From classic choral pieces to popular J-pop! Moving songs you’ll want to sing at graduation ceremonies
Graduation ceremonies are special events where we take flight from the schools we’ve spent our days in.
Many schools sing songs related to graduation during the ceremony.
Still, you might find yourself thinking, “What kind of songs should we sing?” and struggle to come up with ideas.
In this article, we’ll introduce plenty of recommended songs for choral performance, chosen from classic and popular graduation songs.
We’ll feature not only the standard pieces but also recommendations from J-pop that work well for choir—feel free to use them as a reference!
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From classic choral pieces to popular J-Pop! Moving songs you’ll want to sing at graduation ceremonies (81–90)
BELIEVESugimoto Ryuichi
I imagine there are quite a lot of students who have sung this song before.
It’s a classic choice for graduation ceremonies.
It’s especially common at elementary and junior high school graduations, and I think many students have heard older students sing it.
The lyrics, filled with hope for the future, are moving and perfectly suited for a graduation ceremony that marks a new beginning.
Also, the chorus sections include harmony parts, so be sure to practice well and let a beautiful harmony resonate!
Let’s search for TomorrowLyrics by Hori Tōru · Music by Ōsawa Tetsunori
“Let’s search for Tomorrow” has become a staple choral piece, as well as a classic song for graduation ceremonies.
It’s a bit unusual for a choral song to have English in the title or lyrics, isn’t it? The title, which literally means “Let’s go search for tomorrow!”, is very positive.
It’s surely the kind of choral piece that will resonate with those who feel anxious about graduating and stepping into a new world, lifting their spirits and leaving them feeling refreshed.
Its simple lyrics will surely give you a gentle push forward.
Song of FledgingSakushi Murano Shirō, Sakkyoku Iwakawa Saburō
“Song of Departure” is a classic choral piece with the theme of graduation.
The school we went to every day was truly a nest of learning.
It’s sad to fly out from there and move on to a new path, but this song gives us the resolve to take a step forward with hope.
The lyrics, which carry the word “farewell” to teachers and friends, are also deeply moving.
TOMORROWMayo Okamoto
Although it was released in 2005, this song is among the most popular J-pop graduation songs—so much so that it could be considered a hall-of-famer.
The lyrics, which liken each graduating student to a flower, are deeply positive and have a powerful, heart-stirring impact.
Beyond the words themselves, the composition is exceptionally beautiful and has actually been performed as a choral piece at many graduation ceremonies.
It’s a classic that moves listeners with its meaningful message and the beauty of its harmonies.
secret base ~What You Gave Me~ZONE
It was released in 2006 as Janne Da Arc’s 25th single.
The song was used as the theme for the film “HIRAKATA,” in which the members appear and which is based on their alma mater, and it has become one of Janne Da Arc’s signature tracks, second only to “Gekkouka.” Although it’s a rock band’s song, the lyrics are very moving, and it is supported as a song sung at graduation ceremonies.
My friend — from here on out, forever…Ketsumeishi
When it comes to songs you want to listen to during graduation season, you can’t leave out tracks that sing about friendship! They let you look back on memories with friends you’ve spent so much time with, and share your gratitude and your “let’s keep in touch from here on out” feelings.
The perfect friendship song for graduation season is this track by Ketsumeishi.
It speaks to staying friends forever, and the message of “I’ll be there to support you when times are tough” is incredibly reassuring.
If you listen to this song before graduation, it’s sure to bring back all your memories and emotions—and probably move you to tears!
From classic choral pieces to popular J-POP! Moving songs you’ll want to sing at graduation ceremonies (91–100)
Let’s soar into tomorrowLyricist: Takao Matsui ・ Composer: Takao Matsui
Beloved as a classic graduation song, this piece carries a warm message that speaks to students’ hearts.
Written and composed by Takao Matsui, it offers encouragement to those graduating and sings of hope for the future.
Released in 1992, the song has been widely performed at school events and choral competitions, becoming a timeless favorite that resonates with many.
It’s not only perfect for graduation ceremonies but also recommended for anyone embarking on a new chapter in life.
Its memorable, beautiful melody and uplifting, forward-looking message are sure to give you a gentle push onward.