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

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.

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.

It’s okaywacci

wacci “Daijoubu” Music Video

It’s one of wacci’s signature songs, created as an anthem to cheer on those who keep trying! Chosen as the theme song for TBS’s Thursday Drama Theater “37.5°C no Namida,” the track features a warm melody and delicate vocals.

It gently stands by the anxieties and loneliness felt in everyday life, with lyrics that softly encourage you by saying, “You’re fine just as you are,” enough to bring tears to your eyes.

Released in August 2015, it has earned strong support from many fans, with its music video surpassing 3 million views on YouTube.

If you play it as the entrance or exit music at a graduation ceremony, it will surely light a spark of courage and hope in the hearts of graduates as they step onto a new path!

FriendKetsumeishi

Ketsumeishi “Tomodachi”

This is Ketsumeishi’s fourth single, released in 2002, a classic that broke into the top 10 on the Oricon Singles Chart and boosted their popularity.

The theme is, plainly, “parting with friends.” A warm, comforting track, carefully delivered rap, and deeply moving lyrics come together to make graduation ceremonies even more touching.

It’s a song you’ll want to gift to a dear friend you’re parting ways with, as a message of support.

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hiyori

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one’s true feelingssumika

sumika / Honne [Music Video] *Theme song for the 99th All Japan High School Soccer Championship

This is a heartwarming cheer song by sumika that sings about the bonds between companions chasing their dreams.

Set to a classic ballad woven with piano and strings, the lyrics resonate by urging us to face forward especially in tough times.

Released in January 2021 as the support song for the 99th All Japan High School Soccer Tournament, it was created during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the deepening bonds among the members are said to be reflected in the music.

It’s perfect for those diving into a new environment or striving toward dreams with their friends.

This is a song that gives you the courage to support one another and keep moving forward.

Sky-blue DaysSHISHAMO

SHISHAMO “Sky-Blue Days”

“I don’t want to graduate yet!” SHISHAMO’s 2018 track Mizuiro no Hibi honestly captures the true feelings of graduates who feel that way.

The melody is bright and poppy, but the lyrics are filled with the emotion of how lonely it feels to graduate.

While looking back on various memories with friends—down to the smallest things—the song depicts the anxiety of having to walk toward the future on your own.

Even so, as time moves only forward, it portrays savoring those final moments.

It’s the kind of song you’d want playing as you reflect on countless memories during the ceremony, then, at the very end as you walk out, lift your head and face the future.

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SAKI

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threadSuda Masaki × Ishizaki Hyui

Ito – Masaki Suda × Huwie Ishizaki

It’s a timeless masterpiece that seeps into everyone’s heart and deserves to be sung for generations.

This is a collaboration between popular actor Masaki Suda and singer-songwriter Huwie Ishizaki, released in 2020.

The original song is by Miyuki Nakajima, and this is a cover version.

It’s a moving ballad that likens oneself and a loved one to interwoven threads, and it’s also popular as wedding background music.

Of course it’s perfect for graduation ceremonies, too.

Suda’s straightforward vocals are deeply moving.

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Araki Jakkan

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