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

Somewhere on this Earth

[Chorus] Somewhere on This Earth (with lyrics)

This is a song that’s actually sung at many elementary schools as part of their graduation ceremonies.

Released in 1998 as a choral piece, it’s a standard often covered in music classes as well.

Its grand, beautifully flowing melody and interwoven harmonies are wonderful, making it a perfect fit for the solemn and moving atmosphere of a graduation.

The lyrics, written in familiar, accessible language, convey hope that even after graduation, when everyone goes their separate ways, they will remain connected—making it a highly recommended choice for elementary school students to sing.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hane Keisuke

Report a problem

Promise of SunflowersHata Motohiro

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

Written 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 Koukei” and “All Time Best Hata Motohiro.” Many listeners were undoubtedly moved by its lyrics, which portray the warmth of those who stay by our side and the unchanging bonds that endure even when we’re apart.

Widely loved as well for its use in NTT West’s commercials, the melody is so well-known that anyone can hum along.

This song, which reminds us that the ordinary moments spent with friends are priceless, is the perfect choice for a graduation ceremony to say “thank you” to teachers and peers who have supported you.

We Look Up to You with Respect

[Graduation Ceremony] [Elementary School] [Chorus] Aogeba Totoshi (Song: 'With Deep Reverence')

A classic graduation song, “Aogeba Tōtoshi.” Many of your parents’ generation likely sang it, too.

It has a long history—it was composed in the Meiji era! For over a hundred years, it has been passed down as a staple of graduation ceremonies.

The song expresses graduates’ gratitude to the teachers who taught them, as they look back on their school days.

Because the lyrics are written in somewhat literary and difficult language, it also lets students show that by the end of their six years of elementary school, they can sing something this challenging.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

SAKI

Report a problem

Song of Fledging

Song of Leaving the Nest (Two-Part)

Produced in 1965, this song is a classic graduation tune that is still sung at many elementary schools today.

Rather than a subdued, mellow vibe, it has a pleasantly upbeat feel that brings a smile to your face.

Its hallmark is a simple, straightforward melody line set at a comfortable mid-tempo that makes it easy to keep rhythm, which is why it’s so popular and easy to sing.

The lyrics, which depict spreading your wings toward the future, are another major draw—an undeniably moving song that resonates with many people.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hane Keisuke

Report a problem

spring melancholyMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – Spring Melancholy

This song delicately portrays the transience of youth and the emotions of adolescence.

It’s said that Motoki Omori, the vocalist of Mrs.

GREEN APPLE, wrote it the day after his high school graduation ceremony.

It’s a perfect track to listen to during graduation season.

The song was tied in as the theme for Suntory’s “Craft Boss” commercial and became widely loved.

In March 2024, it surpassed 100 million cumulative streams on the Billboard JAPAN charts.

Why not give it a listen this spring, a season that evokes farewells and growth? Its heartfelt lyrics and beautiful melody are sure to color your memories.

Thank you, goodbye.

Choral Piece '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?

proofflumpool

flumpool “Proof” Music Video (Full Chorus ver.)

This is a heartwarming song themed around parting with friends and embarking on new journeys.

Released in September 2011, it was created as the required piece for the junior high school division of the NHK National School Music Competition that year.

It is also included on flumpool’s third original album, “experience.” The song was performed on the NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen, where it captured the hearts of many.

With lyrics that sing of hope for the future and bonds between friends, it especially resonates with students.

It is a song that many facing changes such as graduation or advancing to a new school can deeply relate to.

While expressing the loneliness of parting with friends, it also conveys a mutual respect for each other’s dreams, making it a piece that offers comfort to listeners.