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

IN TERRA PAX – Peace on EarthSakushi: Tsurumi Masao, Sakkyoku: Ogikubo Kazuaki

IN TERRA PAX Peace on Earth (from the mixed chorus suite “IN TERRA PAX Peace on Earth”)

“IN TERRA PAX – Peace on Earth” was created around the theme of love on a global scale.

The newly written lyrics by Masao Tsurumi and the expansive, open-hearted melody composed by Kazuaki Ogikubo leave a strong impression.

Originally, it was produced as one piece within a suite themed on war and peace.

Its passionate sound, conveying a powerful will, is sure to give you courage.

This is a choral work we especially hope high school students—on the cusp of adulthood—will sing with heartfelt intent.

Please showcase the dynamic resonance of mixed chorus.

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mutō

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broad daylightKing Gnu

[Mixed Chorus] Hakujitsu – King Gnu

One of the signature songs by the rock band King Gnu, which exploded in popularity in 2019.

The high notes by vocalist Mr.

Iguchi in the intro are striking, and I think it’s widely recognized as a high-difficulty song for karaoke.

How about taking on this notoriously difficult piece as a choral arrangement? In a choir, you can divide parts by vocal range, which might actually make it easier to tackle.

While the original is a rock song, if you arrange it for chorus and perform it beautifully, you’re sure to feel a great sense of accomplishment!

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Hane Keisuke

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Blue BenchSasuke

2014 School Year Choir Competition: "Blue Bench"

When it comes to hit songs by Sasuke, the one by Yuta Shimizu and Yuji Okuyama is “Aoi Bench” (“Blue Bench”).

Released in 2004 as their debut single, it reached No.

8 on the Oricon Singles Chart.

In 2008, it was included in music textbooks and has since become a staple for junior high and high school choral competitions.

It’s a heartbreak song that conveys bittersweet emotions, so hearing it sung by students in their youth really resonates.

The upbeat, rhythmic melody can be a bit challenging, but give it a try!

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Hamada Takuya

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contrailArai Yumi

contrail

When it comes to Yumi Matsutoya’s classic songs that are also popular as choral pieces, the 1973 release Hikoukigumo (Voyage) surely comes to mind.

It was a hit when it first came out and later became the theme song for Studio Ghibli’s film The Wind Rises, making it a beloved track across generations.

Choral arrangements have been published in various versions by many different publishers.

Matsutoya’s signature simple, wistful melody suits choral music perfectly.

Try finding a choral arrangement you like and give it a go!

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Hamada Takuya

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futureTakashima Midori

future

The final piece of the five-song mixed chorus suite “Flute Sounding in the Wind.” Because the same lyrics are repeated and there are many key changes, it’s a challenging work in terms of expression.

The lyrics, filled with hope for the future, leave a strong impression.

It’s a piece that evokes an image of a clear, limitless blue sky.

Song of LifeManakana

Mariya Takeuchi – Inochi no Uta (Song of Life) with Lyrics (Two-Part Chorus)

This is a song performed by the duo Mana Kana, who also appeared in the drama, as an insert song for NHK’s morning drama “Dandan.” It’s a highly recommended piece that’s especially popular as a choral song among high school students and other students.

In the original version, the gentle accompaniment and the duo’s beautifully clear voices leave a strong impression, so it feels completely natural even when arranged for choir.

Not only is the composition itself beautiful, but the words in the lyrics are also truly lovely—this is a song you’ll want to sing with great care.

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Hane Keisuke

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Someday, these tearsLittle Glee Monster

EMF3-0048 Someday These Tears [Women's 3-Part Chorus]

It’s a Little Glee Monster song that resonates as an anthem cheering on those striving toward their dreams.

The members’ powerful yet delicate vocals blend beautifully, gently embracing the strength to never give up in the face of setbacks and hardships, as well as the profound meaning that tears can hold.

Released in January 2018, the song was chosen as the support song for the 96th All Japan High School Soccer Tournament.

It’s a heartwarming encouragement song that stands beside those who, through daily practice and challenges, shed tears yet keep moving forward, and those advancing toward their precious goals.