RAG MusicGraduation
A lovely graduation song

[Graduation Songs] Choral pieces perfect for singing at elementary school graduation ceremonies: A collection of moving classics

There are so many songs you might want to sing at a graduation ceremony—classic choir pieces, memorable songs you sang often in school—that it can be hard to choose.

In this article, we’ll introduce recommended songs for elementary school graduation ceremonies, focusing on choral works and popular J-POP graduation songs.

We’ve carefully selected pieces that perfectly fit the moment of leaving the familiar world of elementary school and taking a new step forward.

As you look back on your memories, choose wonderful songs that will color the children’s send-off!

[Graduation Songs] Choir pieces to sing at elementary school graduation ceremonies. A collection of moving masterpieces (81–90)

Light of Firefliesshouka

Familiar as a choral piece at celebrations such as graduation ceremonies and New Year’s events, as well as closing-time background music in stores, this song is based on the Scottish folk tune “Auld Lang Syne,” with Japanese lyrics added, and has become established as a song that laments parting.

Because the lyrics use archaic language, the meaning can be hard to grasp, but many people likely remember it just from the sound of the words, since it’s heard so often.

The content evokes memories of beautiful hometown scenery and time spent with friends there, so it might be nice to sing it while picturing those memories.

Sakuraayaka

Ayaka / “Sakura” (from the LIVE DVD & Blu-ray “Acoustic Live Tour 2017–2018 ~3-STAR RAW~”)
Sakuraayaka

Released in 2018 as her first graduation-themed song, this track created a big buzz.

The serene, beautiful piano accompaniment and Ayaka’s rich, resonant vocals make it a truly exquisite piece.

The lyrics portray the loneliness and bittersweet feelings of graduation, which I think directly resonate with what graduates themselves are experiencing.

With its calm, understated atmosphere, the song carries a slightly mature vibe—perfect for showcasing a more grown-up side.

cherry blossomFUNKY MONKEY BABYS

Released in 2009 as FUNKY MONKEY BABYS’ 10th single.

It also drew attention for featuring Yoshimi Tokui of Tutorial on the cover.

The song was used as the final theme for Nippon TV’s Yokohama International Women’s Ekiden, and its lyrics, which vividly express the mixed feelings of anticipation and anxiety that come with graduation, make it a moving track.

Cherry blossom seasonEXILE

EXILE ATSUSHI / “Cherry Blossom Season” MV
Cherry blossom seasonEXILE

ATSUSHI from EXILE released “Sakura no Kisetsu” in 2015 as a graduation song dedicated to all graduates.

The song was also aired on NHK’s Minna no Uta, making it a graduation song known across generations.

Without “graduation,” spring is a cheerful, exciting season, isn’t it? But for those about to graduate, spring feels different—filled with the sadness of parting from friends and anxieties about a new life.

This song stays close to those feelings and makes you believe that someday you’ll meet everyone again with a smile.

YELL ~Cheer~Kobukuro

“YELL” is characterized by a melody that’s quintessentially Kobukuro.

It’s striking how it starts quietly and gradually builds into a powerful arrangement.

The lyrics aren’t about mourning a parting; instead, they’re positive and forward-looking, making it a great song to listen to when you’re feeling down.