Choral Songs Sung at Elementary School Graduation Ceremonies: A Collection of Moving Song Ideas

What connects to tomorrowTsugano Tomoko

What connects to tomorrow (with lyrics)

Speaking of slightly more challenging graduation chorus songs, this is the one.

It’s mid-tempo and has a relatively wide melodic range, so some practice may be needed.

The melody for each part is basically the same, allowing you to enjoy vocal harmonies.

The lyrics describe a forward-looking farewell, making it a graduation song that, intriguingly, doesn’t feel sentimental—a refreshing track!

bondYamazaki Tomoko

"Kizuna" Chorus Song / Mixed Choir in Three Parts / Full Ensemble (All) - With Full Lyrics - For Part Practice - Covered by Singer micah

Beloved as a staple song for graduation ceremonies, this choral piece by Tomoko Yamazaki features lyrics that evoke everyday moments with friends—like cherry blossom season or the walk home at dusk.

It reminds us that the times we spent laughing together and sometimes struggling are irreplaceable treasures.

Its warm message—that even when we part, our hearts remain deeply connected—helps turn the sadness of farewell into hope.

Included in a song collection published in July 2010, the work was originally composed as a commemorative piece for a choral seminar.

Characterized by simple yet beautiful harmonies, it continues to be sung in various arrangements, such as three-part mixed chorus and two-part equal voices.

It’s a perfect song for graduation ceremonies and send-off gatherings, where an entire class can unite their hearts and sing as one.

Best friendSnow Man

The official lyric video for “Best Friend” from the 9th single “Dangerholic” is now streaming! #SnowMan #BestFriend #Dangerholic #Sunotube

How about a heartwarming song that straightforwardly expresses gratitude to an irreplaceable best friend? Featured on the standard edition of the single “Dangerholic,” released in September 2023, this track is a friendship song performed by Snow Man.

It conveys a heartfelt “thank you” to a friend who stayed by your side without saying a word when you were worn out by everyday life and hurt by what others said.

The relay-like structure in which the nine members take turns singing conveys a strong bond and gentleness.

It’s a perfect classic for telling a friend who’s heading down a different path the appreciation that’s usually too embarrassing to say out loud.

If everyone sings it together on the milestone day of graduation, holding past memories close, it will surely become a lifelong treasure you’ll never forget.

Bridge of Gloryyuzu

"Glorious Bridge" - Hata Children's Choir

Among the many graduation songs out there, this one stands out for its powerful message that truly resonates.

The lyrics about the unseen tears and steady effort that have shaped who we are today mirror the graduates reflecting on their six years of school life, bringing a lump to the throat.

Released in July 2004 as Yuzu’s 21st single, it served as the official theme song for NHK’s Athens Olympics broadcasts, moving people across Japan.

This grand ballad, which gives us the courage to face the future after overcoming hardships, feels perfect for ceremonies celebrating a new beginning.

It’s a song you’ll want to sing as you head toward a hope-filled tomorrow, expressing gratitude to teachers and parents along the way.

To the next sky

Two-part choral piece for the Risshiki and graduation ceremonies, “To the Next Sky” (Kurosawajiri Kita Elementary School)

Kensuke Yugeda’s “To the Next Sky” is a song that beautifully and powerfully depicts the fleeting moment of graduation.

Its lyrics, which stand close to the hearts of children standing at the threshold of a new beginning, bring out feelings of hope for the future and gratitude.

Widely sung and cherished in music education settings, this piece will become a special page of memories for children.

I hope its clear, pure voices will carry a memorable message into the wide open sky.

As it’s included in textbooks and beloved by a broad audience, it will surely help deepen bonds as they take that important first step forward!

TOMORROWLyrics and Composition: Sugimoto Ryūichi

[Choral Song] Tomorrow (Mixed Chorus, Three-Part) [3-Singer Version]

This song, beloved as the ending theme of NHK’s nature documentary program “Ikimono Chikyū Kikō” (A Journey of Life on Earth), is one of Ryuichi Sugimoto’s signature works as both lyricist and composer.

Released as a single in May 1993, it is also included on the album “Tomorrow — NHK ‘Ikimono Chikyū Kikō’ Soundtrack.” Its lyrics, which sing of hope for tomorrow while drawing on the grandeur of nature—like birds soaring in the sky and stardust in the night—leave a lasting impression and gently encourage the listener.

With a calm tempo and expansive melody, it’s perfect for choral performance and is sung in various arrangements, including two-part and mixed three-part choruses.

It has long been cherished as a standard song for graduation and farewell ceremonies, and when voices come together, it warmly colors any moment of departure.

CorrectRADWIMPS

RADWIMPS – The Answer [Official Music Video]

This is a captivating song with lyrics that resonate and a warm, comforting melody.

The lyrics, which support those graduating or taking a new step forward, convey the importance of living true to yourself.

Showcasing RADWIMPS’ delicate sensibilities, the track was released digitally in January 2024, followed by a limited CD in February.

It also includes a version featuring a student choir, making it a song you’ll want to hear during memorable moments like graduation ceremonies.

It’s recommended for those standing at a crossroads in life or when you want to send encouragement to someone special.