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

HarukaYOASOBI

Haruka / YOASOBI [Mixed 3-Part Chorus] With Sheet Music (Arranged by Tae Hirai)

Released digitally in December 2020, this work by YOASOBI—known for their unique style of turning novels into music—was created based on Osamu Suzuki’s novel “Tsuki-Ouji” (Moon Prince).

The story is told from the perspective of a single mug, quietly watching over the growth of the girl who owns it.

The lyrics express deep gratitude toward the presence that was always closest, through both joyful days and difficult times—feelings that are sure to resonate with children at their graduation ceremonies.

It’s a fitting number for a new beginning, when you want to convey thanks to those who have supported you.

Best FriendKiroro

Kiroro – “Best Friend ~Mother Earth Version~” Trailer Video

“Best Friend,” with its memorable, emotional chorus, is a classic song often chosen as a graduation tune not only in elementary schools but also in junior high and high schools.

Its lyrics emphasize moving forward while cherishing the parting with friends, making it a song that gives you courage when you’re feeling down.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Ryo

Report a problem

Smile ~You Are Not Alone~shiori

EME-C3147 Smile ~You're Not Alone~ Booklet [Mixed Three-Part Chorus]

It’s a warm, encouraging song that gently stays close to your heart in tough or sad times.

Sung by Shiori, this piece carries a message that remembering the smile of someone dear can give you the courage to know you’re never alone.

Released as a single in May 2012, it’s also well known as the Studio Alice commercial song.

The track is included on the album “Partner.” To share this song, Shiori launched the “Hana no Shiori” project, visiting 100 schools across Japan by March 2013 to sing in chorus with students.

At the milestone of graduation, try singing it with gratitude for those who have supported you and with hope for the future.

The meaning of goodbyeNogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 16th 'The Meaning of Goodbye' Best Shot Version.

A song that teaches us that parting isn’t a sad ending, but a step toward the future.

Nogizaka46’s “Sayonara no Imi” captivates with lyrics that hold a forward-looking strength amid heartache, gently encouraging those who are setting off on new journeys.

Released in November 2016, this 16th single became the group’s first to sell over a million copies.

It’s also known for being performed by Nanami Hashimoto as center at the 67th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen, which was her final stage.

Its warm message—let’s not fear farewells, but cherish the miracle of having met—will surely resonate deeply with elementary school students graduating and moving on.

globeYonezu Kenshi

Globe – Kenshi Yonezu [Mixed Choir Arrangement]

Released in July 2023 as the theme song for Hayao Miyazaki’s film The Boy and the Heron, this single is also included on the album LOST CORNER.

Kenshi Yonezu created the track as an expression of his long-held admiration for the director.

Framing life as a long journey, the lyrics portray the strength to keep moving forward on one’s own feet, even through farewells and hardships—offering gentle support to children facing the significant milestone of graduation.

Beginning with a quiet piano and gradually building into a powerful, expansive sound, it delivers a moving experience well-suited to a graduation ceremony, where hope and uncertainty meet as new doors open.

It’s a song filled with a warm message that inspires the courage to take a step toward the future.

March 9Remioromen

Remioromen – March 9th (Music Video Short ver.)

Released in 2005, this song was used in the drama “1 Litre of Tears” and has remained a beloved staple among graduation songs for many years.

Due to the drama’s influence and the music video’s imagery, it’s often recommended as a song for high school students, but in reality many elementary schools likely sing it at their graduation ceremonies as well.

That’s how classic and widely cherished it is among graduates.

Since many low notes appear outside the chorus, carefully dividing parts in advance will be key to singing it well.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hane Keisuke

Report a problem

I’m glad I met you.Inoue Sonoko

Sonoko Inoue “I’m Glad I Met You” BOMBER-E LIVE

A number by Sonoko Inoue that makes you realize that ordinary, everyday life was an irreplaceable treasure.

It’s included on her first album, “Hello,” released in March 2016, and it drew attention as the theme song for the drama “Sakura Saku” and as a CM song for KKBOX.

It conveys the real feelings of Inoue herself when she was a high school senior, and it’s moving not only for its sense of loneliness but also for its gratitude for the encounters she had and its forward-looking message.

The warm yet refreshing sound woven by piano and strings beautifully colors graduation ceremonies where tears and smiles mingle.

It’s a song you’ll want to sing when you want to say a heartfelt ‘thank you’ to friends heading down different paths.