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

river mouthSakushi: Maruyama Yutaka / Sakkyoku: Dan Ikuma

Mixed Chorus Suite Chikugo River V. Estuary with Lyrics

Estuary depicts the journey of a river’s water as it flows from upstream to downstream and eventually reaches the sea.

The image of the flowing river is also likened to the process students go through from enrollment to graduation, which is why it’s beloved as a graduation song.

Because the key for sopranos and other female voices is high, you need to be careful with your vocal technique.

The phrasing and dynamics are also challenging, so be sure to interpret the lyrics carefully as you sing.

Additionally, the piano accompaniment is difficult, not just the singing, so accompanists should take extra care as well.

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SAKI

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I can hear silence.Sakushi: Sumino Yoru / Sakkyoku: Matsumoto Nozomi

Hearing Silence [Conductor Cam] Conductor: Naoto Aizawa / 89th (2022) NHK National School Music Competition, High School Division — Set Piece

A gem of a choral piece by Nozomi Matsumoto that listens to the voice of the heart in the midst of silence.

Its delicate harmonies and richly expressive melody beautifully convey feelings beyond words.

Chosen as the set piece for the High School Division of the 89th NHK All-Japan School Music Competition, it deeply moved many students.

The work is available in several versions, including mixed chorus (SATB) and three-part women’s chorus.

Sung together at important occasions such as choral competitions or graduation ceremonies, it is sure to create a moving stage that resonates in the hearts of listeners.

Wasted wishesAKB48

[MV full] Negai-goto no Mochigusare / AKB48 [Official]

A track notable for its unusual 6/8 time signature and a mysterious melody reminiscent of Russian folk songs.

AKB48’s expressive harmonies pair perfectly with the original choreography, which evokes a wizard manipulating dolls.

Released in May 2017, the piece was broadcast on NHK’s “Minna no Uta” and was also selected as the required song for the Junior High School Division of the 84th NHK All-Japan School Music Competition.

Its appeal as a choral work is fully brought out, making it a song you’ll want to perform in school music classes and choir competitions.

Recommended as a piece that invites singers to reflect together on the meaning of making dreams and wishes come true.

March 9Remioromen

Remioromen – March 9

A song marked by lyrics full of kindness and a memorable melody.

Created to celebrate a member’s friend’s wedding, it gently portrays moments that evoke the changing seasons and feelings of gratitude toward loved ones.

The transition from a calm tone to a soaring chorus showcases Remioromen’s signature delicacy of expression.

Released in March 2004, the song drew wide attention as an insert track in the Fuji TV drama “1 Litre of Tears.” It’s a moving piece often performed at important gatherings—such as choirs and graduation ceremonies—where people come together.

Promise of SunflowersHata Motohiro

Hata Motohiro - Promise of a Sunflower (choral/chorus version)

Hata Motohiro’s song, written specifically as the theme for a 3DCG animated film, is a moving piece that sings of an unending bond of love.

The gentle tones of the acoustic guitar and his clear, transparent vocals softly embrace the heart.

Released as a single in August 2014, it reached No.

4 on the Oricon Daily Ranking and earned a million-download certification for the single track, capturing the hearts of many.

Perfectly in harmony with the movie’s theme, this work resonates across time as a classic, making it ideal for choral performance.

It’s highly recommended for school events and gatherings where you want to deepen the bonds among friends.

BelieveLyrics and Composition: Sugimoto Ryūichi

[Choral Song] Believe — Tokyo Tama Boys and Girls Choir

This is a choral piece filled with a warm, embracing melody and deep affection.

Ryuichi Sugimoto infused the song with themes of friendship, mutual support, and hope for the future.

Overflowing with a gentle desire to stand by someone who needs encouragement, this work was released in 1998 as the ending theme for NHK’s “Ikimono Chikyū Kikō” (A Journey of Life on Earth).

Its warm lyrics and harmonies are perfect for choir competitions that aim to deepen classroom bonds or for memorable graduation ceremonies.

Sung together with friends, it becomes a piece that resonates even more deeply.

As many times as you likeDREAMS COME TRUE

EME-C3138 Again and Again / DREAMS COME TRUE [Mixed Chorus, 3 Parts]

An inspiring anthem by DREAMS COME TRUE that celebrates the strength to rise again and again.

Released in February 2005 as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Emergency Room 24 Hours (Season 3),” the track reached No.

3 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

With its warm melody that empathizes with those striving to overcome setbacks and its grand arrangement, the song leaves a lasting impression.

It is also included on the album “THE LOVE ROCKS” and is beloved across generations.

A heartwarming piece that gently teaches the importance of believing in yourself and continuing to move forward when faced with difficulties—perfect for a choral performance at a school festival or as a closing number for a class presentation.