[Graduation Songs] Graduation songs featuring captivating piano tones! Introducing Japanese songs perfect for piano-and-vocal performances
With graduation ceremonies approaching, many of you might be looking for music that leaves a lasting impression.
The delicate tones of the piano gently embrace both the sadness of parting and the excitement for a new beginning.
Among graduation songs, there are countless masterpieces where the piano takes center stage and amplifies the emotion many times over.
Whether you’re choosing BGM for a ceremony or want to perform something yourself to create lasting memories, piano pieces are a special option.
In this article, we’ll introduce Japanese songs brimming with the charm of the piano—perfect for this milestone called graduation.
We’ve gathered pieces that are approachable even for those who want to try singing and playing the piano, so be sure to find your favorite one!
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[Graduation Songs] Graduation songs with captivating piano tones! Introducing recommended Japanese songs perfect for piano-and-vocal performances (21–30)
To the futureKiroro
Speaking of Kiroro’s graduation songs—known for many classics with piano accompaniment—their 1998 single Mirai e (To the Future) stands out.
It reached No.
4 on the Oricon Singles Chart and is even included in junior high and high school music textbooks.
It’s also widely known as a staple for choir competitions, graduation ceremonies, and weddings.
While Ayano Kinjo’s piano provides a simple accompaniment, you can really feel her solid technique in the performance.
There’s also a 2006 remix version, so try comparing the two!
CorrectRADWIMPS
“Seikai” was written specifically for NHK’s “RADWIMPS 18-sai” and premiered on the program.
The song captures the feelings of the 18-year-old generation, and the take featuring a massive sing-along with 1,000 participants is included on the album “ANTI ANTI GENERATION.” After the broadcast, many requested to sing it at graduation ceremonies, leading to the production of a choral version.
The piano performed by Yojiro Noda, who wrote the lyrics and composed the music, provides a moving, masterful accompaniment.
[Graduation Songs] Graduation songs featuring the charm of piano tones! Introducing recommended Japanese tracks perfect for singing with piano (31–40)
one’s true feelingssumika
This is a song by sumika that was also selected as the support song for the 99th All Japan High School Soccer Tournament.
It’s characterized by a gentle atmosphere with a prominent piano tone, which seems to further highlight the vocals.
The lyrics are notable for looking back on memories of encouraging one another and expressing renewed gratitude.
Conveying a warmth that reflects on all the steps taken so far while wishing for a bright future for each other, it feels like a perfect fit for a graduation ceremony.
Sakura Lovemosao.
Based on a high school girl’s story, “Sakura-koi” by Mosawo is a graduation song.
Released in 2021 as a digital single, it was produced through a collaboration project with LINE MUSIC.
The poignant lyrics, about reaching graduation without being able to confess one’s feelings, are especially striking.
The piano accompaniment is simple yet supportive of the vocals and is featured in various sections, such as the opening and the ending.
In particular, the A-melody accompaniment also includes a Mellotron, giving it a cute, charming feel.
Friend ~Time of Departure~yuzu
Yuzu’s song “Tomo ~Tabidachi no Toki~” was featured on NHK’s Minna no Uta and selected as the required piece for the 80th NHK National School Music Competition.
The lyrics, which sing about friends who become separated at graduation, are heartrending.
It reached No.
5 on the Oricon singles chart.
It was originally written for the staff involved in their tour after the Great East Japan Earthquake.
The powerful piano accompaniment, which seems to support one’s resolve for the future, also really hits home.
cherry blossom colorAnjura Aki
Created by Angela Aki, who draws on both Japanese and American cultures, this work is a positive ballad that reflects on her youth in her second hometown, Washington, D.C.
The delicate piano tones are striking, and the emotional chorus resonates deeply.
Released in March 2007, it was also featured in a commercial for Sony’s Cyber-shot T series.
It weaves a story of love, parting, and growth, offering the courage to look forward while reflecting on the past.
It’s a song we highly recommend to those facing graduation or a turning point in life.
GraduationKobukuro
Kobukuro, known for singing many graduation songs, released “Sotsugyo” in 2020, adding it to their repertoire of graduation tunes.
It reached No.
3 on the Oricon singles chart.
The music video incorporates numerous clips submitted by users through a TikTok campaign.
Its simple melody, featuring long tones and repeated notes, paired with the duo’s beautiful harmonies, makes it perfect for choral singing.
The piano that supports the track is also powerfully melodic, much like an accompaniment for a choir.