Upbeat Choral Pieces: A Curated Selection of Energetic Works Perfect for Choir Competitions and School Events!
When everyone is singing a choral piece together, it can sometimes take a while to decide which song to choose, right?
Even if you have a vague idea like “I want something with this kind of vibe,” it can be hard to think of a song that fits.
So in this article, I’ll introduce some recommended choral pieces for those who are thinking, “I want to sing something with a bright feel, but nothing comes to mind.”
All of these songs have an upbeat tone and are fun both to listen to and to sing, so please use them as a reference when choosing your repertoire.
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[Bright, Upbeat Choral Pieces] A curated selection of lively works perfect for choir competitions and events! (41–50)
cherrysupittsu
If you want to stand out from other classes with an element of surprise, how about performing a choral version of Spitz’s 1996 smash hit “Cherry”? Its brisk rhythm and poppy melody offer a different kind of charm from the usual choir repertoire.
However, there are also the unique challenges of pop music: mastering the intricately moving melody lines that weren’t written for large groups, and recreating the drum beat using only the piano.
Practice hard and deliver a perfect rendition of “Cherry”!
footprint(s)Little Glee Monster
A song that deeply empathizes with junior high school students, this work was crafted with great care as the members wrote the lyrics while recalling their own middle school experiences.
Its gentle melody embraces the worries, anxieties, and hopes of the younger generation, resonating in the heart.
Released in September 2020 as Little Glee Monster’s 16th single and also included in their best-of album GRADATI∞N, the song was chosen as the set piece for the junior high school division of the NHK All-Japan School Music Competition in 2020 and 2021, and was also broadcast on NHK’s Minna no Uta.
It’s an excellent choice not only for performing as a choral piece but also for enjoying the joy of singing together with friends and peers.
GiftShiho Ochi · Koichi Tsutaya
A song distinguished by its warm, comforting melody and a powerful message that boosts self-esteem.
While gently addressing the anxieties and loneliness unique to adolescence, it conveys the importance of discovering one’s true self.
Released in September 2019, it was also selected as the set piece for the Middle School Division of the 85th NHK All-Japan School Music Competition.
The music video portrays middle school students in a realistic light, resonating with many viewers.
If everyone unites their hearts and sings it together at choir competitions, graduation ceremonies, or other class- or grade-wide choral occasions, it is sure to become a wonderful memory.
ECHOLittle Glee Monster
If you want to incorporate a trending song, we recommend “ECHO.” Haven’t you ever wanted to try Little Glee Monster’s beautiful harmonies? It might feel intimidating to sing alone, but if you split into parts with a group, you can sing without feeling shy.
And when a big group pulls off clean harmonies, it’s really moving, isn’t it? If you want to experience that feeling, go with “ECHO.” Since Little Glee Monster is a female vocal group, it’s also a great choice for girls’ schools.
Try adding a trendy song to your choir and stand out from other classes.
COSMOSMimas
The choral piece “COSMOS” lets you feel the grandeur of the universe.
Its melody, which paints an ever-expanding cosmic image in your mind, is wonderfully pleasant to listen to.
In the chorus, the pitch goes relatively high, so aim to sing freely and comfortably with a sense of openness.
The lyrics have a mystical quality that evokes nature, and if you picture the scenery, you might discover something new.
Beyond the tearsShingu Auto
This is a hit song that originated from NHK’s music variety show “Stage 101.” It’s often sung as a choir piece in elementary and junior high schools, as well as at graduation ceremonies.
With its lively piano accompaniment, it’s popular as a bright, up-tempo song.
HappinessAI
Released in December 2011, this song was once used for Coca-Cola’s Christmas campaign.
The opening bell sound really evokes winter and Christmas! I’m sure many of you have heard it before.
The song itself has R&B elements, with a groove that makes you move your body, and the rhythm is a bit unique.
If you try singing it without preparation, you might feel a slight rhythmic mismatch, so some practice is recommended.
Also, the song’s highest note, D#5 right before the last chorus, has tricky timing—make sure to nail it! There are lots of chorus parts too, so singing it as a duo with harmonies will sound really cool.
It’s a song that portrays “everyday love” and a “sense of happiness.” Enjoy it at karaoke!
