Wonderful school festival / cultural festival

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

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.
Editor-in-Chief, RAG MUSICHane Keisuke
Editor-in-chief of RAG MUSIC. JFC-certified fact-checker. After working in a music studio and handling wedding sound, joined the RAG MUSIC editorial team in 2016. Experienced with a variety of instruments: marching band in elementary school, clarinet in junior high school wind ensemble, and drums in a band from high school onward. Drawing on my own musical activities and the experience gained through my work, I produce daily articles, including various song introductions, features on music festivals around the country, and live reports. In music, I enjoy not only rock from Japan and abroad but, lately, a wide range of J-pop as well.

When it comes time to choose a piece for the chorus competition, I think many people are thinking, “We don’t want to overlap with other classes!” Since it’s a special competition, you want to pick songs that are uniquely yours and show a performance that stands out from the rest.

In times like that, singing Western music is highly recommended! So in this article, I’ll introduce lots of Western songs that are great for choral performances.

I’ve included not only timeless classics but also recent pop hits, so please use this as a reference when selecting your piece.

[2026] Try Singing at the Choir Contest! Recommended Western Songs (71–80)

Joy to the WorldMariah Carey

Mariah Carey – Joy to the World (Official Audio)

Joy to the WorldMariah Carey

Mariah Carey sings a medley of the Christmas carol and Three Dog Night’s different song with the same title, “Joy to the World.” Mariah’s version has the sumptuous appeal of gospel.

I think it’s easy to cover as a choral piece.

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What a Wonderful WorldLouis Armstrong

Louis Armstrong – What A Wonderful World (Lyrics)

What a Wonderful WorldLouis Armstrong

This song was created with a prayer for a peaceful world.

It was also used in the film “Good Morning, Vietnam,” which is set during the Vietnam War, further emphasizing the song’s message and drawing attention.

It has even been featured in Japanese commercials, and can be considered one of Louis Armstrong’s most well-known songs.

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A Whole New WorldAlan Menken

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

A Whole New WorldAlan Menken

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.

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Do You Hear the People Sing?Claude-Michel Schönberg

Les Misérables | Do You Hear the People Sing?

Do You Hear the People Sing?Claude-Michel Schönberg

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.

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All For OneHigh School Musical Cast

High School Musical Cast – All For One (From “High School Musical 2”)

All For OneHigh School Musical Cast

A youthful finale by the entire cast, sung poolside in the summer! Featured in Disney Channel’s hit movie High School Musical 2, released in August 2007, this song overflows with the charm of Zac Efron and the rest of the cast.

In the film, it’s performed during a pool party scene where they’re free from work and reveling in their freedom, captivating audiences.

With themes of friendship and unity and a bright, energetic vibe, it’s perfect for anyone who wants to join voices with friends and sing as one.

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