A roundup of anime works themed around music
Don’t you tend to watch anime that centers on things you like?
If you love camping, there are outdoor anime; if you’re into the Three Kingdoms or the Shinsengumi, there are historical anime… and there are plenty that focus on music, too!
In this article, we’ve rounded up works where music takes center stage.
From classical and idol songs to rock bands and wind ensembles, the lineup spans a wide range of genres.
Be sure to check out this article and find the anime that suits your taste!
A roundup of anime works themed around “music” (1–10)
Sound! Euphonium
The anime Sound! Euphonium focuses on high school concert band.
Based on a novel by Ayano Takeda, it’s a popular work that even received a film adaptation.
One of the show’s appeals is that the entire Kitauji High School Concert Band is the protagonist.
In other words, a lot of characters appear, and each has their own storyline, making it an ensemble drama.
Sometimes they laugh together, sometimes they fight—capturing a page from their youth.
Since it’s set in Uji City, Kyoto, those nearby might recognize some of the scenery.
Forest of Piano
Piano no Mori is the story of a boy who, through a piano abandoned in the forest, gradually blossoms into a prodigious pianist.
It’s a work by Makoto Isshiki that was serialized in Young Magazine Uppers and Morning.
It was adapted into an animated film in 2007, followed by a TV anime broadcast from 2018 to 2019.
The series features numerous classical pieces, including Puppy Waltz, Piano Sonata “Moonlight,” and Grand Valse Brillante.
It also depicts the real-life International Chopin Piano Competition, making it an especially thrilling work for piano and classical music fans.
Kids on the Slope
Set in Sasebo, Nagasaki Prefecture, in 1966, this work portrays the intricacies of human relationships through jazz music.
A notable feature is the inclusion of jazz standards performed within the story, such as “Moanin’” and “Someday My Prince Will Come,” making it a great entry point for those who want to start exploring jazz.
The protagonist, Kaoru Nishimi, plays the piano, while his partner of sorts, Sentaro Kawabuchi, is on drums.
Their jazz medley featuring a call-and-response between piano and drums is one of the film’s most memorable scenes.
Nodame Cantabile
Nodame Cantabile is based on a popular manga, and the TV drama starring Juri Ueno became a huge hit.
It was later adapted into films and expanded across various media—novels, games, and CDs—sparking a full-blown “Nodame craze.” The anime likewise won broad support, and many people say it inspired them to start listening to classical music.
The love story between Nodame, who aspires to be a pianist, and Chiaki, who aims to be a conductor, is totally heart-fluttering.
The beautiful classical music that plays at key moments really elevates the anime.
Highly recommended for classical music beginners!
Love Live!
This work follows Honoka Kousaka, the protagonist, who forms a school idol group to prevent the closure of her school, Otonokizaka Academy, and aims for “Love Live!”, the Koshien-like pinnacle of the scene.
Alongside a story that includes sports-like elements of trial and error on the path to their goal, a major appeal lies in the distinctive personalities of each member of the school idol group μ’s.
The many songs featured in the series are also captivating, ranging from quintessential idol anthems to tracks that reflect each member’s character, offering a wide musical spectrum.
The Super Dimension Fortress Macross
It was an anime so popular that it split robot-anime fans into two camps: “Gundam or Macross?” Centering on the story of “using the power of song to fight aliens,” its vivid portrayal of human relationships and romantic conflict moved the hearts of viewers.
Also noteworthy was how Lynn Minmay—voiced by Mari Iijima—was promoted like a real-life singer.
Iijima went on to leave many works as an artist.
The kind of direction we now often see—like live concert scenes appearing within an anime—may well have been pioneered by The Super Dimension Fortress Macross.
TARI TARI
TARI TARI is a story that portrays the growth of its members through the founding of a choir club and its activities.
Like P.A.WORKS’ True Tears and Hanasaku Iroha, it is often described as a youth-themed work.
The bittersweet essence of adolescence comes through strongly in the way the characters take steps to establish the choir club, gradually gain new companions, and overcome various struggles through their activities.
Another major highlight is the cast’s strong vocal ability, allowing viewers to fully appreciate the choral theme.