[2026] Let's Sing at the Chorus Competition! A Roundup of Recommended Western Songs

Circle of LifeElton John

The Circle of Life – Stellenbosch University Choir

Carmen Twillie, Lebo M. – Circle of Life (From “The Lion King”)

It is a provocative work that evokes the cycle of life and the grandeur of nature as depicted in the opening of Disney’s The Lion King.

Counted among the crowning achievements of Elton John’s career, this signature song appears on the album The Lion King: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack.

Upon its release on August 9, 1994, it was accompanied by a legendary anecdote: lyricist Tim Rice handed over the lyrics at 2 p.m., and Elton completed the composition and a demo recording in just an hour and a half.

By letting students resonate with its sweeping melody, it’s a captivating piece that can foster a strong sense of unity among classmates.

Be My BabyThe Ronettes

Be My Baby [with Japanese translation] The Ronettes

The Ronettes were a girl group that enjoyed huge success in the 1960s.

Their song “Be My Baby” is known as one of their signature works.

For a chorus competition, I think the key point of this song is how easy it is to sing.

The main vocal line isn’t very difficult, and there aren’t really any phrases that require belting.

However, because the melody is very bright, it can deliver a powerful impression relative to its level of difficulty.

Since the original is sung by multiple people in a chorus-like style, I recommend checking out the original recording when you practice this song.

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Ryo

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ABCThe Jackson 5

The Recruits – ABC [Jackson 5 cover] (2017 Midwinter)

From the title alone, it gives off a school-themed vibe, so this is my recommendation as a choral piece.

It’s a nostalgic number released in 1970 by The Jackson 5, which included a young Michael Jackson.

It’s been used in commercials and is a song almost everyone has heard at least once.

The quintessential Motown sound would really stand out at a choral competition, and it would be great to sing it with some energy, clapping hands and stamping feet.

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Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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Go The DistanceAlan Menken

Go The Distance – Hercules Soundtrack | One Voice Children’s Choir Cover (Official Music Video)

Go the Distance is a song that’s well-loved as the theme for Disney’s Hercules.

It’s a work by Michael Bolton, who has produced many classic ballads.

Set to a gentle melody, it sings of the protagonist expanding his hopes for the future.

Since it’s quite slow and has a steady tempo, it seems relatively easy to sing.

By the way, if you want to know the lyrical content, you can also check a Japanese translation version.

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yamamoto

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Do-Re-MiSound Of Music

The Sound of Music (4/5) Movie CLIP – Do-Re-Mi (1965) HD

In Japan, it’s famous as “Do-Re-Mi,” with lyrics adapted by Peggy Hayama.

Originally, it was a song from the film The Sound of Music.

Many people sang it in kindergarten and elementary school.

Since it’s a song known across all generations, it can be recommended as an introduction.

A Whole New WorldAlan Menken

A Whole New World from Aladdin – The Magic of Voices (A Cappella)

This song is known as a memorable love ballad from the Disney film Aladdin.

Its lyrics, themed around love, adventure, and a longing for freedom, combined with a beautiful melody that blends classical and pop elements, are truly captivating.

Because the melody’s range is relatively narrow, it’s easy to sing in a choral setting.

It’s a perfect choice not only for choir concerts and competitions, but also for weddings and school events—any occasion where you want to sing together with one heart.

Do You Hear the People Sing?Claude-Michel Schönberg

Les Misérables | Do You Hear the People Sing?

A powerful message calling for freedom and justice lies at the heart of this signature work by French composer Claude-Michel Schönberg.

Its march-like, driving melody and uplifting, grand orchestration make a strong impression.

Written as a song for the musical Les Misérables, which premiered in 1980, it was also used in the 2012 film adaptation.

Performed on a choral stage, it is sure to resonate deeply with audiences.

Singing it together with others brings out the work’s sense of solidarity and hope even more vividly.