

The famous ballad “Sakura,” sung by the duo Kobukuro with their overwhelming vocal power, is a classic at graduation ceremonies.

As graduation approaches, some of you may feel both excitement and anxiety.

At times like that, please give this song a listen.

You’re sure to hear a message of encouragement from Kobukuro!

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Murakami Shinpei

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