[For Seniors] Songs to Sing in Refreshing May When the Fresh Green Shines
In May, the fresh greenery becomes beautiful and makes you feel like going out.
In this article, we introduce songs perfect for May that are recommended for seniors.
We’ve gathered a variety of songs, including “Koinobori,” which is filled with seasonal lyrics, songs perfect for Mother’s Day, and bright, lively tunes you’ll want to listen to when going out.
Sing songs that suit May and deepen your sense of the season.
It’s said that using your voice enriches both mind and body, so why not incorporate singing into music recreation at senior facilities?
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[For Seniors] Songs You’ll Want to Sing in Refreshing, Lush May (11–20)
This roadSakushi: Kitahara Hakushū / Sakkyoku: Yamada Kōsaku
This classic that portrays the beauty of Japan’s changing seasons is a masterpiece of lyrical song, with music by Kósçak Yamada set to a poem by Hakushū Kitahara.
Its bright, gentle melody and vividly scenic lyrics blend in perfect harmony.
The soothing, healing tone of the piece reminds us of the joy of singing.
Since its release in 1927 in a recording by Yoshie Fujiwara, it has continued to be loved by many.
It’s an ideal song for a music recreation activity everyone can enjoy together.
Why not spend a heartwarming moment sharing fond memories as you listen?
The Wheat SongNakajima Miyuki
This heartwarming song by Miyuki Nakajima begins with the emotive sound of Scottish bagpipes, into which Japanese lyrical melodies gently blend.
Tenderly singing of life abroad, farewells to loved ones, and hope for new beginnings, it offers a profound exploration of life’s subtleties.
Released in October 2014, the song was written as the theme for the NHK morning drama “Massan,” musically illuminating the true story of the couple who helped give birth to Japanese whisky.
It was also performed at the 65th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen that same year, moving many viewers.
How about humming it together during music recreation time? Its gentle tune and deep lyrics are sure to resonate with your heart.
Koi in the pondMonbushō shōka
This is a Ministry of Education school song that can be enjoyed while picturing the refreshing scenery of the season.
The gentle way it addresses the carp swimming in the pond brings a sense of calm and warmth.
Included in May 1911 in “Elementary School Songs for the First Grade,” this piece has been loved for many years for its bright, friendly melody and soothing lyrics.
It has appeared in music textbooks and has been passed down through school education.
It will surely resonate in your heart along with nostalgic memories.
Singing it with older adults may revive happy memories from the past and naturally spark conversation.
It’s an ideal song for music activities in care facilities.
The Highland Train GoesOkamoto Atsurō
A song that gracefully celebrates the natural beauty of the highlands and the romance of train travel evokes heartwarming memories of family trips and brings to mind wonderful moments with loved ones.
Its sweeping scenery and romantic spirit are sure to soothe anyone’s heart.
Carried by Atsuro Okamoto’s comforting vocals, the pastoral landscapes gently resonate within.
Since its release in 1954, this work has continued to be beloved by many and was featured in the 2020 NHK morning drama series “Yell,” moving audiences across generations.
It’s perfect for a time of sharing old memories over tea with everyone.
Settle in, relax, and enjoy a peaceful moment.
A Ballad Dedicated to My MotherKaientai
This is a song whose warm vocals seep into the heart, evoking memories of one’s mother.
Many listeners will relate to how the members of Kaientai weave gentle words to express gratitude to their parents.
The quietly conversational singing style blends beautifully with the heartwarming melody.
Released in December 1973 and reaching No.
10 on the Oricon chart, the song also appeared on the NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen the following year.
It was included on the album “Bōkyō-hen” and won the Planning Award at the Japan Record Awards.
It’s an ideal piece for music recreation in care facilities.
Humming along with older adults can create a lovely time to share each person’s cherished memories.
On a calm May day, we hope everyone will enjoy this song together.
Farewell in MayInoue Yosui
As we welcome this refreshing season, we’d like to introduce a work in which Yosui Inoue’s lyrical melodies resonate in the heart.
Its gentle tune and lyrics interwoven with landscapes carry a clear, breezy feeling—almost like breathing in the air of May—and are perfect for the fresh green season.
Delicately portraying the transition from spring to early summer, the song’s tender vocals evoke nostalgic memories, from wedding scenes to stars in the night sky.
Released in March 1993, it was also included on the album “UNDER THE SUN,” which came out the same year.
Used in a Kirin Beer commercial, it became a memorable song for many.
Why not enjoy reminiscing together with older adults through music while feeling the calm flow of time? It’s a wonderful piece that promises a heartwarming moment.
[For Seniors] Songs You’ll Want to Sing in Refreshing, Verdant May (21–30)
Mother’s SongSakushi Sakkyoku: Kubota Satoshi
The second Sunday of May is Mother’s Day.
Although it started as a custom in the United States, it has taken root in Japan as a day to express gratitude to mothers.
It’s common to show appreciation, acknowledge their hard work, and give carnations as a gift.
In Japan, the first song that comes to mind depicting a mother is “Kāsan no Uta” (Mother’s Song).
It portrays a mother who works hard for her child and speaks to them with kindness, conveying a mother’s warmth in a straightforward way.
With its gentle atmosphere, the song invites listeners to reflect deeply on their gratitude toward their mothers.
