What Do You Call a Group of Singers Singing in Unison? Choir, Chorus, or Team?

When a number of singers perform in harmony, producing a unified sound, they are often referred to as a choir or a chorus. But did you know that the term can vary based on context, music type, and cultural traditions? In this article, we will explore the nuances of these terms and help you choose the most appropriate one for your singers.

Understanding the Terms: Choir vs. Chorus vs. Team

The musical term for a group of singers singing in unison or all together at the same time is the Italian word tutti. However, in English, we often use 'chorus' or 'choir', so let's break down the differences:

Choir

A choir is a group of singers, often organized in a religious context. It can refer to a vocal group in a church, temple, or other religious facilities. Choirs typically have a conductor and may perform with or without instrumental accompaniment.

Chorus

A chorus, on the other hand, is more versatile and can be used for any group of singers, whether or not they are in a religious setting. In opera, 'chorus' refers to the entire collection of singers on stage. In schools, it may refer to students learning to sing together.

Team of Singers

When you hear the term 'team', it often implies a collaborative effort, usually in a competitive or organizational context. Therefore, a 'team of singers' might not fit well unless they are indeed in a team for a performance or competition.

Contextual Differences

The term you choose can also depend on the type of music and the performance setting. Here are some examples:

Religious Context

In a religious setting, the term choir is often used. For instance, in a church service with robes and formal attire, the group would be referred to as a choir. If the group performs without accompaniment, you might use a cappella choir.

Acappella and Oldies Pop

For groups performing a cappella or oldies pop, the term chorus might be more appropriate. This could include quartets or quintets singing in harmony, like Doo Wop groups in the 1950s, or modern groups like the New Kids on the Block.

School Context

In a school setting, you might refer to students as a chorus. For example, a high school drama club rehearsing a musical would call the group a chorus rather than a choir. This term also applies to groups in performing arts programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to the terms chorus, choir, and team:

What is the difference between a choir and a chorus?

A choir is often associated with religious or formal settings, while a chorus can be used in any context. Choruses can be found in opera, schools, and various forms of entertainment.

Can a group of singers be called a band?

Technically, a band usually implies individuals playing instruments. However, if a group of singers is playing instruments, then they can be called a band of singers.

When would you use the term 'team'?

The term team is usually used for a group of individuals working together, often in a competitive or cooperative context, such as a sports team or a business team. In the context of singing, a team might be more appropriate if the singers are part of a group competing in a singing contest or performing as a collaborative unit.

Conclusion

In summary, the words 'choir' and 'chorus' are often used interchangeably, but the choice may depend on the specific context and the type of music and performance. While a 'team of singers' might be appropriate for a singing competition, a 'choir' or 'chorus' is more commonly used in formal and social settings. Understanding these nuances can help you use the terms correctly and enhance your communication about vocal performance.