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

William Tell OvertureRosshīni

[Yuri Simonov] William Tell Overture Gioachino Rossini: Opera “William Tell”, Overture (March of the Swiss Army)

The overture to a grand opera by Rossini, one of Italy’s most iconic composers.

Structured in four parts, it begins at dawn, passes through a storm scene, moves into pastoral tranquility, and then unfolds into a heroic march—a truly masterful progression.

Premiered in 1829, this work became widely known as the opening theme of the American TV series The Lone Ranger and was also used on Fuji TV’s Oretachi Hyokin-zoku, lodging itself in the memories of many.

Its powerful rhythms and dynamic melodies make it perfect for the exit scene at a school sports day, heightening the excitement as participants leave the field and bringing the event to a rousing, resonant close.

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.

Happy ChildrenShinzawa Toshihiko

Happy Children (Lyrics by Toshihiko Shinzawa / Music by Hirotaka Nakagawa) [From Toshihiko Shinzawa’s 40th Anniversary of Musical Activities “Nursery Song Concert”]

This song, created by Toshihiko Shinzawa and Hirotaka Nakagawa, is a bright dance track themed around the power of children’s innocence and smiles to bring happiness to those around them.

With its lively rhythm and memorable melody, it’s an easy-to-sing-and-dance-to tune that kids can’t help but hum along to.

Released in 2001, the song has been loved by many for years and is widely used in educational settings and events.

It’s highly recommended for children and adults to dance together!

Peep-peep, pao!Kimura Kaera

TV anime “Hanakappa” opening theme “Pi-Pi-Pao!” video

Kaela Kimura is in charge of the new opening theme for the anime Hanakappa, currently airing on NHK Educational TV (E-Tele).

This work, filled with happiness and fun, portrays the children’s stories set in Hanahana Land through an exciting melody and heartwarming lyrics.

Incorporating memorable melodies she created in her childhood, the song is packed with Kaela Kimura’s passion for music.

Beloved as the new opening theme for Hanakappa since November 2024, it is also slated to be included in Kaela Kimura’s 20th-anniversary album, “KAELA KIMURA 20th ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL BOX.” It’s perfect for morning gatherings at nursery schools and kindergartens, as well as for singing and dancing together with children.

Idol Precure with You♪ Light Up!Ishii Ami, Kumada Akane, Yoshitake Chihaya

“You and Idol Precure♪” Opening Theme Song “You and Idol Precure♪ Light Up!” (Non-teleop version / textless version)

A bright, energetic, and fun-filled anime song has arrived! Sung by Ami Ishii, Akane Kumada, and Chihaya Yoshitake, this track features captivating vocals that convey the power of friendship and the beauty of music.

Its dazzling, lively melody and lyrics about smiles and sparkle will resonate with your heart.

Chosen as the opening theme for the anime “Kimi to Idol Precure♪,” which began airing in February 2025, it’s slated for release in March of the same year in two formats: a CD+DVD edition and a standard edition.

It’s the perfect song for anyone who wants a boost through music, as well as for kids who want to sing and dance together with their friends.

I want to ride a vehicle.Hanada Yuuichirou, Nagata Maya

I Want to Ride a Vehicle♪ With Mother | With Lyrics [Babies Delighted, Stop Crying, Laughing Dance, Song, Japanese Children’s Songs] Educational/Developmental for Infants and Toddlers covered by UtaSuta

A lively, vehicle-themed song has arrived! Sung by Yuichiro Hanada and Tamaa Nagata, this fun melody showcases 20 uniquely charming vehicles one after another.

With its up-tempo, rhythmic style and light, friendly vocals, it’s an irresistible track that makes you want to move.

It began airing in November 2024 and is also included in the 2025 April songbook “Takaromono.” It’s a piece that children who love vehicles—and adults, too—can enjoy together.

Open your imaginations with your kids and take flight into the world of all kinds of vehicles!

March of the RoadHanada Yuuichirou, Nagata Maya

[Okaasan to Issho] Road March ♪ | Tsukiuta | covered by UtaSta | video by UtaSta | Stops babies from crying | Songs babies enjoy | Nursery rhyme | Children's song | With choreography | Educational anime

A lively marching song perfect for school sports days is here! We’re excited to introduce the January 2025 “Song of the Month” from Okaasan to Issho, sung by Yuichiro Hanada and Maya Nagata.

It’s a bright track that captures the feeling of moving forward with your head held high, carried by a brisk brass and drum rhythm.

Clap along to the rhythmic melody and move your body with a big smile.

The song is also included on the album “NHK Okaasan to Issho: Latest Best—Hyuurara Bunbun!” so you can enjoy it both at home and in childcare settings.

It’s a wonderful piece for the start of a new year, letting children and adults alike share the feeling of walking toward the future together!