[For Junior High School Chorus] A Curated Selection of Challenging Popular Works and Classic Songs

rainbowMoriyama Naotaro

[Chorus] Rainbow – Naotaro Moriyama (Mixed Three-Part Chorus) with Lyrics

This piece was specially written as a set work for the NHK All-Japan School Music Competition.

Its lyrics, which gently resonate with the hearts of junior high school students, are especially compelling.

With delicate wording, it expresses how encounters and farewells, joy and sorrow, are two sides of the same coin.

Released in 2006, the song was also included on Naotaro Moriyama’s album “Kazamachi Kōsaten” (Wind-Waiting Crossroads).

Perfect for choir competitions and graduation ceremonies—occasions of parting from friends and meeting new ones—this song will surely make for a moving choral performance when sung with heartfelt emotion, each person picturing their own life’s journey.

ReplayDISH//

[Female Chorus] Replay / 89th (2022) NHK All-Japan School Music Competition Required Piece, Junior High School (Diva.Draft)

“Replay,” selected as the compulsory piece for the 89th NHK All-Japan School Choral Competition, was created in 2022 by the rock band DISH//, whose vocalist is Takumi Kitamura, also active as an actor.

The lyrics overflow with emotional feelings depicted under the theme of “youth,” leaving a strong impression.

Its expansive melodic line, well-suited to a junior high school choral competition, is sure to resonate with listeners.

It’s a song filled with memorable messages for junior high students who repeatedly experience “meetings” and “farewells.” Be sure to try singing it in mixed three-part or treble three-part chorus.

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I can hear (it)Sakushi: Iwama Yoshiki / Sakkyoku: Niimi Tokuhide

Audible [Tokyo Mixed Chorus]

This choral piece weaves moving harmonies with intricate rhythms.

Its lyrics, depicting the feelings of a young person listening to the many voices from around the world, leave a strong impression.

Composed as the set piece for the high school division of the 58th NHK All-Japan School Choir Competition in 1991, it has since been sung by many choirs.

Expressing the emotions of youth who care about social and global events yet struggle with the dilemma of feeling powerless, this work is perfect for junior high school students who are beginning to look out at the wider world.

It’s a song that lets you experience the joy of uniting your hearts through choral singing!

Time Travelersakushi: Fukada Junko / sakkyoku: Hashimoto Shorou

Time Traveler

This is a choral piece that powerfully sings of hope and dreams for the future.

Junko Fukada’s lyrics and Yoshimichi Hashimoto’s music blend beautifully, depicting people on a journey that transcends time.

With lyrics that resonate with junior high school students and a soaring melody, this work has been beloved by many choirs since its release in 1990.

Its structure—vividly portraying scenes while modulating through key changes—is also part of its charm.

Although the level of difficulty is on the higher side, dedicated practice will lead to a wonderful performance.

It’s a perfect choice for occasions where you sing as one with your peers, such as choir competitions or graduation ceremonies.

GiftShiho Ochi · Koichi Tsutaya

Gifts [Iwate University Chorus]

A song marked by a warm, compassionate melody and a powerful message that boosts self-esteem.

It gently conveys the importance of finding your true self while supporting the unique anxieties and loneliness of adolescence.

Released in September 2019, it was also chosen as the set piece for the junior high division of the 85th NHK National School Music Competition.

The music video portrays junior high students just as they are, resonating with many viewers.

When everyone sings it together—at choir contests, graduation ceremonies, or other class- or grade-wide performances—it’s sure to become a wonderful shared memory.

DepartureSakushi: Yamazaki Kayoko / Sakkyoku: Matsushita Ko

[N-Con 2018] The 85th NHK All-Japan School Choir Competition, Ishimine Elementary School – Set Piece 'Departure'

This piece was selected as the set song for the junior high school division of the 85th NHK All-Japan School Music Competition.

It sings directly about the conflicts and uncertainties of adolescence.

Adults who listen will be able to reflect on their own younger days and relate to it, while children who listen may feel at ease, as if they can open up about their worries.

Song of Fresh Green LeavesSakushi: Komori Kōko / Sakkyoku: Kumagai Ken’ichi

Song of Fresh Green Leaves

The soprano part takes center stage in the striking choral piece “Aoba no Uta.” Released in 1974, this work is known as a challenging three-part mixed chorus.

Owing to its difficulty, it is also unusual in that there are versions with altered lyrics, accompaniment, and alto lines to reduce the level of difficulty.

Many sections are demanding due to the high range and quick, bounce-like color changes in the sound.

A key tip is to be mindful of passages meant to be sung in one breath without breaking, and to make the soprano line shine clearly.

Male voices should also aim to sing with a solid, deep resonance.

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utatane

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