Best Choir Songs For School Choirs in 2025
Choirs have always played an integral role in school settings, providing students with the opportunity to learn and develop their musical skills while fostering teamwork and camaraderie. As the year 2025 unfolds, it’s time to explore some of the best choir songs that school choirs can consider adding to their repertoire. These songs are not only musically captivating but also offer educational value and a chance for students to showcase their talents. Here are nine examples of choir songs that will surely captivate both the performers and the audience.
1. “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen (1984):
This iconic song has become a staple in choral performances. Leonard Cohen’s timeless masterpiece combines hauntingly beautiful lyrics with a captivating melody, making it a perfect choice for school choirs to showcase their vocal range and emotional depth.
2. “Africa” by Toto (1982):
Toto’s “Africa” has experienced a resurgence in popularity over the years, and its catchy melody and uplifting lyrics make it an ideal choice for school choirs. With its rhythmic harmonies and powerful choruses, this song will energize both the performers and the listeners.
3. “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen (1975):
Queen’s magnum opus is a true masterpiece, and it presents a unique challenge for school choirs. “Bohemian Rhapsody” showcases a variety of musical styles, from delicate harmonies to operatic sections, allowing students to explore their vocal abilities and create a memorable performance.
4. “Bridge Over Troubled Water” by Simon & Garfunkel (1970):
This soulful ballad offers a poignant message of support and unity. With its soothing melodies and heartfelt lyrics, “Bridge Over Troubled Water” provides an excellent opportunity for school choirs to showcase their dynamic control and emotional depth.
5. “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey (1981):
Journey’s anthem of perseverance has become a beloved classic. With its infectious energy and powerful lyrics, “Don’t Stop Believin'” is an excellent choice for school choirs to engage the audience and inspire both performers and listeners alike.
6. “Somewhere Only We Know” by Keane (2004):
Keane’s heartfelt ballad offers a tender and intimate experience for both performers and listeners. With its gentle melodies and introspective lyrics, “Somewhere Only We Know” allows school choirs to demonstrate their ability to convey complex emotions through their voices.
7. “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley (1961):
Elvis Presley’s timeless love song has been covered by countless artists, but its beauty remains undiminished. This classic ballad offers school choirs an opportunity to showcase their vocal control and interpretation skills, while also captivating the audience with its romantic melodies.
8. “Fields of Gold” by Sting (1993):
Sting’s hauntingly beautiful ballad evokes a sense of nostalgia and longing. With its poetic lyrics and delicate melodies, “Fields of Gold” provides an excellent platform for school choirs to showcase their ability to convey emotion and captivate the audience.
9. “This Is Me” from The Greatest Showman (2017):
“This Is Me” is an empowering anthem that celebrates self-acceptance and embracing one’s uniqueness. With its powerful lyrics and uplifting melodies, this song offers school choirs the chance to showcase their vocal prowess and inspire both performers and listeners.
As school choirs consider adding these songs to their repertoire, they should also keep in mind the importance of selecting pieces that are appropriate for their ensemble’s skill level and vocal range. It’s crucial to choose songs that challenge the students while also allowing them to showcase their strengths.
Now, let’s address some common questions that arise when selecting songs for school choirs:
1. How do I choose the right songs for my school choir?
Consider the skill level and vocal range of your choir members, as well as the message and style of the songs. It’s important to strike a balance between challenging and accessible pieces.
2. Can I modify the arrangement of a song to suit my choir?
Yes, you can modify the arrangement to suit your choir’s needs. However, ensure that the essence of the song remains intact.
3. Should I consider the cultural diversity of my choir when selecting songs?
Absolutely! Embrace the diversity within your choir and choose songs that represent different cultures and traditions.
4. How do I ensure that the lyrics of a song are appropriate for a school setting?
Thoroughly review the lyrics and ensure that they align with the values and guidelines of your school.
5. Are there any copyright restrictions when performing these songs?
Yes, you should obtain proper licenses or permissions to perform copyrighted songs.
6. How do I incorporate choreography into choir performances?
Consider working with a choreographer or exploring simple, synchronized movements that enhance the overall performance without detracting from the singing.
7. How long should our choir rehearsals be?
Rehearsal times can vary, but aim for regular sessions that allow sufficient time for warm-ups, practice, and addressing any challenges.
8. How can I encourage shy choir members to participate more confidently?
Create a safe and supportive environment, provide individual attention and constructive feedback, and encourage teamwork and peer support.
9. How can I help my choir members improve their vocal skills?
Encourage regular warm-ups, vocal exercises, and provide resources for individual practice, such as vocal exercises or online tutorials.
10. Should I consider incorporating modern songs into our repertoire?
Absolutely! Including modern songs can help keep the repertoire fresh and engaging for both the performers and the audience.
11. How do I engage the audience during choir performances?
Encourage your choir members to convey emotions through their singing, make eye contact with the audience, and consider incorporating storytelling elements into the performance.
12. Can I arrange a medley of songs for my choir?
Yes, medleys can be a great way to showcase multiple songs while creating an interesting musical journey.
13. How do I handle stage fright among choir members?
Provide opportunities for performances in front of smaller audiences, encourage deep breathing and relaxation techniques, and foster a supportive atmosphere within the choir.
14. Should I consider competing in choir competitions?
Competitions can offer valuable experiences and feedback, but ensure that participation does not overshadow the joy of singing together as a choir.
15. How can I involve parents and the community in our choir performances?
Invite parents and community members to performances, create fundraising events, and collaborate with local organizations or schools.
16. How do I select soloists for choir performances?
Hold auditions or consider rotating solo opportunities to provide equal chances for all choir members to showcase their talents.
17. How can I ensure the longevity of our school choir?
Nurture a love for music by providing opportunities for growth, fostering a supportive environment, and celebrating the achievements of the choir.
In conclusion, choosing the best choir songs for school choirs in 2025 requires careful consideration of the students’ abilities, the message of the songs, and the cultural diversity of the ensemble. By selecting songs that challenge and inspire, school choirs can create memorable performances that showcase their talent and captivate the audience. Remember to embrace the potential for growth, foster a supportive environment, and celebrate the joy of singing together as a choir.