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

Song of SpringFujihara Sakura

Sakura Fujiwara – Spring Song (Lyric Video) – 360 Reality Audio

This is a captivating song with a melody that evokes the gentle warmth of spring sunlight and a smoky vocal that nestles close to the heart.

Though it carries the anxiety of an unseen tomorrow, its lyrics encourage taking a strong first step forward—sure to gently support graduates setting off into new environments.

Included on a single released in March 2017 and chosen as the theme song for the latter part of the film March Comes in Like a Lion, the piece moved many to tears in theaters.

It’s also featured on the album PLAY, where Spitz’s original classic is reinterpreted with Sakura Fujiwara’s uniquely warm expression.

Because it overlaps with the image of children overcoming the sadness of parting and taking flight with hope, it’s perfect for scenes where you want to create a moving graduation ceremony.

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 those ordinary days were irreplaceable treasures.

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

The lyrics capture the genuine feelings of Inoue herself, then a third-year high school student, and they move you not only with a sense of loneliness but also with gratitude for the people you met and a forward-looking message.

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

It’s the perfect song to sing when you want to convey overflowing thanks to friends as you each head down different paths.

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!

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.

We againSG

Us, Again – SG (Official Lyric Video)

A graduation song filled with memories and warmth that’s drawing attention is the work of SG.

Looking back on the carefree days, its gentle melody wraps around the feelings of parting and what comes after, warming the heart.

The lyrics, full of strength to move forward and hope for reunion, soothe many people as a piece that stands beside them at important milestones in life.

Since November 2024, it has also been featured in Calorie Mate’s exam-season support commercial, adding a new charm through a wind ensemble arrangement.

This piece was produced with the cooperation of the Hanazono Tokuei High School Wind Ensemble, and the music created together with the students delivers a moving resonance that crosses generations.

It is a fitting song to gently push you forward at graduations, farewell gatherings, and moments of parting with someone important.

Please give me wingsSakushi: Yamagami Michio / Sakkyoku: Murai Kunihiko

Please give me wings

This is a timeless folk song beloved across generations.

The lyricist, Michio Yamagami, is known for depicting everyday scenes in unadorned language, and in this piece, the simple wish to take to the sky resonates deeply.

The music was composed by Kunihiko Murai, and the song was released in February 1971 as a single by Akaitori.

It was later included in school textbooks and spread nationwide as a choral piece, and it has been cherished in many settings, from being sung as a support song for Japan’s national soccer team to performances at the Nagano Olympics.

Cover versions by Kaori Kawamura and Junko Yamamoto also drew attention, reaching a wide range of listeners.

It’s perfect for preschool graduation ceremonies as background music for slideshows or as a recessional.

The song has a warmth that gently encourages children as they step into a new world.

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.