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[For Seniors] September Song Special: Introducing Nostalgic Classics and Children’s Songs that Evoke Autumn
When it comes to pleasures that brighten the long autumn nights, few things beat the moments when everyone hums along together.
September is the perfect time to enjoy seasonal songs with older adults.
From numbers with moving, memorable lyrics to rhythmic tunes you can clap along to, we’re introducing songs that help create a warm atmosphere.
You might even find yourselves reminiscing and sharing fond memories with friends around you.
Ranging from children’s songs to classic Showa-era hits, these are all familiar tunes for seniors, sure to bring out natural smiles and a wonderful time.
[For Seniors] September Song Special: Introducing Nostalgic Classics and Children’s Songs That Evoke Autumn (1–10)
Harvest Moondōyō
Speaking of autumn, it brings to mind moon viewing.
There are many songs about the moon, but this time let me introduce “Jugo-ya Otsukisan” (“Full Moon on the Fifteenth Night”).
This children’s song was released in 1920 (Taisho 9) by Ujo Noguchi, who is also known for writing the lyrics to “Soap Bubbles” and “Seven Baby Crows.” It depicts a scene on the night of the mid-autumn full moon—the fifteenth night—where a little girl speaks to the moon.
The blend of the moon’s beauty with the girl’s bleak circumstances evokes a sense of melancholy, which may be why the song is still sung by many people today.
Because the moon is so very blueSugawara Totoko
This song depicts a bittersweet moment between two people on their way home under a beautifully shining moon.
In 1955, a film of the same name based on the song was also released.
The buoyant vocals and light sound evoke the popular music of the time while conveying the characters’ elation.
The lyrics vividly portray the bond between the two and the moonlight that illuminates them, making the scene easy to picture.
It’s a perfect song for reminiscing about the joyful memories of autumn.
Desert of the MoonSeri Yoko
This is a song with a mysterious sense of weightlessness, depicting a prince and princess walking through a moonlit desert night.
Masao Kato, who was active as an illustrator, first published the poem, and it was completed when music and vocals were later added.
An interesting point is the sound that evokes tales like the Arabian Nights and the atmosphere of the Middle East, clearly conveying the desert motif.
Although it’s not a piece tied to a specific season, its gentle mood seems perfect for quietly gazing at the autumn sky.
cosmos (flower)Yamaguchi Momoe
“Cosmos” is a heartwarming song that Momoe Yamaguchi sang in 1977, evoking the arrival of autumn.
The lyrics, in which a bride-to-be expresses gratitude to her mother, resonate with older adults.
Written by Masashi Sada, the words convey deep affection and have garnered broad empathy.
This song is perfect for autumn events such as Respect for the Aged Day and moon-viewing.
It adds color to various activities at care facilities and enriches the hearts of seniors.
It also stirs nostalgic memories and can spark new conversations.
Chanchiki OdesaMinami Haruo
This is a signature work by Haruo Minami—memorable for his performances in traditional kimono—released in June 1957.
The song became a massive hit, selling over 2.2 million copies, and stirred nostalgia in many people living away from their hometowns.
Its poignant lyrics about thinking of home at a street stall tug at the heart, while the cheerful festival-style rhythm lifts the spirits just by listening.
A film based on the song was released in 1958, in which Minami himself also appeared.
On a long autumn evening, a chat with friends will feel all the warmer with this tune.
Even those who don’t usually listen to songs may find themselves smiling and humming along, clapping in time.
The House in KakinokizakaAoki Koichi
While picturing a single tree standing in the garden of their hometown, the protagonist looks back nostalgically from far away.
You can feel the warmth and the bittersweet longing in their heart.
The changing scenes of the family home across the seasons, along with memories of childhood days spent there, are sung to an emotionally rich melody.
As you listen, many of you may find your own nostalgic memories resurfacing.
Sung by Koichi Aoki, this song was a major hit released in September 1957.
Its success led to his first appearance that same year on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen, a story that hints at the fervor of the times.
It’s the perfect piece to hum on a long autumn night while reminiscing with friends.
Take your time with it, and let your thoughts drift to your own hometown.
Moon over the Ruined Castle
A well-known piece familiar from music classes in elementary and junior high school is “Kojo no Tsuki” (The Moon over the Ruined Castle).
The lyrics were written by Bansui Doi and the music composed by Rentaro Taki.
It can even be considered a foundational work of Western-style music created by Japanese composers more than 100 years ago.
The 7-5 syllabic rhythm of the lyrics is quite difficult to grasp just by listening, so when I was a student I couldn’t fully delve into the meaning.
But when you listen again, you realize the lyrics—singing of the rise and fall of worldly fortunes—have a profound flavor.
I especially hope older listeners will enjoy it while reminiscing about the past.
