[For Middle Schoolers] Recommended Classic Songs to Sing at Graduation Ceremonies
Have you already decided on the song to sing at the junior high school graduation ceremony?
When you graduate from junior high, it’s common for classmates to go their separate ways.
While reaching this milestone brings joy, many students also feel the sadness of parting from friends they spent every day with, as well as anxiety about entering a new environment.
In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of graduation songs that resonate with those pre-graduation feelings, including timeless staples and popular tracks.
Use it as a reference to help choose music that will brighten your graduation ceremony!
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[For Middle Schoolers] Recommended Classic Songs to Sing at Graduation (21–30)
YELLikimonogakari
“Goodbye” may be sad, but it isn’t something unhappy; it’s a word of encouragement to keep moving toward your own dreams—so teaches this moving message song.
It’s a track by Ikimono-gakari, the music group known for hits like “Arigatou” and “Blue Bird,” released in 2009 as their 15th single.
Unlike the transition from elementary to junior high school, junior high graduation often means a higher chance of being separated from your classmates.
Try singing it while thinking of friends who are going on to different schools.
On the Day of Departure
For many people, this is the song that immediately comes to mind for graduation ceremonies.
Born in 1991 at a junior high school in Saitama Prefecture, the song’s reputation spread over time through features in music magazines and use in TV commercials, and it has now become one of the quintessential graduation songs.
It has also been released as a single by famous artists on multiple occasions.
With lyrics that express hope for the future in straightforward words and a melody that makes you feel like you could fly anywhere, it’s full of charm.
[For Junior High Students] Recommended Classic Songs to Sing at Graduation (31–40)
far; distant; by farGReeeeN
This is a ballad themed around setting off on a new journey, depicting the profound love of family.
It was also the theme song for the film “ROOKIES -Graduation-,” and its lyrics—linked to the graduation of high school students who pour their youth into baseball—moved many to tears.
The words portray children who spread their wings to chase their dreams and goals, and the father and mother who, though awkward, support them with all their hearts.
The lyrics capturing these parent–child feelings are deeply moving.
Realize that someone is supporting you, and try sending your gratitude through this song.
It will surely help you welcome a wonderful graduation scene.
Unchanging ThingsSakkyoku: Yamazaki Tomoko
This piece was written and composed by Tomoko Yamazaki.
Yamazaki, who has created many choral works including “Taisetsu na Mono” and “Kizuna,” often writes songs whose simplicity allows the feelings to come straight to the heart.
This song, too, carries the message that although parting is sad, we want to cherish the encounters we’ve had.
Structurally, it begins in unison and later divides into three parts to enjoy the harmony.
The melody isn’t very complex, so it would be nice if you can avoid singing it flatly and instead express the emotions skillfully.
cherry blossomKobukuro
Both the lyrics, the melody, and the vocals seem to seep deep into your heart.
This work is by the musical duo Kobukuro, known for their beautiful choral work and straightforward musicality, and it was released in 2005 as their 12th single.
It became a big hit after being chosen as the theme song for the drama “Ns’ Aoi.” The song says that although parting from someone is painful, by thinking of that person, the feeling of love begins to grow within you.
Graduation really is a sad event, isn’t it? But that’s exactly why it helps us take another step toward adulthood.
Try singing it while truly feeling the meaning of the lyrics.
ChessboardOfisharu Higedan Dism
A song with a melody that evokes a bittersweet flutter in the heart and lyrics that portray life’s journey.
Chosen as the set piece for the middle school division of the 90th NHK All-Japan School Music Competition, this work likens life to a chessboard, singing of the importance of chance encounters and small moments.
It’s truly perfect for middle school students on the verge of graduation.
This song gently supports the complex feelings where anticipation and anxiety about a new environment intertwine.
If sung at a graduation ceremony, it will surely become a moving memory.
I should be able to fly (in the sky).supittsu
On the day you set off, you feel like listening to a song that makes you want to thank your classmates and teachers you met at school.
“Sora mo Toberu Hazu,” released by Spitz in 1994, features Kusano’s crystal-clear vocals that lift your spirits.
The wistful lyrics prompt you to look back on your school days, too.
Its catchy melody makes it easy to sing, and the chorus lyrics that make you feel like you can go anywhere are perfect for singing on graduation day!
