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

Goodbye until we meet again.Sakushi: Murata Sachiko / Sakkyoku: Shiraishi Tetsuya

Goodbye until we meet again.

It’s a choral piece that reflects on the seasons spent with dear ones and expresses the loneliness of parting.

While it evokes a farewell greeting, it also conveys a positive view of setting off—cherishing the memories built up and pledging to meet again.

The promise of reunion suggests that parting is not only about sadness.

It feels like a song that can support the sorrow felt at graduation, while also teaching the joy of looking forward to meeting again.

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Kitearashi

ARASHI – Kite [Official Music Video]

Sung by Arashi, one of Japan’s leading artists, this song delivers an encouraging message to the younger generation who will shape the future.

It also drew attention for having been written and composed by Kenshi Yonezu.

The lyrics evoke childhood memories and a determination to move forward into the future, conveying a powerful drive toward one’s dreams.

As the song progresses, the sound grows stronger and more grand, imparting a sense of the view ahead opening up before you.

It’s a perfect fit for a graduation ceremony—an ideal moment of stepping into the future—and it may well inspire listeners to face their own dreams.

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the world of dreamssakushi: furō akiko / sakkyoku: hashimoto shōji

the world of dreams

Memories of treading on fallen leaves, an avenue bathed in the glow of the setting sun, the chirping of small birds, and the clear scene of a babbling brook.

Interweaving these tangible touches of nature, this song calls on friends to share their dreams together.

Born from an NHK music program in the 1970s and later arranged as a choral piece, it was composed by Yoshimichi Hashimoto, who, while deeply involved in creating educational materials at Kyoiku Geijutsu Sha, left behind many works that balance singability with evocative imagery.

Its gentle, swaying 6/8 rhythm naturally supports a sense of walking and the flow of scenery, and the structure—expanding from unison in the first half to full chorus in the latter—is a highlight.

It is a song that quietly encourages children to take a new step on the special day of graduation, as they look back on memories with their friends.

Go beyondSakushi Sakkyoku: Yugeda Kensuke

Choral Song “Go Beyond” | A Graduation Song for Spring 2026 (with Lyrics)

One song often cited as deeply moving for elementary school graduation ceremonies is “Koete Yuke.” Written and composed by Kensuke Yugeda, this classic is sung by many graduates.

Its lyrics weave together the mixed emotions of parting—loneliness, anxiety, and hope—giving children courage.

At this major milestone of graduation, the gentle melody softly nudges children stepping into a new world, powerfully supporting their first steps toward the future.

When graduation comes, let this song help you make a fresh start at heart.

Thank youikimonogakari

Ikimonogakari 'Arigatou' Music Video

From everyday, casual “thank yous” to life-changing, heartfelt expressions of gratitude, the lyrics are strikingly rich with appreciation.

Released in 2010, this song was written as the theme for the NHK morning drama Gegege no Nyobo.

Boosted by the drama’s popularity, it became a major hit, reaching No.

2 on the Oricon charts.

It’s a perfect choice for moments when you want to convey your feelings to someone important—such as at graduation ceremonies or whenever you want to say thank you.

Its memorable lyrics and warm melody will gently wrap your feelings in kindness.

Letter ~To You, Fifteen~Anjura Aki

Angela Aki “Letter ~Dear You, Fifteen~” Official Music Video (HD)

When it comes to songs that resonate during graduation season, this work by Angela Aki stands out.

Framed as a letter to her 15-year-old self, it delivers a powerful message of encouragement to young people grappling with the pains and anxieties of youth.

Accompanied by gentle piano tones, her warm vocals sink deeply into the heart.

Released in September 2008, it was also selected as the set piece for NHK’s All-Japan School Music Competition.

In addition, it was featured in commercials for Japan Post Group and Kansai Electric Power, capturing the hearts of many.

It’s a song that gives you the courage to believe in yourself when graduating or taking a new step in life.

Even when facing difficulties, it will give you the strength to keep moving forward without losing hope.

In place of wingsSakushi Sakkyoku: Yugeda Kensuke

Elementary School Graduation Song | Turning into Wings (Two-Part Unison Choir)

At today’s graduation ceremonies, it has become normal to choose so-called kayōkyoku—pop songs that reflect the “real generational perspective” popular in the era we lived through—as our graduation songs and sing them.

But I think it’s also good to turn our attention again to those pieces considered true classics.

The song “Tsubasa ni Kaete” is one such classic graduation song.

Its lyrics, brimming with gratitude addressed to friends, seniors, and others—saying, “I was able to do my best because you were always with me”—are straightforward and unadorned.

The metaphor, “From here on I will take flight, turning my many feelings of thanks into wings,” is very gentle as well.

Even without singing it as a two-part chorus, I believe the feeling of gratitude will still come through.