RAG MusicSchool Festival
Wonderful school festival / cultural festival

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

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 These at Your Choir Competition! Recommended Western Songs (31–40)

ZombieThe Cranberries

Choir! Choir! Choir! sings The Cranberries “Zombie”
ZombieThe Cranberries
The Cranberries – Zombie (Official Music Video)

This song, one of The Cranberries’ signature tracks, was created in response to a terrorist attack in the UK in 1993.

The heavy guitar riff and Dolores O’Riordan’s powerful, commanding vocals give the track a sense of intensity and tension.

Although its political message stirred controversy, it became a worldwide hit and resonated with many people as a timeless classic.

It’s also striking as a choral piece, and it’s a track that’s sure to move anyone who listens.

The RoseBette Midler

It’s the theme song of the film “The Rose,” sung by the star Bette Midler.

Harumi Miyako covered it in Japanese, and it became the theme song for the Studio Ghibli film “Only Yesterday.” Both the lyrics and the melody are beautiful.

With its relaxed rhythm, it’s recommended even for those singing Western music for the first time.

Mamma MiaABBA

ABBA – Mamma Mia (Official Music Video)
Mamma MiaABBA

It’s one of ABBA’s signature songs.

A musical with the same title was produced and later adapted into a film, which brought renewed attention to the song.

Its lively rhythm, cute sound, and wonderful choral work really stand out.

I can recommend it as a choir piece with a female lead.

See You Again ft, Charlie PuthWiz Khalifa

Charlie Puth & Wiz Khalifa – See You Again | One Voice Children’s Choir Cover (Official Music Video)
See You Again ft, Charlie PuthWiz Khalifa

If you’re looking for Western pop music that resonates with a wide range of listeners—from young people to adults—“See You Again ft.

Charlie Puth” is a great recommendation.

This song was created when Paul Walker, the star of the Fast & Furious series, passed away, and as the title suggests, it centers on the theme of farewell.

While the rap verses require some ingenuity, it lends itself not only to gospel-style arrangements but also to choral arrangements.

Consider performing it at occasions such as graduation ceremonies.

Can’t Help Falling In LoveElvis Presley

Elvis Presley – Can’t Help Falling In Love (Official Audio)
Can't Help Falling In LoveElvis Presley

The legendary rock musician Elvis Presley is often called the best-selling solo artist in world history, and his songs remain hugely popular even today.

Among his works, a great choice for choral singing is “Can’t Help Falling in Love.” This signature ballad features beautifully captivating harmonies.

[2026] Try Singing These at Your Choir Contest! Recommended Western Songs (41–50)

ImagineJohn Lennon

John Lennon – Imagine HD
ImagineJohn Lennon

It’s a famous song from John Lennon’s solo work.

It opposes conflicts such as those between nations and religions, and sings of love and peace for humanity.

Apparently, the original version had already been written during the Beatles era.

It has a slow tempo and no drastic key changes, so it’s easy to sing.

High HopesPanic! At The Disco

Choral Reef – High Hopes (Panic! at the Disco)
High HopesPanic! At The Disco

Panic! At The Disco is one of the world’s most popular emo bands.

Their influence was so strong that at one point they were even restricted on the radio, but their messages always resonate with us.

One of their iconic songs is High Hopes.

It became a global hit as an anthem for people taking on new challenges.

Although it’s not exactly easy—since it kicks off right from the chorus—the impact when you nail it is outstanding.

Be sure to give it a listen.