Yoshinao Nakada was a professional composer known as the author of children’s songs that virtually everyone in Japan has sung at least once in childhood, such as “Chiisai Aki Mitsuketa” (I Found a Little Autumn) and “Medaka no Gakkō” (The Medaka Fish School).
It’s said that he composed nearly 3,000 pieces over his lifetime, creating not only children’s songs but also school anthems, company songs, and songs for local governments.
He was also known as an educator, serving from 1953 as a lecturer in the Music Department of Ferris Junior College.
In this article, we present a ranking of Yoshinao Nakada’s most popular songs.
Why not listen with the feeling of returning to your childhood?
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Nakata Yoshinao Popular Songs Ranking [2026] (1–10)
Concert EtudeNakata Yoshinao1rank/position

Yoshinao Nakada’s Concert Etude is a captivating piece with a heart-stirringly beautiful melody and harmonies.
While the piece is designed so that even young elementary school children with small hands can play it, the key to performance lies not only in basic piano technique but also in a deep understanding of the music and expressive musicianship.
Rather than focusing solely on technical challenges, approach your practice by carefully studying the score so you can savor and convey the beauty of the changing harmonies and the songful character of the melody throughout the piece.
Dance and SongNakata Yoshinao2rank/position

This is a solo piano piece that begins with light 5/8-meter staccato and syncopation.
Rhythmic, dance-like elements alternate with an elegant singing melody, vividly capturing the exhilaration of a summer night and its serene afterglow.
Composed during the mature period of the composer, who served as a lecturer at Kobe Yamate Women’s Junior College in 1993, it is one of the most popular tracks among the 24 pieces included in the album “Children’s Dreams.” While incorporating Japanese-style elements, it possesses a universal appeal and is highly regarded as a recital repertoire.
It is recommended for those aiming to level up while enjoying piano performance, as it allows players to savor the beauty of melody and harmony while honing both technical skills and expressive depth.
Etude AllegroNakata Yoshinao3rank/position

This is a brilliant and lively piece included in the 1956 published sheet music collection “Children’s Piano Pieces.” Its defining feature is the unbroken stream of buoyant sixteenth notes, evoking the image of someone dashing energetically under the sun.
The climactic glissando sparkles like casting a rainbow, sure to captivate listeners in an instant.
This work is recommended for six-year-old children who are eager to take on a slightly more challenging piece.
It’s a delightful way to develop fast finger technique, and the sense of accomplishment upon finishing is exceptional!
Impromptu of the WindNakata Yoshinao4rank/position

One track included in the album “Children’s Dream” is striking for its refreshing melody that feels as if a breeze were blowing through.
Its light, flowing, and freely unfolding line is pleasing to the ear, and the use of glissando adds an appealing touch for recital performances.
This 1-minute-20-second miniature blends flowing phrases with delicate touch, fully drawing out the expressive power unique to the piano.
Selected as a required piece for the C Category of the 2011 PTNA Piano Competition, it is not only suitable for piano recitals, but also evokes the image of a fresh summer wind.
I found a little sign of autumn.Sakushi: Satou Hachirou/Sakkyoku: Nakata Yoshinao5rank/position

Beloved by children and adults alike, both now and in the past, the nursery song “Chiisai Aki Mitsuketa” (“I Found a Little Autumn”) was written by Hachirō Satō with music by Yoshinao Nakata.
It was created for a special NHK program broadcast in 1955.
It’s often sung as a choral piece as well.
For many older people, it’s a song everyone can sing or hum, isn’t it? Naturally, since the lyrics are about autumn, it’s perfect for November, and the melody, too, evokes the deepening season and a wistful autumn mood.
Cute Hide and SeekSakushi: Satou Hachirou/Sakkyoku: Nakata Yoshinao6rank/position

Just imagining little chicks, sparrows, and puppies playing in the yard or on the roof is heartwarming, isn’t it? Even when they think they’re hiding, you can glimpse a bit of a yellow foot or a brown head—this nursery song depicts such charming scenes.
With lyrics by Hachiro Sato and music by Yoshinao Nakata, its rhythmic flow captivates children and doesn’t let go.
After it was broadcast on an NHK radio program in January 1951, it spread across the country in no time.
Its contributions through record production and more were recognized with the Minister of Education Award at the 1952 Art Encouragement Prizes, showing just how big the response was at the time.
It’s also a staple as a hand-play song where you move your body along with the lyrics.
On a warm spring day, try singing it with your child, as if you’re playing hide-and-seek.
motherSakushi: Tanaka Nana / Sakkyoku: Nakada Yoshinao7rank/position

The children’s song “Okaasan” (Mother), perfect for Mother’s Day, sings about a kind mother.
The child tells their mother she smells nice and realizes that the scent comes from the household chores she does every day for them.
A mother filled with such lovely scents deserves nothing but gratitude! How about trying to do some of those chores yourself on Mother’s Day? She will surely be happy—not only because you help with the chores, but also because she can see how you’re growing by taking the initiative.


