RAG MusicSchool Festival
Wonderful school festival / cultural festival

A collection of cheerful choral pieces—songs you’ll want to perform at choir competitions and school events.

When everyone is singing a choral piece together, it can sometimes take a while to decide which song to choose, right?

Even if you have a vague idea like “I want something with this kind of vibe,” it can be hard to think of a song that fits.

So in this article, I’ll introduce some recommended choral pieces for those who are thinking, “I want to sing something with a bright feel, but nothing comes to mind.”

All of these songs have an upbeat tone and are fun both to listen to and to sing, so please use them as a reference when choosing your repertoire.

A collection of cheerful choral pieces: songs you’ll want to perform at choir competitions and events (1–10)

I should be able to fly (in the sky).supittsu

It was featured in the Fuji TV drama “Hakusen Nagashi” and became a major hit.

This classic song has been covered by many artists and is well-suited for three-part mixed chorus.

With its warm, comforting choral sound, it’s a piece where each singer can convey their feelings by singing to someone dear to them.

I want to become the wind.THE BOOM

Set to a samba rhythm, this classic sings of freedom and joy.

Released by THE BOOM in 1995, it uses simple words to convey the importance of everyday happiness and encounters with loved ones.

The lively sound woven by diverse percussion enhances the joy of singing together.

The unique fervor generated by the large chorus and samba rhythm makes listeners feel the pulse of life.

It’s easy to incorporate as a choral piece for school events or a dance at sports festivals, making it a perfect song for moments when you want to share a bright, uplifting feeling.

Oh Happy DayEdowin Hōkinzu Shingāzu

It’s one of the well-known gospel songs.

After it was used in the musical film “Sister Act 2,” it became popular as a choral piece.

It has been arranged by various composers, and it’s a bright, fun song with beautiful harmonies.

If you can sing it well, it’s sure to get everyone excited.

A collection of cheerful choral pieces: songs you’ll want to perform at choir competitions and school events (11–20)

Mela!Ryokushokushakai

"Mela!" (Ryokuoushoku Shakai) Osaka University Mixed Chorus Freund Chor 64th Regular Concert (2021)
Mela!Ryokushokushakai

“Mela!” is a powerful track by the four-member co-ed band Ryokuoushoku Shakai (Green Yellow Society).

In July 2022, it became the band’s first song to surpass 200 million streams.

Given how explosively its popularity spread, many people have probably heard it at least once.

Choosing such a well-known song for a choir piece should make it easier for everyone to practice.

Also, the recurring “la-la-la” sections throughout the song are ideal for creating harmonies and arranging mixed male-female vocals.

Be sure to come up with a one-of-a-kind, wonderful arrangement!

ultramarineYOASOBI

Gunjou / YOASOBI (A cappella cover.)
ultramarineYOASOBI

If you don’t want your song choice to overlap with others, set your class apart with a recent track.

Among them, YOASOBI’s “Gunjō,” released in 2020, is highly recommended.

In the latter part of the original song, there’s a chorus in a choral style performed by members of Plusonica, the unit that vocalist ikura belongs to.

On the YouTube channel THE FIRST TAKE, where YOASOBI appeared in February 2021, they actually performed “Gunjō” accompanied by a choir.

Its pop sound and driving rhythm offer an appeal you won’t find in conventional choral pieces, so give it a try!

Family of the EarthSakushi: Ishihara Kazuki / Sakkyoku: Ota Sakurako

A choral piece where a grand message and delicate timbres resonate together.

Set to a melody that is gentle yet powerful, it tenderly portrays the bond between people and nature.

Published by Pana Musica in March 2012, this work has since become a staple performed at school choir competitions and cultural festivals.

In an era of growing awareness of environmental issues and peace, it’s a wonderful song that lets singers feel the preciousness of life as their voices unite.

By not only singing but also taking time to reflect together on the lyrics, the choir can achieve even greater depth.

rainbowMoriyama Naotaro

Lyrics by Naotaro Moriyama and Kazu Okachimachi, composed by Takafumi Nobunaga / Niji (Rainbow) lyrics N. Moriyama, K. Okachimachi, composition T. Nobunaga / Niji
rainbowMoriyama Naotaro

This heartwarming song by Naotaro Moriyama sings of opposing emotions—encounters and farewells, joy and sorrow—through a melody that is gentle yet powerful.

Even when people share the same moment, each person feels something different; this duality of life is expressed with delicate words.

Released in 2006 as the set piece for the NHK National School Music Competition (Junior High School Division), its universal message has kept it beloved and widely sung in many schools to this day.

It’s a song that resonates during moments of sharing precious time with friends, such as at graduation ceremonies and school festivals—one you’ll definitely want to perform as a choir.