Recommended for junior high school students! A selection of pop songs perfect for piano recitals
Many people probably have the impression that “piano recitals are for playing classical pieces!” It’s true that classical music makes up a large portion of performances, and there are even studios that focus exclusively on classical.
However, in recent years more children have been attending piano lessons not as a form of ‘culture’ or ‘refinement,’ but as a hobby-like activity, and it feels like the range of genres performed at recitals has broadened accordingly.
So this time, from among the many pop pieces frequently chosen as recital repertoire outside the classical realm, we’ve picked recommendations that are perfect for junior high school students!
From anime theme songs to Vocaloid tracks and the latest hits—we’ve got plenty to share.
Recommended for middle schoolers! A selection of pop songs you’ll want to play at your piano recital (1–10)
Que sera, seraMrs. GREEN APPLE
“Que Sera Sera,” released in April 2023 by the rock band Mrs.
GREEN APPLE and winner of the 65th Japan Record Awards that same year.
The song was written as the theme for the drama “Even Just for Sunday Night,” starring Nana Seino.
While its buoyant, cheerful sound and soaring vocals are captivating, the most striking feature is the lyrics, which give you the courage to move forward step by step.
Performing this piece at a recital might inspire middle school students to rediscover the value of taking on challenges.
Detective Conan Main ThemeŌno Katsuo
The main theme of the anime Detective Conan is hugely popular not only on piano but also in wind ensembles.
Composed by Katsuo Ono, this piece also graces the opening of the feature films released each year.
It’s such a well-known song that everyone associates with Conan, so the moment the intro starts, you’re sure to capture the audience’s attention.
For the final and most important “kime” phrase, performing it in unison with both hands is recommended.
Since the arrangement varies from movie to movie, try playing your favorite version.
Dinner Songtuki.
“Bansanka,” sung by tuki, a middle-school singer-songwriter who gained attention with acoustic performance videos on TikTok and has a strong following especially among young people.
With a voice that still has a touch of innocence and lyrics that sing of unwavering love for “you,” it’s a warm, simple love song that really hits the heart.
The straightforward feelings that tuki, an active middle schooler, poured into the song are sure to resonate deeply with other middle school kids.
Choosing this song will make the recital even more memorable.
idolYOASOBI
YOASOBI’s “Idol,” which was selected as the opening theme for the TV anime Oshi no Ko, became a massive hit.
It’s an unforgettable track with a high-impact blend of breakneck speed and catchy melody.
To convey the song’s flashiness and drive on the piano, it’s important to keep a precise accompaniment at the uptempo pace and to use accents effectively where distinctive rhythms—like syncopations—appear.
While maintaining the tempo, don’t play it too safe out of fear of mistakes; aim for bold, expressive performance.
rainbowSuda Masaki
Suda Masaki’s Niji, which was chosen as the theme song for the film STAND BY ME Doraemon 2 and became a massive hit, is a soothing track marked by a faintly nostalgic atmosphere, an unforced, natural vocal delivery, and lyrics that celebrate the importance of bonds.
Its world gently wraps the heart and warms it from deep within, pairing perfectly with the mellow timbre of the piano.
If you play the quiet, spoken-like sections gently, and in the chorus—where the emotions overflow—press your body’s weight into the keys as if transmitting your feelings to the piano, you’ll have the audience moved to tears before they know it.
Zankyo SankaAimer
Aimer’s “Zankyosanka,” which drew attention as the opening theme for the smash-hit TV anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Entertainment District Arc.
Its exhilarating tempo, dazzling orchestral sound, and Aimer’s powerful vocals make it an addictive track.
While its grand worldview is expressed through a variety of tones, the impact doesn’t fade even when played on solo piano—in fact, it sounds even more stylish, which is one of the song’s strengths.
Perform it at a recital, and you’re sure to capture the audience’s hearts!
Senbonzakura feat. Hatsune MikuKurousa-P
Senbonzakura is a piece that every keyboard player wants to try at least once.
Released in 2011, it was produced by the Vocaloid producer Kurousa-P.
The flood of sixteenth notes at a fast tempo gives it a refreshing drive, making it a joy both to play and to listen to.
The strong, catchy melody that sticks in the audience’s ears is another highlight.
Because the tempo is so quick, you need to watch out for missed notes.
Until you get used to it, practice slowly so you can accurately play every note.
Once you’re comfortable, be careful not to rush.
Aim for a performance that captures both the exhilaration and brilliance of beautiful cherry blossoms in full bloom.