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

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.

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.

Promise of SunflowersHata Motohiro

Promise of Sunflowers [from the 25th Owariasahi Children’s Choir Regular Concert]

Written specifically as the theme song for the film “STAND BY ME Doraemon,” this piece became one of Motohiro Hata’s signature works.

Released as a single in August 2014, it is also included on the albums “Ao no Kōkei” and “All Time Best Hata Motohiro.” Many listeners were surely moved by lyrics that portray the warmth of someone who stays by your side and bonds that remain unchanged even when apart.

The melody, widely loved as the song for an NTT West commercial and more, is so famous that everyone can hum along.

This song, which makes you realize that the casual moments spent with friends are true treasures, is a perfect choice for graduation ceremonies to say “thank you” to teachers and classmates who have supported you.

GraduationKobukuro

Kobukuro “Graduation”

A number created by the duo Kobukuro as a song they want people graduating to sing at their commencement.

The music video was produced by combining videos gathered on TikTok, mainly featuring students who were graduating in 2020.

The overflowing feelings toward graduation are expressed through the kind of passionate words that only Kobukuro can deliver.

The melody is simple and easy enough for elementary school students to sing, yet the intensity packed into the lyrics matches the passion felt in the hearts of sixth graders who are graduating.

As you sing, try to recall the many scenes of your elementary school where you spent so much time.

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SAKI

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Hymn to the EarthSatō Makoto

Hymn to the Earth (with lyrics)

This “Hymn to the Earth” (Daichi Sansho) was written by Atsuo Oki with music by Makoto Sato and created in 1962.

It has been sung for many years as a graduation song—a timeless classic of the genre.

It is also well known as a choral piece for elementary and junior high schools.

The lyrics may seem very simple, but when performed as a chorus with soprano, alto, tenor, and bass intertwining, it has great depth and is truly moving.

It carries a sense of grandeur, and it’s easy to see why it has been cherished as a graduation song through the years.

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utatane

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Please give me wingsakai tori

Please give me wings

You want to sing a song at graduation that gives you the courage to look up at the sky and face forward, right? “Tsubasa wo Kudasai” (“Please Give Me Wings”), a song loved by many, is perfect for moments like that.

Ever since Akai Tori released it in 1971, its unique and beautiful lyrics and melody have supported people of all ages, both adults and children.

Why not sing this song at your graduation ceremony—a song that gives you the courage to take off from the school you’ve attended and jump into a free, unknown world?

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mutō

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At any timeYugeda Kensuke

[Lyrics Video] Donnatokimo (Alto) — Vocals: Oita City Matsuoka Elementary School Music Club

Set to a gentle melody that feels familiar to everyone, Kensuke Yugeda’s song expresses gratitude at the milestone age of ten.

It warmly conveys precious memories with friends and heartfelt thanks to family and teachers.

Its tender, embracing tune resonates deeply with listeners and invites empathy.

The piece is included on the album “Dream & Dream: Yume o Tsunagou,” and it has been selected for inclusion in elementary school music textbooks starting in 2024.

Mr.

Yugeda, who holds school concerts nationwide, has performed over 2,000 times and continues composing with children in mind.

It is a song you’ll want to sing with care when expressing gratitude to important people, such as at a “Half-Coming-of-Age Ceremony” or end-of-year school events.