Recommended for junior high school students! A selection of pop songs perfect for piano recitals

Blue HabitatKitanitatsuya

[Piano] I Tried Playing “Where Our Blue Is” (Ao no Sumika) [Jujutsu Kaisen ‘Hidden Inventory/Premature Death’ OP]

A multi-talented artist who brings innovation to Japan’s music scene, Tatsuya Kitani’s song “Aono Sumika.” Widely talked about as the opening theme for Season 2 of the popular anime Jujutsu Kaisen, this work skillfully depicts the brilliant moments of youth and the emotions that accompany them.

For junior high school students, taking on a piano arrangement of this piece is not only a chance to hone technique, but also an important opportunity to express the song’s deep emotions and delicate nuances.

To avoid merely lining up notes, hum the lyrics, expand your imagery, and approach your piano performance with that vision in mind.

Kaiju no Hanabuta (Monster’s Flower Song)Vaundy

Vaundy - Kaijuu no Hanabuta (Monster’s Flower Song) [With Sheet Music] Tried Playing It on Piano♪

Vaundy’s signature song “Kaijū no Hanauta,” which gained attention after being featured in a Maruha Nichiro commercial, is a powerful, message-driven work that portrays a world where nostalgia and freshness—connecting past, present, and future—coexist.

Its friendly, simple melody isn’t rhythmically complicated and stays within a narrow range, making it easy to play on the piano and perfect for recitals.

Keep a steady tempo with the left-hand accompaniment, and give the melody a wide dynamic range to perform with rich expression.

Eight Concert Etudes, Op. 40: No. 1 “Prelude”Nikolai Kapustin

Nobuyuki Tsujii / Kapustin: 8 Concert Etudes Op.40 No.1 “Prelude”

A brilliant piano piece that radiates vivid sparkle.

The whirlwind of nonstop sixteenth notes and the rhythm etched by the left hand weave a sonic world that almost feels like a jazz combo on stage.

Beginning with simple chords and unfolding into a vibrant Latin rhythm, this work blends classical virtuosity with jazz swing in exquisite balance.

I’m especially reminded of Nobuyuki Tsujii’s performance at Suntory Hall in February 2018; the dynamic colors drawn from a single piano were irresistibly captivating for the audience.

It’s a perfect piece for those seeking new musical possibilities and for performers who love both jazz and classical music.

Heralding springyama

A professional pianist tried playing “Haru wo Tsugeru” as a piano solo [yama]

Yama’s signature song “Haru wo Tsugeru,” which has captivated many fans with its unique worldview, is set in late-night Tokyo and delicately portrays loneliness and a sense of the end.

When performing it on piano, the key is to play with careful attention to the balance between accompaniment and melody so you can bring out the song’s delicacy to the fullest.

If you can also understand the message and emotions embedded in the piece and reflect them in your performance, it will resonate even more deeply with the audience.

Because it’s a highly expressive work, be sure to focus not only on technique but also on emotional expression.

SummerHisaishi Joe

Joe Hisaishi – Summer

This is a piano-centered instrumental piece included on the original soundtrack of the film “Kikujiro.” Its heartwarming melody and light rhythm leave a strong impression, evoking the feel of a refreshing summer’s day.

In the film, it beautifully captures the themes of “summer adventures” and “growth” as seen through a boy’s innocent eyes, leaving a deep mark on audiences.

The piece was also used in Toyota Corolla commercials from 2000 to 2002, making it familiar to many.

Its gentle, transparent tone and faintly nostalgic melody resonate with listeners.

It’s also approachable as a piano practice piece and is sure to captivate audiences at recitals.

Those Who FightUematsu Nobuo

Those Who Fight (Piano Version)

This is a powerful instrumental piece that brilliantly captures the exhilaration of in-game battles.

Its striking melody blends the grandeur of an orchestra with the timbres of electric guitar and synthesizer, overflowing with tension and a sense of speed.

The work adds dramatic flair to standard battle scenes and serves to inspire the player’s spirit.

Since its 1997 release, it has continued to captivate fans worldwide through a variety of arrangements performed by orchestras and rock bands.

Masterfully expressing both the player’s passion and the intensity of combat, this piece also has the power to draw in audiences at piano recitals, making it an excellent choice for performers aiming for expressive, emotionally rich playing.

idolYOASOBI

“Idol” YOASOBI [With Sheet Music] Oshi no Ko Theme Song – Piano by Ear – Piano – CANACANA

YOASOBI’s “Idol,” released on April 12, 2023 as the opening theme for the TV anime Oshi no Ko, became a major sensation.

The song’s appeal lies in its gripping sound and ikura’s captivating rap section.

When playing it on piano, aim for a dynamic performance while keeping the rhythm crisp to recreate the sense of speed.

Also, pay close attention to the shifting chord progressions, and enjoy the song’s development as you play boldly.