Popular songs recommended for nursery school sports days! A roundup of classic crowd-pleasers and the latest hits

Baroque HoedownJean Jacques Perrey

Jean-Jacques Perrey – Baroque Hoedown

This is a quintessential electronic music piece from the 1960s, notable for its distinctive Moog synthesizer tones.

Blending Baroque elements with a country-style rhythm, the unique composition features a bright, upbeat melody that lingers in the mind.

Included on the duo Jean-Jacques Perrey and Gershon Kingsley’s 1967 album “Kaleidoscopic Vibrations: Electronic Pop Music From Way Out,” the work was adopted in June 1972 as the theme for Disneyland’s Main Street Electrical Parade and has been beloved by many ever since.

It’s a perfect choice for festive, celebratory occasions—such as parade entries at sports days or award ceremonies—guaranteed to fill the venue with a lively, cheerful atmosphere.

The EntertainerScott Joplin

The Entertainer – Piano – Joplin

This piano piece is characterized by syncopated rhythms and a light, buoyant melody, combining a bright, pop-like atmosphere.

Its lively, energetic phrases make it a perfect match for entrance marches at sports days or as background music for calisthenics.

Originally composed by Scott Joplin in 1902, it gained renewed fame through Marvin Hamlisch’s arrangement for the 1973 film The Sting, which won seven Academy Awards including Best Picture.

Its distinctive rhythm and melodic lines make it easy to use as a march, and its familiar, singable tune appeals to everyone.

Ideal for bringing sparkle to entrance and exit scenes at school sports events, it’s recommended for those who want to create a vibrant, energetic mood.

Music Collection for Sports Day: Go Go GoZama Yoshihiro

Music Collection for Sports Day: Go Go Go / Yoshihiro Zama (BBMS-83006)

This is a collection of pieces that set the perfect mood for each scene, from the brass band’s essential, dazzling fanfares at sports festivals to the excitement during events.

Performed powerfully by the JGSDF Eastern Army Band, it includes music suitable for various moments such as opening and closing ceremonies and award presentations.

Arranged by trombonist and composer Yoshihiro Zama, the album centers on bright, lively marches and fanfares, featuring a rhythmic and dynamic structure.

Introduced at the 2015 Japan Band Directors Clinic, it’s a highly practical album widely used by educational institutions nationwide and at community events.

It’s an ideal choice not only for those planning and managing sports days, but also for anyone considering music for sporting events.

I am the strongest.Ado

[Ado] I’m the Strongest (Uta from ONE PIECE FILM RED)

A powerful anthem of will and resolve from the film ONE PIECE FILM RED.

Released by Ado in June 2022, the song is notable for lyrics brimming with self-affirmation that wells up from deep within and heartfelt care for one’s companions.

The energetic, exhilarating rock sound crafted by Motoki Omori of Mrs.

GREEN APPLE and Ado’s distinctive vocals truly shine.

The song expresses the feelings of the film’s character Uta, depicting the process of acknowledging one’s own weaknesses and anxieties while overcoming them to grow stronger.

It’s a perfect track for rallying yourself at a sports day or athletic festival, or when you want to strive together with your teammates.

Freak It! ft. Tokyo Ska Paradise OrchestraMAN WITH A MISSION

MAN WITH A MISSION – Freak It! ft. Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra

It’s a lively track that blends a high-velocity rock sound with ska elements.

Created through a collaboration between MAN WITH A MISSION and Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra in February 2018, the song expresses a burning fighting spirit and a will to charge into the future.

Its party-ready, fiery sound and powerful message encouraging free, unrestrained ideas and actions make a strong impression.

Chosen as the official theme song for Super Rugby’s Sunwolves and included on the album “Chasing the Horizon,” this piece has captivated many as a go-to track to energize sports scenes, parties, and of course, school sports day relays.

together; along with; bothWANIMA

WANIMA – Together (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

This song features a powerful, passionate vocal performance and a striking rock sound.

Its uplifting message encourages pushing forward through setbacks and anxiety, and the melody that sings of friendship and gratitude resonates deeply.

Released in August 2016, it was featured in a NIVEA Kao “8×4” commercial, capturing many hearts with its energetic sound and meaningful lyrics.

During production, the Kumamoto earthquakes occurred, and that experience imbued the song with reflections on the preciousness of life and love for one’s hometown, making it a profound piece.

This track is perfect not only for tug-of-war at school sports festivals, but also for moments when you want to work hard with someone, take on challenges as a team, or find the courage to move forward.

Is youth embarrassing, or is it youth if it’s embarrassing?Ryokushokushakai

Ryokuoushoku Shakai 'Is Youth Embarrassing?' Official Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai – Hazukashiika Seishun wa

This is a dynamic, invigorating track that dramatically portrays an all-out sprint.

Looking back as an adult, it brings to mind that fiery page of youth when we ran with everything we had.

Produced in July 2024 as the theme song for ABEMA’s “Kyou, Suki ni Narimashita Summer Vacation 2024,” the piece achieves an epic sense of scale through a collaboration with a 40-piece orchestra.

Its powerful melody and driving sound gently encourage young people to move forward without fear of taking on new challenges.

It’s also an ideal choice for background music at school sports days and athletic events.