Choir Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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choir
[ËkwĘÉŞÉr ]
Definition
music
A choir is a group of people who sing together, typically in a church or other religious setting. Choirs may consist of singers with different vocal ranges, such as soprano, alto, tenor, and bass.
Synonyms
chorus, singing group, vocal ensemble.
Examples of usage
- The church choir performed beautifully during the Sunday service.
- She has been a member of the school choir for five years now.
- The choir director is responsible for leading rehearsals and selecting music.
- Joining the choir has allowed me to meet new friends who share my love for singing.
- The choir's harmonies added a special touch to the concert.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, choirs play a vital role in religious ceremonies, celebrations, and community events.
- In the 20th century, choirs expanded into pop music, inspiring new genres like gospel and a cappella performances.
- Some famous movies and shows, like 'Pitch Perfect' and 'Glee', highlight the joy and friendship found in choir singing.
Science of Singing
- Singing in groups can increase feelings of happiness and community bonding due to the release of endorphins.
- Research shows that choral singing can improve lung function and increase overall physical health.
- Choral singing has been linked to reduced stress levels, making it a great activity for mental well-being.
Historical Context
- Throughout history, choirs have been used to preserve cultural and musical traditions, especially in religious contexts.
- The development of choir music heavily influenced the creation of classical symphonic music in the 18th and 19th centuries.
- The rise of choral competitions, especially in Europe, fostered a nurturing environment for talented musicians and composers.
Literary References
- Choirs are often depicted in literature as spaces of solace, community, and shared emotion, often highlighting the power of collective voice.
- Several great authors, such as Thomas Hardy and Charles Dickens, referenced choirs to symbolize harmony or conflict within communities.
- In poetry, singing and choirs are frequently used as metaphors for unity and human connection.
Origin of 'choir'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'choirum' and Greek 'khoros', meaning a team of singers or dancers.
- In medieval times, choirs were often found in churches, leading congregations in hymns and prayers.
- The spelling has varied over centuries, with influences from Old French 'cuer' and Middle English 'quyar'.
The word "choir" originated from the Latin word "chorus", which in turn came from the Greek word "khoros" meaning a group of dancers or singers. Choirs have a long history in religious and musical contexts, dating back to ancient civilizations such as Greek and Roman societies. Over the centuries, choirs have evolved to become an integral part of various cultural and religious traditions around the world.