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.
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Recommended for middle schoolers! A selection of pop songs you’ll want to play at your piano recital (1–10)
Lupin the Third Theme ’78Ōno Yūji
The theme song from the national favorite anime Lupin the Third is known by everyone, even generations who didn’t watch it in real time! While the arrangement of the theme varies depending on when the anime aired, isn’t “Theme from Lupin the Third ’78” arguably the most popular and well-loved version? Just hearing that cool, driving intro instantly pumps you up—something that’s true across all generations, kids included! If you perform it at a recital, not only will the player feel great playing it, but the audience will be grooving along too!
mixed nutsOfisharu Higedan Dism
Official HIGE DANDism’s “Mixed Nuts” has enough rhythmic drive and note density to be more than satisfying for a recital performance.
Released in 2022, the song was used as the opening theme for the anime SPY×FAMILY.
For the opening, ad-lib-like section, it’s best to play freely and flamboyantly to create that “here we go” feeling.
Because the notes are densely arranged, be careful not to drop any.
The rhythm can also be tricky, so practice at a slow tempo until you get used to it.
Once you can play it in tempo with a solid groove, it feels fantastic.
Become a flowerRyokushokushakai
Ryokuoushoku Shakai’s “Hana ni Natte,” created with the theme of “a flower blooming in the shade” as the opening theme for the TV anime The Apothecary Diaries, is a song that gives you a supportive push, saying, “No matter if you’re in the shade or anywhere else, it’s fine to stay just the way you are.” While “the shade” often evokes a dark, subdued image, this track is characterized by a flashy sound that goes in the exact opposite direction! With an up-tempo, driving beat, if you perform it with energy, you’re sure to stand out at any recital.
Recommended for middle schoolers! A selection of pop songs to play at a piano recital (11–20)
New EraAdo
A catchy, upbeat pop melody lights up the recital venue: Ado’s “New Genesis.” Released digitally in 2022 and later included on the album “Uta no Uta ONE PIECE FILM RED,” the song was used as the opening theme for the film ONE PIECE FILM RED.
Since the synth melody is a standout feature, aim for a performance with enough sparkle to match the synth’s presence.
It’s recommended to include plenty of octave passages and to play the signature lines—like the pre-chorus hits—cleanly and confidently.
Channel your inner Uta and perform with confidence!
Overture from the Suite “Dragon Quest”sugiyama kouichi
Despite originating as in-game music, the Suite ‘Dragon Quest’ has been widely performed and acclaimed at wind ensemble, brass band, and orchestral concerts.
Among the orchestral arrangements made by the composer himself, the Overture—which captures the excitement of the beginning of an adventure—is especially popular and is frequently performed at piano recitals.
This piece is recommended not only for middle schoolers who love video games, but also for students who excel more at brilliant, showy playing than delicate expression.
Using orchestral performances as a reference, aim for a grand scale by applying plenty of dynamic contrast in your performance.
HeroYOASOBI
YOASOBI’s “The Brave,” written as the opening theme for the popular TV anime Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End.
Created by the two members of YOASOBI, who are fans of the original work, the song portrays the anime’s slightly lonely atmosphere and the protagonist’s shifting emotions throughout their travels.
To bring out the song’s delicate, wistful quality on the piano, it’s important to play with a soft touch even at an uptempo pace.
To avoid unnecessary accents and harsh tones, try not to lift your fingers too high when striking the keys and keep them close to the keyboard as you play.
FlowerFuji Kaze
Hana by Fujii Kaze was written as the theme song for the drama Ichiban Sukina Hana starring Mikako Tabe.
Its jazzy feel and languid vocals make it a track that lingers in your ears.
In middle school, both mind and body draw closer to adulthood, and everyone feels a strong longing to grow up.
Tastes also change greatly during this time.
With its meaningful message wrapped in a smooth, stylish finish, this song is a perfect choice for a recital piece for middle school students.