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

threadNakajima Miyuki

thread

Ito (Wind Band Selection)

A masterpiece whose delicate words, woven by Miyuki Nakajima, sink deeply into listeners’ hearts.

Through the metaphor of warp and weft, it portrays the mystery of encounters in life and the threads of fate.

Released in 1992, the song later became widely known when it was chosen as the theme for the 1998 drama “March of the Saints.” Its lyrics gently depict human connections and the warmth that arises within them, making it a beloved piece that accompanies life’s milestones such as graduations and weddings.

It is also well-suited to wind ensemble performance, and if played at a graduation ceremony, it is sure to create a moving moment.

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.

We Look Up to You with Respect

We Look Up to You with Respect

Aogeba Tōtoshi [Osaka Toin Symphonic Band]

This song, which sings of gratitude to teachers and memories from school, is a Japanese shoka published in 1884.

Long cherished as a staple for graduation ceremonies, it has seen fewer performances in recent years due to archaic expressions and shifting values.

Its lyrics, expressing deep appreciation for teachers, friendship, and the emotions of parting, remain etched in many people’s hearts.

In 2007, it was selected for the “100 Best Japanese Songs,” reaffirming its cultural value.

It was used in an important scene in the 1954 film Twenty-Four Eyes, enhancing the work’s atmosphere.

It’s a song that can evoke deep emotions when listened to during graduation ceremonies or when reflecting on one’s student days.

cherry blossomKobukuro

Kobukuro “Sakura”

Wind Band Hit: Sakura / Kobukuro

A masterpiece whose gentle, bittersweet melody and lyrics resonate deeply.

It’s also Kobukuro’s debut single, a work that can be called their point of origin.

Centered on themes of heartbreak and farewell, it portrays changes in life and emotion, as well as growth, through the image of cherry blossoms.

The song’s stance—cherishing feelings that don’t fade even after they scatter, while singing about the strength to move forward—is striking.

Released as a single in November 2005, it was re-released in a CD+DVD format the following February.

Chosen as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Ns’ Aoi,” it has become a piece that offers comfort to many listeners.

A song you’ll want to hear during graduation ceremonies and the season of farewells.

As spring arrives and graduates prepare to take a new step forward, why not perform this deeply moving piece in a wind ensemble arrangement?

Sakura (Solo)Moriyama Naotaro

Naotaro Moriyama – Sakura (Solo)

Sakura (Solo) / Naotaro Moriyama [Grade 3 / Wind Ensemble Selection]

Naotaro Moriyama’s second single “Sakura” has been performed at many graduation ceremonies.

Despite its simple melody, the lyrics—using cherry blossoms as a motif that overlaps with the season of parting—leave a strong impression.

After its release, its popularity steadily grew, and it became a special song for many students.

The piece shines with wind instruments, inspiring numerous wind ensemble arrangements, and it remains memorable to perform as well.

Its gently permeating message tenderly encourages everyone embarking on a new chapter, enriching each moment of the graduation ceremony with deeper beauty.

spring melancholyMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – Spring Melancholy

Spring Melancholy [Mrs. GREEN APPLE] Ensemble

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.

Everyone, everyone is shining.Yugeda Kensuke

Everyone, everyone is shining (unison chorus)

Riding on a cherry-blossom-colored breeze, this heartwarming song by Kensuke Yugeda gently sings of the hopeful arrival of spring.

It carries a message of encouragement for children taking their first steps forward, conveying a sense of anticipation for a shining future.

Its melody, expressing both endearing freshness and the courage to walk toward one’s dreams, tenderly nestles against the listener’s heart.

The piece is included on the album “Shiawase ni Naare” and is a beloved song performed at entrance ceremonies and welcome events for new students in elementary schools across Japan.

Since June 2018, it has been passed down in schools nationwide, and through more than 2,000 school concerts, Mr.

Yugeda has delivered it directly to children.

It is a springtime song brimming with joy, one we hope new students, teachers, and families will listen to.