[Entrance Ceremony Songs] A Selection of Classic and Popular Tunes That Capture Elementary Schoolers’ Hearts!

right palm

right palm

“Migite no Hira” (The Palm of the Right Hand) is a choral piece composed by Kensaku Tanikawa with lyrics by Wakako Kaku.

Both have created numerous works, and in particular, Wakako Kaku has written songs for artists such as Kenji Sawada and Kyoko Koizumi.

She is also highly versatile, having worked on choral suites and pieces for music competitions.

I’m not sure if this song speaks to the worry children feel when starting elementary school—like wondering, “Can I make 100 friends?”—but to me it sounds like it gently stands by those anxious feelings: “What kind of kids will be there?” “Will I be able to talk to them?” I’m sure that by the time you listen to the end, those worries will be blown away!

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I’ve been waiting for you.

I’ve Been Waiting for You — Lyrics by Keiko Hitomi, Music by Shinya Ujiie

“I’ve Been Waiting for You” is a choral piece often featured in collections of children’s choir works.

The melody is very gentle and easy to sing, making it a great choice even for lower-grade students.

If all the current students sing this song to welcome the first graders, I’m sure the first graders will be absolutely delighted when they hear the lyrics! It’s moving to be able to express the joy of meeting so directly.

And not only is the singing easy, but the piano accompaniment is also simple to play, so it’s wonderful that children can perform it with ease.

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Let’s sing of springSakushi: Kobayashi Junichi / Sakkyoku: Nakada Yoshinao

Let's sing of spring

Amid the gentle light of spring, this heartwarming song—crafted by Junichi Kobayashi and Yoshinao Nakada—tenderly accompanies the feelings of new students.

Its melody is light and approachable, making it easy for children to hum along.

The lyrics weave in expressions of spring’s arrival in languages from around the world, offering the charm of shared joy that transcends borders.

Since the 1970s, it has been included in elementary school music textbooks and widely used in music education.

Long cherished by many, it’s a perfect piece to sing at entrance ceremonies and spring events as children take their first steps into a new environment.

The world is smiling at you.Little Glee Monster

Little Glee Monster 'The World Is Smiling at You' Short Ver.

As you’d expect from a group whose theme is “leaving a lasting mark on people’s hearts with razor-sharp vocals,” Little Glee Monster—aka Litoguri—are true powerhouses.

This song by the female vocal group is their 18th single, released in 2018.

Their vocals, of course, are outstanding, and the lyrics are very uplifting—listening to them gives you energy.

Many children feel anxious about attending elementary school for the first time.

This song gently stays close to those worries and naturally encourages you, so give it a listen on your entrance ceremony day.

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Que sera, seraMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE “Que Sera Sera” Official Music Video

An anthem brimming with kindness and the will to live has been born.

This song by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE is a warm piece that gently nudges those taking a new step forward.

With a refreshing melody and a comfortable rhythm, it sings of self-esteem and the courage to take on challenges.

While acknowledging the hardships and anxieties of life, it conveys—with deep affection—the importance of keeping your eyes ahead and continuing to move forward.

Released in April 2023 as the theme song for the TV drama “Even If It’s Sunday Night…,” the song went on to win the Japan Record Award that same year.

It is a heartwarming track that stands beside first graders starting elementary school and everyone who gives their all to live each day.

Morning of the BeginningOfisharu Higedan Dism

Official HIGE DANDism – Morning of the Beginning [Official Audio]

A song perfect for school entrance ceremonies has been born.

It’s a track by Official HIGE DANDism, released in April 2017.

This piece delivers the excitement and anticipation of a new life with a refreshing melody.

It’s filled with elements that evoke student life—sounds like fizzy soda, brand-new sneakers, and the 8:30 chime.

The hope-filled lyrics and expansive vocals will gently encourage new students.

It’s a must-listen for children starting elementary school this spring, and highly recommended for anyone embarking on a new chapter!

Friendship Hymn

Friendship Hymn

This is a song for which Hiroo Sakata, known for children’s songs like “Sacchan” and “The Hungry Song,” wrote lyrics to a melody familiar as the original tune for various parody songs such as “The Battle Hymn of the Republic,” “John Brown’s Body,” and “Bingo.” With lyrics celebrating friendship and love for humanity, it’s perfect for an entrance ceremony where new friends are made.