A lovely graduation song

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

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.
Graduated from a music school / 21 years of piano experiencesatomi
I began playing the piano at the age of four and spent six years at a conservatory, focusing mainly on classical music while honing my skills. In addition to solo performance, I studied extensively in chamber music and two-piano repertoire, and I had the opportunity to perform twice on stage as a soloist in piano concertos. While not to the same extent as classical, I also learned jazz and pop through practical performance. I was active as a pianist in various settings, including instrumental and vocal/choral accompaniment, performance assistance for other departments, and recording sessions. Beyond the piano, I devoted five years to the trombone in a wind ensemble. I hope to draw on these experiences to share the charm of music with many people.

Music is indispensable at graduation ceremonies.

Memories of student life—days spent with friends and teachers, club activities, school trips—float back as if they were yesterday, and sink in all the more alongside lyrics that resonate.

In this article, we introduce recommended graduation songs, mainly J-pop, that make those special moments even more vivid when performed by a wind ensemble.

Along with timeless classics that have been loved for years, we also feature masterpieces that have become popular in the Reiwa era and beyond, so be sure to check them out.

We hope that a wind ensemble performance will add even more color to this important day of celebrating a new beginning at your graduation ceremony!

[2026] Graduation Songs You’ll Want to Perform in Wind Ensemble! A Moving J-Pop Collection (41–50)

Everyone, everyone is shining.Yugeda Kensuke

Everyone, everyone is shining (unison chorus)

Everyone, everyone is shining.Yugeda Kensuke

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.

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We Look Up to You with Respect

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.

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Homeward Road in MarchHirai Dai

Dai Hirai / The Way Home in March (Lyric Video)

Homeward Road in MarchHirai Dai

In the season when spring cherry blossoms are in full bloom, Dai Hirai’s music truly touches the heart.

It beautifully sings of the sadness of graduation and parting, as well as the hope for new beginnings, gently enveloping listeners.

Set to the tender tones of piano and strings, the lyrics—woven with cherished memories and dreams for the future—leave a lasting impression.

Released in February 2022, this song is also included on the album “LOVE+PEACE.” It’s perfect for moments like graduation and entrance ceremonies.

With a heartwarming melody that feels like a send-off to those embarking on a new chapter, it resonates deeply.

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In conclusion

We’ve introduced recommended graduation songs for wind ensemble performances.

In addition to timeless classics that have been loved for years, newer pieces that have become recent standards are also moving.

Every piece is wonderful, and you might even find yourself getting emotional while performing.

Be sure to color your important day of celebrating a new beginning with the rich sound of wind ensemble music!