[2026] Graduation songs you’ll want to play in concert band! A collection of moving J‑Pop hits

End and Beginningkariyushi 58

Kariyushi58 'The End Is the Beginning'

[Ensemble Lidore] The End, the Beginning

The end of today is also the beginning of a new tomorrow.

That straightforward outlook on life is conveyed by this song from Okinawa-born rock band Kariyushi 58, released in February 2010 as the B-side to their single “Ame nochi Hare.” It gained nationwide recognition when it was chosen as the theme song for Nippon TV’s “Gyoretsu no Dekiru Horitsu Sodanjo,” and later returned to the spotlight in 2017 as the theme for the TV Tokyo drama “Sanbiki no Ossan 3.” Over the course of roughly six minutes, its structure gradually builds from a quiet intro to a passionate peak, delivering the lyrics’ message deep into the listener’s heart.

This work is a motivational anthem that makes you want to ask yourself, before graduation, whether there’s anything left undone.

While it mourns parting with friends, it also sends students off toward a new chapter—an ideal piece to perform in wind ensemble for those embarking on their next journey.

Come, spring.Matsutōya Yumi

Yumi Matsutoya – Come, Spring

Spring, Come / Yumi Matsutoya [Grade 4]

Selected as the theme song for NHK’s morning drama series in 1994, this piece reached households across the country every morning.

Released as Yumi Matsutoya’s 26th single, it topped the Oricon charts and became a million-selling hit with cumulative sales exceeding 1.16 million copies.

Its beautiful melody, evoking traditional Japanese sensibilities, and its lyrics woven with classical diction received high praise—so much so that they were included in junior high school Japanese textbooks.

Depicting a prayer for spring after a long winter, the song is perfectly suited to graduation ceremonies that mark farewells and new beginnings.

When performing it with a wind ensemble, focusing on long-breathed phrasing and sensitive pacing will help convey the original’s serene beauty.

On this important day celebrating a new departure, why not send off the graduates with a gently resonant performance that touches the heart?

The Door to TomorrowI WiSH

I WiSH “Door to Tomorrow” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

Door to Tomorrow [Grade 2.5 (Small Ensemble) / Wind Band Selection]

I WiSH’s debut single “Ashita e no Tobira” is a moving song perfectly suited for graduation ceremonies.

Released on Valentine’s Day and featured on the show “Ainori,” it became a memorable hit from the moment it came out.

The lyrics woven by ai offer the courage to take that first new step called graduation.

Its melody—somehow nostalgic yet fresh—will warmly embrace the hearts of graduates.

Still beloved today, “Ashita e no Tobira” promises an even more stirring presentation when arranged for wind ensemble.

road; way; path; street; route; Tao (in philosophy)EXILE

EXILE / Road

WSL-13-037 Road (Wind Orchestra Selection)

EXILE’s “Michi (Road)” is immeasurably appealing as a song befitting a graduation ceremony.

Featuring lyrics that poignantly depict farewells and new beginnings typical of the graduation season, it has been widely embraced since its 2007 release as a moving, staple song performed at many schools.

In the concert band arrangement, the melody is vividly rendered by the brass section, further highlighting the warmth and hope inherent in the original.

A heartfelt performance by the students will elevate the atmosphere of the ceremony and become an unforgettable memory.

365 Days’ Paper AirplaneAKB48

[MV full] 365 Nichi no Kamihikōki / AKB48 [Official]

365-day Paper Airplane / AKB48 [Grade 3]

AKB48’s “365 Nichi no Kamihikōki” (“365-Day Paper Airplane”) is a song that encourages people to keep a strong heart as they embark on the new journey of graduation, conveying a message of hope along with its gentle melody.

Performed by a wind ensemble as a scene in a graduation ceremony, it will surely remain forever in the students’ hearts.

Composed by Toshiyuki Sumino and Hiroki Aoba with lyrics by Yasushi Akimoto, the song emphasizes the importance of the process over the result.

With its outstanding harmonies, this work can truly be called a classic that brings both tears and smiles to graduation ceremonies.

Best FriendKiroro

Kiroro ｢Best Friend｣ Official Music Video

WSL-16-001 Best Friend/Kiroro (Wind Ensemble Selection)

A friendship song that resonates deeply in the heart.

This track by Kiroro is their 10th single, released in June 2001.

Its lyrics, expressing gratitude to a friend, are striking and have touched many listeners.

The song conveys the importance of someone who stays by your side in difficult times and the comfort found in their smile, all carried by a warm melody.

It became widely known as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Churasan,” and later drew renewed attention in 2015 when it was used as the Japanese end theme for Disney and Pixar’s “The Good Dinosaur.” Loved as a song that accompanies life’s milestones—such as graduations and weddings—it continues to be cherished.

It’s also perfect for wind ensemble performances, so consider adding it to your program.

Graduation PhotoMatsutōya Yumi

Graduation Photograph / Sotsugyou Shashin (2022 Ｍix)

Wind Ensemble Hit: Graduation Photograph / Yumi Matsutoya

This work is marked by a warm melody that gently enfolds memories of youth.

Released by Yumi Arai (now Yumi Matsutoya) in 1975, the song reflects on days gone by through the lens of graduation photos.

Subtle lyrics capture complex emotions—first love, friendship, and the sorrow of parting—resonating deeply with listeners.

Included on the album COBALT HOUR, it was also used as the theme song for the film Watch with Me: Graduation Photos.

It’s a perfect track for graduation ceremonies or moments of reminiscence, and its lovely melody can evoke an especially moving feeling when performed by a wind ensemble.