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.

ariosoJ.S.Bach

J.S.Bach – Arioso from Cantata BWV 156 – Adagio

A gentle, long-breathed melody that quietly seeps into the heart.

Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach, its singing solo line is so beautiful that, in later generations, it came to be cherished on its own as an “aria-like instrumental piece.” The melodies voiced by oboe and strings transcend words, softly stirring feelings of prayer and comfort.

A staple at weddings and memorials, this work is also perfect for diploma presentations and exit scenes at graduation ceremonies.

Its walking-paced tempo and understated yet resolute emotion quietly bless a new beginning.

Thank you with a smileLyrics and Composition: Daichi Nagai

Graduation song “Thank You with a Smile” Nursery Tsuzuki – kindergarten graduation song

On the occasion of the graduation ceremony, why not express your gratitude to your parents, teachers, and friends? The perfect song for that is “Egao de Arigatou” (“Thank You with a Smile”).

Saying thank you at the time of parting can make you feel a bit sad, can’t it? But with this song, as the title suggests, you can share your thanks with a smile.

The lyrics include parts that thank parents for taking you to and from kindergarten or nursery school, making the whole song easy to relate to.

While singing, it might also be nice to look back on everything that’s happened up to now.

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yamamoto

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Album of MemoriesSakushi: Masuko Toshi / Sakkyoku: Honda Tetsumaro

Album of Memories

There is a classic song that has been sung for many years as a staple of kindergarten graduation ceremonies.

The lyricist, Toshi Masuko, was an early childhood educator who studied at a Christian teacher-training school, while the composer, Tetsumaro Honda, was the principal of a kindergarten attached to a Buddhist temple—two people with different religious backgrounds who collaborated to create the piece.

The lyrics gently recount memories of time spent at the kindergarten in each of the four seasons—spring, summer, autumn, and winter—from a child’s perspective.

It first appeared in a book on childcare practice in 1961, and in 1981 a version performed by the vocal group Dark Ducks was broadcast on NHK’s “Minna no Uta,” bringing it nationwide recognition.

In 2006, it was selected for the “100 Best Japanese Songs.” Its calm 6/8 melody is easy for young children to sing, and the call-and-response style between teachers and children is also enjoyable.

It’s a perfect piece for the climax of a graduation ceremony or as background music for a slideshow of memories.

Youth PhotographLittle Glee Monster

[Little Glee Monster] Youth Photograph [Litoguri]

When it comes to graduation songs, many tend to be somber and mellow, but this one is a very lively and upbeat number.

Little Glee Monster’s “Seishun Photograph” is their second single, released in 2015, and as the title suggests, it’s a graduation song with a photo theme.

It’s a track that makes you want to preserve the fun days you had at school in pictures.

Be sure to capture both your tearful and smiling faces with the camera.

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utatane

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Please give me wingsSakushi: Yamagami Michio / Sakkyoku: Murai Kunihiko

Please give me wings

This is a timeless folk song beloved across generations.

The lyricist, Michio Yamagami, is known for depicting everyday scenes in unadorned language, and in this piece, the simple wish to take to the sky resonates deeply.

The music was composed by Kunihiko Murai, and the song was released in February 1971 as a single by Akaitori.

It was later included in school textbooks and spread nationwide as a choral piece, and it has been cherished in many settings, from being sung as a support song for Japan’s national soccer team to performances at the Nagano Olympics.

Cover versions by Kaori Kawamura and Junko Yamamoto also drew attention, reaching a wide range of listeners.

It’s perfect for preschool graduation ceremonies as background music for slideshows or as a recessional.

The song has a warmth that gently encourages children as they step into a new world.

The Color of Thank YouSakushi Sakkyoku: Baku-san

[Graduation Song] [Recital Song] The Color of Thank You [Sheet Music & CD Available] A moving, tear-jerking piece perfect for graduation ceremonies, school plays, end-of-term presentations, farewell parties, and thank-you gatherings. Ideal for nursery schools, kindergartens, certified childcare centers, and elementary schools. Piano entrance and exit music.

Baku’s graduation song is a warm piece that stays close to children’s hearts.

With gratitude as its theme, it gently expresses both the sadness of parting and hope for the future.

Its simple piano accompaniment and easy-to-sing melody make it perfect for graduation and farewell ceremonies.

It’s also notable for being composed in a key suited to children so they can sing along together.

Widely used in preschools and kindergartens across the country, it’s highly practical as well.

The moving lyrics will surely become a cherished memory for the children and their families.

How about singing it together with children who are about to graduate?

Song of BeginningsGReeeeN

GReeeeN – Song of Beginnings

A song by GReeeeN characterized by warm, compassionate lyrics and a refreshing melody.

As an anthem cheering on those taking a new step, it has resonated with many.

While cherishing past memories, it carries a positive message about moving toward the future, gently giving listeners a supportive push.

It was also featured as Able’s 2016 spring commercial song, becoming a source of comfort for people starting new lives.

Recommended for those standing at a new stage in life—such as graduations, school entrance ceremonies, or starting a job.

Listening to this song may turn your anxieties into hope.