Ranking of Popular Choral Songs [2026]

To tomorrowTomioka Hiroshi36rank/position

[Chorus] Toward Tomorrow (Mixed Three-Part)

This choral piece powerfully sings of hope and the challenge of stepping into the future.

Composed by Hiroshi Tomioka and released in 1996, it has become a popular song widely performed at junior high school chorus competitions.

It portrays young people moving forward, carried by the blue wind, undaunted by headwinds or storms.

The melody unfolds dramatically toward the latter half, stirring the emotions.

It’s a perfect song for anyone ready to take a step toward their dreams, so sing it with all your heart.

Peace on EarthSakushi: Tsurumi Masao / Sakkyoku: Ogikubo Kazuaki37rank/position

IN TERRA PAX Peace on Earth (from the mixed chorus suite “IN TERRA PAX Peace on Earth”)

A choral piece imbued with prayers for peace.

Its beautiful melody, quietly poised yet brimming with strength, and its rich harmonies fill the hall with emotion when sung with care, as if conveying heartfelt wishes.

As symbolized by the title, which means “Peace on Earth” in Latin, the work carries a universal message hoping for a world free of war and conflict.

Performed by choirs in various regions since the late 1990s and featured at peace memorial events and music festivals, it is a perfect piece for intermediate to advanced choral singers.

Just the way you areMatsui Takao38rank/position

[Choral Piece] You, Just As You Are / With Lyrics [81/200]

Composed in 1991 by musician Takao Matsui, the song Sono Mama no Kimi de has become a quintessential choral piece and a staple graduation song.

While it’s certainly common at graduation ceremonies and not unusual for graduates themselves to sing, its lyrics make it especially popular as a song presented by current students to the graduating class.

As a song to give and to receive, its pure words can move not only children and graduates to tears, but also adults, inspiring a return to one’s original, earnest feelings.

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utatane

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road; way; path; street; route; Tao (in philosophy)EXILE39rank/position

EXILE / Michi (Short Ver.)

This is a ballad that makes you want to express gratitude to the friends who stood by your side when you’re at a crossroads in life.

Released by EXILE in February 2007 as their 23rd single, the song warmly reflects on the days spent walking together, with themes of graduation and new departures.

It reached No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and became the 1,000th song in Oricon history to top the chart, marking a milestone.

It was featured in MTI’s “music.jp” commercial and selected by the National Karaoke Business Association as a recommended song for the graduation season, resonating with many listeners.

First included on the album “EXILE EVOLUTION,” it was later featured on releases such as “EXILE BALLAD BEST.” Loved as a staple performed at graduation ceremonies, a choral version was also produced.

When you and your dear friends begin to walk separate paths, it gives you the courage to move forward while holding your memories close.

Even when you’re apart, your hearts remain connected.

It’s a song that makes you feel exactly that.

BelieveLyrics and Composition: Sugimoto Ryūichi40rank/position

With Lyrics: BELIEVE [Three-Part Female Chorus]

A heartwarming choral piece by Ryuichi Sugimoto that sings of “support and hope for friends.” Its beautiful melodic line is striking, imbued with the warmth of standing by one another and the hope of walking into the future together.

The piece was used in 1998 as the ending theme for NHK’s nature documentary program “Ikimono Chikyū Kikō” (The Living Earth Travelogue), and later gained widespread recognition for its appeal as a choral work, becoming a staple at school events and choral competitions.

It’s a wonderful song that deepens bonds with friends by uniting voices as one—perfect for creating cherished memories with dear friends and companions.

ultramarineSakushi: Minamisōma Shiritsu Ogataka Chūgakkō Heisei Nijūyon Nendo Sotsugyōsei / Oda Miki / Sakkyoku: Nobunaga Takutomi41rank/position

Gunjou [Mixed Chorus, Four-Part Version]

A moving choral piece that unites the hearts of students separated by the Great East Japan Earthquake.

This gem was created by the 2012–2013 graduating class of Odaka Junior High School in Minamisoma City, Fukushima Prefecture, together with composer Takafumi Nobunaga.

The work powerfully yet poignantly gives voice to the feelings of students who were forced to live in evacuation.

In August 2013, a CD and score were released by Panamusica, and in August 2014 it was featured on Nippon TV’s “24-Hour Television,” where an inspiring joint performance by Kanjani Eight and the students was showcased.

Centered on themes of recovery from the disaster and the bonds that connect us, this song expresses hope for the future and is perfect for choral performances at school and cultural festivals.

It’s an ideal piece for bringing hearts together across classes and grades, sharing precious feelings through song.

sasanqua (Camellia sasanqua)SEKAI NO OWARI42rank/position

Sakanaction “Sazanka”

Sazanka, a classic graduation song by SEKAI NO OWARI, features memorable lyrics that feel directed at a friend who’s feeling down—or even at your future self when you’re feeling low.

With a simple, catchy melody characteristic of J-POP, it’s an easy song to sing.

While it has that J-POP flavor, it’s also a rare track that carries a touch of a children’s song.

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Ryo

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