[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 tunes with captivating piano tones! Introducing Japanese songs perfect for piano-and-vocal performances (41–50)
Cherry Blossom MoonSakurazaka46
Sakura-zuki, which captures the bittersweetness of graduation and the excitement of a new beginning, is a moving song delivered by Sakurazaka46.
The piano tones evoke cherry blossom petals drifting down in a blanket, while the ticking clock at the start symbolizes time slipping away.
Throughout the song, unspoken, delicate feelings of first love are conveyed through a sensitive melody that suits both solo piano-vocal performances and choral arrangements.
It’s a heartfelt recommendation for the graduation season, especially for those parting with friends and carrying hopes for the future.
Tomoë GakuenFukuyama Masaharu
Tomoe Gakuen is a song written by Masaharu Fukuyama as the theme for the drama Totto-chan!, which depicts the life of renowned female host Tetsuko Kuroyanagi.
Released in 2017 as Fukuyama’s third digital-only single, Tomoe Gakuen takes its title from Kuroyanagi’s alma mater.
The song embodies the “longing for freedom” that Fukuyama felt from Kuroyanagi.
The piano accompaniment, which shifts restlessly like a film score that follows the song, expands the listener’s sense of the world.
Departure; a new beginning (literally “setting out from the gate,” often used for life’s new chapters such as starting a journey, marriage, or a new phase)Sasayama Taiyo
Singer-songwriter Taiyo Sasayama, who is also active as a member and leader of mic-alone and energetically provides songs to a variety of artists.
His 9th single, “Kadode,” features a piano-led band ensemble that evokes a moving, heartrending poignancy.
The lyrics, which depict parting from a dear friend, feel not only sorrowful but also filled with gratitude and a determination to take a new step forward.
It’s an emotional number—be sure to check out the piano version included as the coupling track as well.
road; way; path; street; route; Tao (in philosophy)EXILE
When it comes to EXILE’s ballads themed around graduation and setting off on a new journey, “Michi (Road)” comes to mind.
Released as a single in 2007, it reached No.
1 on the Oricon Singles Chart.
It was also featured as the theme for the second night of Fuji TV’s four-night drama series “Sotsu Uta” in 2010.
The lyrics, which sing about lovers being separated by graduation, are truly heartrending.
The piano accompaniment in the A melody, built on an arpeggiated pattern using the most standard eighth notes, firmly supports ATSUSHI’s vocals.
Cherry blossom seasonEXILE ATSUSHI
The graduation song written and composed by EXILE’s ATSUSHI is “Sakura no Kisetsu.” It reached No.
3 on the Oricon Singles Chart and was also selected as the required piece for the junior high school division of the 81st NHK Nationwide School Music Competition.
The song reflects ATSUSHI’s wish for listeners to “carry hope and face the future.” In the first verse, only piano and strings are used, and the dramatic accompaniment that supports the vocals is particularly captivating.