[Elementary School Music] List of Popular and Nostalgic Songs That Have Appeared in Textbooks
Do you remember the songs you sang in elementary school music class or the pieces you played on the recorder?
Songs learned in childhood are deeply engraved in our memories, and sometimes a fragment of the melody pops into your head out of the blue.
In this article, we’ll introduce songs that were featured in elementary school textbooks, as well as pieces that are still included today.
From nostalgic children’s songs to recent J-pop, the genres are diverse.
Of course, you can simply listen and reminisce, but it’s also great to listen with family or friends and let the conversation bloom with memories!
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[Elementary School Music] List of Popular and Nostalgic Songs Featured in Textbooks (11–20)
Country RoadHon’na Yoko
The theme song “Country Road” from Studio Ghibli’s popular animated film Whisper of the Heart is based on American singer John Denver’s “Take Me Home, Country Roads.” Not only is it used as the movie’s theme, but there are also scenes where the characters sing it.
It has been covered by many artists and is often used in various contexts, so even those who haven’t seen the film are likely familiar with the tune.
You can emulate the world of the movie by using a variety of instruments, or keep it simple by playing the melody on a recorder or melodica and adding rhythm with another instrument.
Adjust the arrangement to match your child’s experience with instruments and try different patterns!
Let’s dance in a circle (Wasshoi)V6
A classic hit originally sung by V6 that became a major success and has since been covered by many artists.
Its rhythmic, catchy melody and lyrics that feel like an invitation to “let’s all dance together” are especially memorable.
Released in July 1997, the song was also featured on NHK’s “Minna no Uta,” winning the hearts of listeners across generations, from children to the elderly.
It was even performed at the closing ceremony of the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics, showing its appeal on the international stage.
Often used in elementary school music classes, sports days, and other school events, it’s a magical song that naturally brings a smile to your face when you sing it.
I want to become the wind.THE BOOM
A heart-pounding track that blends samba rhythms with Japanese lyrics.
Released by THE BOOM in March 1995, this song grabs listeners’ hearts and never lets go.
The lyrics, simple yet profound, sing of a universal theme: no matter the circumstances, happiness is possible as long as you’re with the one you love.
Combining a refreshing vibe that blows away the summer heat with a message that resonates deeply, this piece is perfect for fun moments like summer drives or barbecues by the beach.
Earth Star SongSakushi sakkyoku: Mimasu
A heartwarming choral piece that radiates a presence as grand as a planet.
Written and composed by Mimasu, it carries a message that people around the world are connected.
Celebrating peace and a love for nature, the work was released in the early 2000s and remains widely beloved today in school music classes and choral competitions.
There’s an anecdote that Mimasu’s experiences on a trip around the world inspired the lyrics and melody in about 30 minutes, and it’s said that memories of a rainbow seen on the Trans-Siberian Railway are reflected in the lyrics.
Princess MononokeMera Yoshikazu
A film theme song distinguished by its clear, translucent high notes.
It is a gem woven from Hayao Miyazaki’s beautiful poetry and Joe Hisaishi’s grand music.
Released alongside the film in July 1997, it became a major talking point as the ending theme that colors the movie’s climax.
The lyrics brilliantly capture the story’s worldview, and Yoshikazu Mera’s pure, crystalline voice resonates deeply with listeners.
Symbolically portraying the relationship between nature and humanity and the conflicts within, this piece is recommended for moments when you want to calm your mind.
Why not immerse yourself in its magnificent world?
rainbow
The children’s song “Niji” (Rainbow), sung in kindergartens and nursery schools and included in elementary school music textbooks, is a classic created by singer-songwriters Toshihiko Shinzawa and Hirotaka Nakagawa.
It celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2020 and has been sung by many children over the years.
Many adults have probably heard it too, as children often sing it and it’s been used in commercials.
Its simple melody and lyrics that look to the future really touch the heart when you listen.
[Elementary School Music] List of Popular and Nostalgic Songs That Have Appeared in Textbooks (21–30)
Flower of Thanks
This is a song that conveys gratitude in a way that leaves a deep impression on children’s hearts.
Since it was featured on NHK Educational TV’s popular program “Okaasan to Issho” in October 2009, it has come to be widely sung in music classes at kindergartens, nursery schools, and elementary schools.
Set to a bright and cheerful melody, the key point is how it communicates the importance of the word “thank you.” The lyrics depict gratitude spreading throughout the town, warming the hearts of those who listen.
It is often sung at graduation ceremonies and school events, and by holding hands and singing together, it fosters a sense of camaraderie and unity.