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

Promise of SunflowersHata Motohiro

Motohiro Hata – “Himawari no Yakusoku” Music Video

Wind Band Hit: Himawari no Yakusoku (Promise of Sunflowers) / Motohiro Hata

A song written by Motohiro Hata for a Doraemon movie.

It features lyrics filled with kindness and warmth, and a melody that resonates with the heart.

Centered on the bond between Nobita and Doraemon, it expresses their care for one another and the belief that they will reunite even when apart.

Released in 2014, it reached No.

1 on the iTunes and Billboard charts, and also ranked high in JASRAC’s royalty distribution rankings.

This song, which offers comfort to those facing farewells with loved ones or new beginnings, is often performed by wind bands at graduations and send-off ceremonies, creating a moving atmosphere.

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.

Friend ~Time of Departure~yuzu

Yuzu “Friend ~The Time of Departure~”

“Wind Ensemble Hit” Tomo ~Time of Departure~ / Yuzu

Perfect for an inspiring wind ensemble performance, “Tomodachi ~Tabidachi no Toki~” is one of Yuzu’s signature songs, widely supported by many students.

After being selected as the set piece for the 80th NHK All-Japan School Music Competition, where it was sung by junior high school students, it was also featured on Minna no Uta.

In the wake of the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, this song—depicting strong bonds—resonates even more deeply when heard at moments of parting and new beginnings.

Reminding us of the importance of friendship during farewells that everyone experiences, it is an ideal choice for 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.

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.

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.