This is the definitive BGM for the graduation ceremony! A moving collection of songs you can use for everything from the entrance march to the thank-you party.

Symphony No. 2, Movement IIISergei Rachmaninov

Tadaaki Otaka (conductor) · Tokyo Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra / Rachmaninoff: Symphony No. 2, Movement III / Orchard Hall Subscription Concert, July 21, 2014

Among the large-scale symphonies by the Russian Romantic composer Sergei Rachmaninoff, the third movement of his Symphony No.

2 is exceptionally beautiful.

Premiered in February 1908, this work became a landmark piece that helped him overcome past harsh criticism and regain his confidence as a composer.

The clarinet’s long-breathed melody seeps into the heart like an endless song, gently embraced by the warm sonorities of the strings.

Played during diploma presentations or recessional scenes, it can create a moving atmosphere befitting the children’s departure on their next journey.

Pavane for a Dead PrincessMaurice Ravel

Ravel – Pavane for a Dead Princess, Karajan, Berlin Philharmonic, 1985

A signature work by Maurice Ravel in which quiet elegance melds with distant nostalgia.

Composed in 1899 as a solo piano piece and premiered in Paris in April 1902, it is said to have been inspired by the image of a young princess dancing at the Spanish court.

Though suffused with sadness, it never becomes heavy; its restrained beauty is part of its appeal.

Ravel later arranged the piece for orchestra himself, adding the horn’s gentle melody and the harp’s delicate hues, which gave the work a more expansive sonority.

Featured in numerous films, including Porco Rosso and Birdman, it has long provided a quiet backdrop for scenes of parting and remembrance.

It is an ideal choice for solemn yet warm occasions, such as processions of graduates or diploma presentations.

365 Days’ Paper AirplaneAKB48

[MV full] 365 Nichi no Kamihikōki / AKB48 [Official]

An AKB48 number included as the coupling track to their 42nd single “Kuchibiru ni Be My Baby,” released in December 2015, which also served as the theme song for the NHK morning drama Asadora “Asa ga Kita.” It’s an impressive piece characterized by a warm, acoustic guitar–based sound and a gentle, easy-to-hum melody.

The lyrics, using a paper airplane as a metaphor, carry the message that “life can be different for everyone” and “it’s okay to move at your own pace.” Even when things don’t go well, the song gently encourages you to try again tomorrow—making it perfect for children graduating from kindergarten.

A mixed three-part choral arrangement was performed at the NHK National School Music Contest, helping it become a staple at school events and graduation ceremonies.

Highly recommended as a motivational song that gives children the courage to face forward as they take flight into a new world.

The Londonderry Air (Danny Boy)Airurando min’yō

“The Londonderry Air” — Yuko Doi

This is a famous piece, cherished around the world as a traditional folk melody from Northern Ireland.

Its long-breathed melodic line and lingering resonance naturally evoke emotions such as nostalgia, parting, and prayer.

It spread explosively in 1913 as “Danny Boy,” with lyrics by British songwriter Frederick Weatherly, and has since continued to inspire a wide variety of lyrics and arrangements.

Its range of settings—from solo voice to full orchestra—and its establishment as ceremonial music are part of its appeal.

For graduation ceremonies, it offers a gentle sonority suitable for quiet moments or recessional scenes.

The melody, which combines a warmth that seems to watch over children as they embark on a new path with the poignancy of farewell, will resonate deeply with both guardians and teachers.

Precious friendSakushi: Itsumi Ryūichirō / Sakkyoku: Furukawa Tatsuya

Dear Friends – <Graduation Song> [Japanese Songs / Shoka]

Here’s an introduction to a moving song that’s being performed more and more often at kindergarten graduation ceremonies.

The lyrics were written by Ryuichiro Henmi, an active video director, and the music was composed by Tatsuya Furukawa, known in the game music world.

Created in 2009 as part of Benesse’s kindergarten graduation support campaign, the song was sung in the 2013 school year by children at 5,071 kindergartens nationwide—about 250,000 kids—and its cumulative CD shipments have surpassed one million.

The lyrics weave in specific episodes from kindergarten life—like getting back up after falling during a sports day thanks to friends’ cheers, or making up after a fight—which deeply resonate.

It was also used in a TV commercial in 2014, bringing it into many homes alongside touching graduation scenes.

With a bright melody tinged with a hint of poignancy, the tune suits a wide range of moments, from entrance music to slideshow background tracks.

It’s a perfect song for a graduation ceremony where you want to express gratitude to friends and teachers.

Someday, these tearsLittle Glee Monster

“Someday These Tears Will” – Little Glee Monster

Little Glee Monster, who always moves us with their stunning harmonies.

Released in December 2017, this song was created as the support anthem for the 96th All Japan High School Soccer Championship.

It delivers a powerful cheer to those striving toward their dreams, carrying a message that the tears shed in frustration or setback will one day turn into badges of honor you can be proud of.

The track was also included on their album “juice,” released the following January, and it continues to be loved as one of their signature songs.

It’s a perfect song for graduation—a milestone in life—offering the courage to take a new step while reflecting on past efforts and days spent with friends.

We especially recommend it to those who have devoted themselves to club activities or studies, and to anyone who has created many cherished memories.

See youNEUTRINO

See You Again — Song: NEUTRINO (with lyrics)

This track is a cover by the AI singing synthesizer NEUTRINO of a graduation song created by Hiroshi Machida, who is also a nursery school principal.

By layering multiple voice libraries—such as Tohoku Kiritan, Tohoku Zunko, and Mellow—it achieves a crystal-clear, shimmering harmony.

The lyrics are sprinkled with gratitude for the energy and kindness received from friends, as well as everyday scenes from nursery life like hide-and-seek and mud dumplings, making it a listen that tightens the chest with emotion.

Though parting is sad, its forward-looking message—let’s start walking again while holding close our memories of spring, summer, autumn, and winter—speaks directly to both children and adults.

The original version was included on the compilation album “Congratulations on Graduation: Graduation Songs & Music Collection,” released in December 2017, cementing its place as a standard.

Consider using it as BGM for a slideshow or as a choral piece for a thank-you party.