[Elementary School Chorus Songs] A comprehensive showcase from moving masterpieces to the latest hit tunes!

Green Tiger

N-Con Required Piece 2023, Elementary School Division: “Green Tiger” — Both Parts

A dramatic choral piece that feels like reading a story, “Midori no Tora” (The Green Tiger).

It was chosen as the required piece for the elementary school division of the 90th NHK All-Japan School Music Competition in 2023.

The lyrics were written by novelist Reiko Hiroshima, known for works such as The Mysterious Candy Shop Zenitendō, and the music was composed by Takatsugu Muramatsu, who has scored Studio Ghibli films as well as numerous movies and TV dramas.

The lyrics depict magical journeys to various wondrous places, and singing them will fill you with excitement.

Be sure to listen for the phrases that sound like magic spells, too—they’re a must-hear! Sing with innocent energy, and let yourself feel as if you’re traveling right along with the song.

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SAKI

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Bridge of Gloryyuzu

YELL — choral version

This is the 21st single by the folk duo Yuzu, used as the official theme song for NHK’s Athens Olympic broadcasts.

Its powerful message—that there are places you can only reach through relentless effort—resonates deeply, with lyrics that strikingly mirror the spirit of athletes.

The dynamic, catchy melody and positive lyrics also make it a great fit for an elementary school chorus.

It’s a song that encourages children to appreciate the importance of hard work by singing it.

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Hoshino Takashi

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cherry blossomMoriyama Naotaro

Sakura (Solo) Mixed Four-Part Chorus

This is a song released by singer Naotaro Moriyama in 2003.

It became his breakthrough hit and has since influenced a wide range of generations, even being sung in school music classes.

As the title suggests, it is often performed in spring, especially at graduation and entrance ceremonies.

Although the original is sung solo by Moriyama himself, it can be performed as a mixed chorus regardless of gender, the accompaniment is simple, and above all, its high recognition makes it a highly versatile piece.

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kinya

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Song of FledgingIwakawa Saburō

Song of Leaving the Nest, Konosu Kita Junior High School, Grade Choir (172 members)

“Sudachi no Uta,” widely sung as a graduation chorus piece, is a song of parting addressed to the teachers and friends who have supported you before you set off from school toward the future.

It evokes many memories—fun times and hard times—and various scenes from school life.

Though it’s sad to leave this place and the people you love, the song conveys the resolve to hold your head high and depart for a wonderful future.

With beautiful harmony between boys and girls, it lets fathers, mothers, and teachers witness the growth achieved over six years.

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SAKI

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In springKinoshita Makiko

Makiko Kinoshita / “In Spring” (poem by Shuntaro Tanikawa) from the mixed chorus collection “Beyond the Horizon” — Shuichi Toma, Taiyo Kinoshita, Osaka Heinrich Schütz Chamber Choir

Makiko Kinoshita set one of Shuntaro Tanikawa’s poems to music, and a three-part mixed chorus version was released in 1989.

Because versions also exist in B-flat major for three-part treble voices and four-part male voices, the piece is popular as a choral work sung by a wide range of ages—from elementary school children to mothers’ choruses.

Many schools choose this piece as their free-choice work in nationwide choral competitions.

Thank you, goodbye.Fukuda Wakako

Thank you, goodbye.

For anyone looking for a song to sing at a graduation ceremony, our top recommendation is “Arigatou Sayounara” (“Thank You, Goodbye”).

It’s a moving song filled with gratitude and farewells to the friends, teachers, and classroom you’ve shared time with.

With many repeated melodies, it’s easy for elementary school students to learn.

Even sung in a single part without splitting into sections like a mixed chorus, it still has great impact—so why not choose it for your graduation ceremony?

Hymn to the EarthSatō Makoto

Hymn to the Earth (with lyrics)

This heart-stirring masterpiece, with lyrics by Atsuo Oki and music by Makoto Sato, sings praises and gratitude to the earth.

It is a grand piece for choir and orchestra, loved by junior high and high school students across Japan.

Highly popular as a song performed at graduation ceremonies, it is cherished as a symbol of appreciation for nature and human growth.

The lyrics, which express the life force of Mother Earth and deep respect for the blessings we receive from it, are particularly striking.

Like the steadfastness of the earth itself, this song gives you the courage to stand firm and keep moving forward.