[Choral Songs] Recommended for High School Students! A Comprehensive Showcase from Classics to the Newest J‑Pop

Wandering peopleSakushi: Ishikura Kozaburou, Sakkyoku: Roberuto Shūman

[Choral Piece] The Wandering People / Mixed Chorus in Four Parts [With Lyrics]

The German art song “The Gypsy Life” (“Zigeunerleben”).

It was composed in 1840 by Robert Schumann, a leading figure of the Romantic era.

Although it seems to be sung less frequently in recent years, it has long been familiar as a choral piece in junior high school competitions.

The brisk, galloping tempo contrasted with the more relaxed melody creates a pleasing ebb and flow.

It would be nice to sing it while delving into the lyrics by Kozaburo Ishikura, considered a masterful translation.

Scored for mixed chorus in four parts, it is quite challenging, but singing it is sure to lift your spirits.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

KEI

Report a problem

dogwood (flowering dogwood)Hitoto Yo

2015 Tokunoshima Chorus Festival – Tokunoshima High School Music Club, Yo Hitoto “Hanamizuki”

Yo Hitoto’s “Hanamizuki” is a classic beloved as a choral piece at schools across Japan.

The original track even features choir-style backing vocals, and in the latter half the chorus is sung a cappella.

The song was also used in episode 7 of the 2015 drama “Omotesando Koukou Gasshoubu!” which focuses on a high school choir.

When Yo Hitoto appeared on TBS’s 2018 program “Ongaku no Hi,” she took the stage with 62 high school students from Taiwan and Japan to perform a choral rendition.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hamada Takuya

Report a problem

Tomorrow’s notesMatsushita Kou

N-Con 2024 High School Division Required Piece “Tomorrow’s Notebook” | Kobe City Mixed Chorus & Kobe High School Choir

This piece, chosen as the compulsory song for the High School Division of the 2024 All-Japan School Music Competition, is a choral work composed by Ko Matsushita with lyrics by Machi Tawara.

The lyrics, written in relatable, down-to-earth language, express both hopes and anxieties about the future, along with words that capture daily change and growth.

Blending Matsushita’s meticulous harmonies with a rich melody—and enhanced by its dramatic structure—the work resonates powerfully with listeners.

It’s a highly recommended song for anyone about to take a new step forward.

Beloved by many high school students, it’s drawing attention as a piece to be tackled at the N-Con.

MiracleGReeeeN

[Chorus Version] GReeeeN - Kiseki

GReeeeN is a four-man group shrouded in mystery.

Their song “Kiseki” features a catchy melody and a gradually building structure, making it perfect for choral performance.

The title carries a double meaning: “kiseki” as the “tracks” or “footsteps” of the journey you’ve shared together, and “kiseki” as the “miracle” of everyone meeting by chance.

In either sense, it’s an ideal theme to sing with classmates who have spent their school days together.

With its simple, easy-to-remember melody, this song can be a real help even when there isn’t much time to practice!

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Yuuki

Report a problem

Positive Taro ~A Beginning Anytime~Ueda Maki

Positive Taro ~Always the Beginning~

This is the set piece for the High School Division of the 85th NHK National School Music Competition.

The lyrics were written by Tsunku, the vocalist of Sharam Q and producer of groups such as Morning Musume.

While it’s easy to become negative, the song was created with the hope that you, too, will become a “Positive Taro,” believing “I’m invincible, I’m okay!” and face all kinds of challenges.

The repeated phrase at the end of the song will give you, a high school student, the power to take your first step forward!

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

SAKI

Report a problem

ChessboardOfisharu Higedan Dism

N-Con 90 Required Piece “Chessboard” (Junior High School Division) | Kobe City Mixed Chorus

A grand song by Official HIGE DANDism that likens the broad canvas of life to a chessboard.

Created as the set piece for the NHK National School Music Competition’s junior high division, the work pairs gentle piano tones with lyrics that warmly portray how we keep searching for our roles amid the interwoven happiness and sorrow—like a checkerboard pattern.

Released as a digital single in August 2023, it was also featured on NHK’s “Minna no Uta.” For choral performances at school festivals, we recommend singing in a way that layers each person’s feelings while making the most of the harmony between the piano accompaniment and strings.

Time Travelersakushi: Fukada Junko, sakkyoku: Hashimoto Shōji

Time Traveler

“Travelers of Time” is a classic favorite in middle and high school choir competitions.

It was composed by Shōji Hashimoto, a musician known for his many choral works.

The piece features a classical melody that evokes hope for a bright future.

Its fresh, invigorating sound suits high school students in their youth, leaving a strong impression.

With a structure in which the main melody shifts, it lends itself to showcasing vibrant choral work in mixed three-part harmony.

How about singing this choral piece that conjures images of clear skies and natural landscapes?

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

mutō

Report a problem