A web magazine to help you enjoy the piano even more

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

Accompanist / Piano Instructoryuri
Accompanist pianist × piano instructor × web writer. I began piano lessons at age four and, inspired by my piano teacher, decided to pursue music. I went on to specialized music programs in high school and university, where I discovered the appeal of accompanying instrumentalists and singers. Currently, alongside teaching piano, I work mainly in my home region of Aichi as an accompanist for flute, voice, choir, and more. Through lessons, my students often introduce me to trending songs, and my hobby is trying anything on the piano—Japanese and Western pop, commercial jingles, and beyond. Since 2021, I’ve also been active as a web writer, covering music and a variety of other genres.

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 junior high school students! A selection of pop songs to play at a piano recital (31–40)

The Decisive Battle – from Final Fantasy X Piano CollectionsUematsu Nobuo

decisive battle

The Decisive Battle - from Final Fantasy X Piano CollectionsUematsu Nobuo

This is a piano arrangement of a popular track that colors the battle scenes of Final Fantasy X.

It’s an ambitious work that brilliantly conveys the original’s intensity and energetic progression using a single piano.

The fast tempo, complex rhythms, and dynamic shifts in volume create a tension-filled soundscape that overwhelms the listener.

Included on the 2002 album “Piano Collections FINAL FANTASY X,” this piece features an inventive structure that skillfully incorporates irregular meters and key changes, thoroughly testing the performer’s technique and expressive range.

It’s perfect for those who want to leave a strong impression at a recital—a compelling addition to your repertoire that allows for a dazzling, passionate performance.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Champion CynthiaMasuda Junichi

[Piano] I tried playing Cynthia’s battle theme from Pokémon Diamond and Pearl [Pokemon Shirona Battle]

Champion CynthiaMasuda Junichi

A powerful piano melody rings out, unfolding into a grand piece brimming with tension and exhilaration.

The work’s melody carries a fierce sense of speed that symbolizes strength and dignity, stirring the hearts of listeners.

Released in 2006, it has remained deeply etched in many people’s memories as music that heightens the intensity of heated battles.

It is favored in a variety of events and scenes, and is even used as wedding background music.

While it demands dazzling, impactful performance technique, it also allows for rich expressiveness.

As a piece that fully showcases the piano’s charm, it is an excellent choice for recitals and concerts.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Zankyo SankaAimer

Zankyou Sanka – Demon Slayer S2 OP [Piano] / Aimer

Zankyo SankaAimer

Aimer’s “Zankyosanka,” written as the opening theme for the smash-hit anime Demon Slayer: Entertainment District Arc, is a track marked by its dazzling sound and powerful vocals! The chorus is so impactful that you can’t help but hum along.

When performing it on piano, you can draw listeners in even more by not only conveying the brilliant, fast-paced feel of the piece, but also by being mindful of the shadowy pauses that peek through here and there.

Another key point is to use the pedal to connect notes smoothly while still cutting the notes that should be cut cleanly to create sharp contrast.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

In conclusion

From among pop songs that sound impressive and are great for piano recitals, we introduced pieces perfect for kids who love anime and games, as well as trend-savvy middle schoolers! When they can fully enjoy performing a piece they truly want to play, many middle school students will feel a strong sense of achievement and confidence. To help piano recitals contribute to children’s personal growth, please choose pieces with care—using the songs listed in this article as a reference.