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

People and PeopleYugeda Kensuke

"Hito to Hito" (Lyrics: Tomohiro Iwai, Music: Kensuke Yugeda, Performance: Toin Gakuen Elementary School) — a choral piece for a music concert

This is a warm piece that sings about the importance of encounters through music.

The fresh melodies woven by Kensuke Yugedate carry a gentle calm while conveying a moving message.

In clear, resonant words, it speaks of the joy born from human connections and the inevitable meaning hidden within chance meetings.

Delivered by the pure voices of the Toin Gakuen Elementary School Choir, the work is also slated to appear in elementary school music textbooks starting in 2024.

Its kind, uplifting message is perfect for children who are about to meet new people in a new environment.

As they take their next step in school life, this wonderful song will give them courage and hope—please give it a listen.

Sakura (Solo)Moriyama Naotaro

Naotaro Moriyama – Sakura (Solo)

This song, themed around cherry blossoms that brighten the spring graduation season, gently sings of farewells, reunions, and the treasured memories that remain in our hearts.

Naotaro Moriyama’s clear, pure vocals and the majestic arrangement of piano and strings resonate deeply.

The beautiful story, intertwining life’s important moments with the fleeting nature of cherry blossoms, leaves a lasting impression on listeners.

Released in March 2003, the track was chosen as the ending theme for the MBS/TBS program “Sekai Ururun Taizaiki,” and was later included on the album “In Search of New Spices.” Embraced as a song that accompanies life’s milestones such as graduation and school entrance ceremonies, it has also become a gentle, comforting piece for elementary school children.

Only the graduation photo knowsHinatazaka46

The Only One Who Knows Is the Graduation Photo by Hinatazaka46

A song by Hinatazaka46 themed around graduation.

It gently sings of the bittersweet feelings of the cherry blossom season and the love that went unspoken.

Memories and regrets sealed in graduation photos resonate deeply, intertwined with clear, transparent vocals.

Set for release on January 29, 2025, the track features Nao Kosaka as center and will be available in five editions: limited first-press versions and a regular edition.

It was premiered at their Tokyo Dome concert on December 26, 2024.

It’s a recommended listen not only for students entering graduation season, but also for anyone who wants to reflect on past loves.

Born on this planetSugimoto Ryuichi

[Chorus] Born on This Planet (Mixed Chorus in Three Parts)

A moving choral piece that powerfully sings of the strength to live and the importance of dreams.

Ryuichi Sugimoto’s beautiful melody and profound lyrics gently embrace the listener’s heart.

Released in August 1996, the song was also used as the ending theme for NHK’s “Ikimono Chikyū Kikō” (A Journey of Life on Earth) and has long been cherished by many.

It is well known as a staple often performed at elementary school graduation ceremonies and choral competitions.

Perfect for those who feel anxious about stepping into a new environment or who want to strive toward their dreams.

It will stay close to your heart, giving you courage and hope.

Gazing up, the sky is blueHata Motohiro

Motohiro Hata / Aogeba Aozora Music Video

This work beautifully portrays graduation as a milestone in life.

Motohiro Hata’s clear, translucent voice captures both the sadness of parting and the hope of a new beginning in full.

Released in March 2019, it garnered attention as the theme song for a SoftBank TV commercial.

While cherishing past memories, this piece gives you the courage to take a step toward the future.

It’s a song I hope those embarking on a new chapter will listen to as spring arrives.

Its heartfelt melody and lyrics will surely give you a gentle push forward.

SAKURAikimonogakari

SAKURA – Ikimonogakari (Full)

A heartwarming song that gently portrays the season when cherry blossoms dance in the air.

Its refreshing, springlike melody is beautifully layered with Kiyoe Yoshioka’s clear, transparent vocals from Ikimonogakari, resonating deeply with the listener.

While carefully depicting the scenes of a season filled with meetings and farewells, it serves as an encouraging anthem that gives you the courage to take the next step.

Released in March 2006 as their major-label debut, it was also used in an NTT East Japan commercial.

It has often been broadcast to coincide with the school graduation season and continues to be cherished as a song of memories.

It’s recommended for those who, in the spring season of partings, want to face forward and start walking, or are about to take a new step.

Graduation PhotoArai Yumi

Graduation Photograph / Sotsugyou Shashin (2022 Ｍix)

A masterpiece woven from a gentle singing voice that stays close to the heart and lyrics that gracefully portray nostalgia for days gone by.

Featured on the album “COBALT HOUR,” released by Yumi Arai in June 1975, this song delicately expresses life and change after graduation.

It lyrically spins memories of a cherished person who lives on forever within the warmth of reminiscence.

It was also selected as the theme song for Fuji TV’s drama “Sotsu Uta” and the film “Watch with Me.” A heartwarming encouragement song to listen to in times of sorrow or at life’s crossroads.