Ranking of Popular Choral Songs [2026]

365 Days’ Paper AirplaneAKB4843rank/position

Paper Airplane of 365 Days / AKB48

AKB48’s “365-Day Paper Airplane” is also highly popular as a middle and high school choir piece.

The song became widely known across all age groups—not just among young people—after being used as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Asa ga Kita,” and it became a big hit.

It’s also a favorite karaoke number regardless of gender.

If you’re going to perform it as a choral piece, it’s great to choose something widely recognized.

This song conveys the clarity and freshness unique to a female group, making it a perfect choice for a women’s choir.

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utatane

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KanadeSukima Suichi44rank/position

Sukima Switch – “Kanade” Music Video : SUKIMASWITCH / KANADE Music Video

This song is a beautiful ballad that portrays parting with someone dear and the wish to stay connected at heart beyond that farewell.

Released by Sukima Switch in March 2004 as their second single, it features a sentimental sound centered on piano and guitar that truly resonates.

It was used as an insert song for the film “Rough,” the theme song for the drama “Sotsu Uta,” and in 2006 was selected as the ending theme for the final day of “Netto Koshien.” The protagonist’s earnest desire to reach someone through voice and song even when apart mirrors the feelings of junior high school students facing the milestone of graduation.

It’s a track that, while looking back on days with friends, makes you want to cherish those bonds going forward.

Sung as a chorus, it would surely fill the entire venue with warm tears.

Ballad of the MonstersTōkairin Osamu45rank/position

Ballad of the Kaiju [Chorus] With Lyrics

It’s an old song that was introduced in the form of a chorus performance on the NHK music program “Stage 101” in 1972.

It’s a piece that brings to mind tokusatsu films from that era, like Ultraman.

Since it was originally composed with a chorus in mind, it fits beautifully when arranged for choir.

The piano accompaniment has a funky vibe, so it might be nice to give it a slightly playful, high-spirited finish.

The shout at the end has a youthful feel, which is great.

The original track is cool too, so give it a listen.

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Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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Flowers will bloom.hana wa saku purojekuto46rank/position

Flowers Will Bloom (Two-Part Chorus)

“Hana wa Saku” (Flowers Will Bloom) was produced as a charity song to support recovery from the Great East Japan Earthquake.

The Hana wa Saku Project—formed by celebrities, singers, and athletes from the affected areas—released it in 2012.

Its gentle melody, imbued with warmth, pairs beautifully with the radiant sound of a women’s chorus.

The choral textures that unfold from the main soprano line create a splendid harmony.

Why not sing it with heartfelt emotion, inspired by lyrics that evoke hope for the future?

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mutō

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Please give me wingsMurai Kunihiko47rank/position

Please give me wings - chorus

“Tsubasa wo Kudasai,” composed by Kunihiko Murai, is a masterpiece that sets a powerful longing for freedom to a beautiful melody.

Since its release in 1971, this song has continued to be cherished by people of all ages, and it’s often sung at pivotal moments in life, such as graduation ceremonies.

Its lyrics, which express universal themes, are sure to resonate with your heart.

The simple accompaniment and harmonies make it perfect for choral singing, uniting everyone’s feelings into one.

When you’re feeling lost in life or about to take a new step forward, try recalling this song.

Smile AgainMari Nakayama48rank/position

Choral Piece “Smile Again”

This is a heartwarming choral piece that gives you the courage to face life’s hardships.

Written and composed by Mari Nakayama, it was released by Ongaku no Tomo Sha in June 1997.

The lyrics depict the feelings of “I feel so small…”—a struggle that resonated with many—and the piece drew attention when it was used in the 2008 film “The Happy Family Plan: A Classroom with a Pig” (Buta ga Ita Kyōshitsu).

Told from children’s perspectives, the lyrics gently convey the importance of self-acceptance.

Sung at graduations, farewell ceremonies, and other moments of new beginnings, it will comfort listeners and give them the courage to look ahead.

It’s a perfect song for an elementary school graduation!

To You — A Message for Your DepartureSakushi Sakkyoku: Tsutsui Masako49rank/position

[High Quality Audio] To You: A Message for Your Departure

Masako Tsutsui, an elementary school teacher, created “To You—A Message for Your Departure” for her graduating students.

It is one of the pieces in the mixed-chorus suite Goddess of Time.

The lyrics carry a powerful message: no matter how difficult life may become, the experiences you gained during your school years will surely support you.

From the middle of the piece, the melody moves forward with a syncopated rhythm, so it’s important not to lose track of the beat.

Feel the flow well as you sing.

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SAKI

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