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

HallelujahPentatonix

Pentatonix – Hallelujah (Official Video)

Pentatonix is an a cappella group that has gained popularity for their stunning harmonies and beatboxing.

Although it may come as a surprise since they often perform techno, they are actually skilled in traditional choral music as well.

Among their work, one cover song particularly polished to a high level is Hallelujah.

Because it’s a religious piece, it has been covered by many choirs and artists besides Pentatonix.

How about incorporating elements from each arrangement to create your own original chorus?

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Ryo

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When You Wish Upon A StarCliff Edwards

When You Wish Upon A Star – sung by Jiminy Cricket (Cliff Edwards)

It’s the theme song from the animated film Pinocchio.

There are many cover versions, including one by Louis Armstrong.

Its Japanese title is Hoshi ni Negai wo (“When You Wish Upon a Star”), and there are said to be multiple Japanese translations.

With its slow tempo and clear English pronunciation, it’s also recommended for children’s choirs.

Alone, Pt. IIAlan Walker & Ava Max

Alan Walker & Ava Max – Alone, Pt. II _ cover by COLOR MUSIC Choir

I also recommend “Alone, Pt.

II,” which really lets you make the most of powerful vocals.

It’s a work by Norwegian trackmaker Alan Walker and American singer-songwriter Ava Max.

The first half is calm, and it builds up rapidly toward the chorus, so you can showcase a dynamic, impactful voice.

Another appeal is that the lyrics portray a bond with someone important.

It should help deepen your connection even more through choral performance.

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Call Me MaybeCarly Rae Jepsen

Call Me Maybe – for Choir and Orchestra

Carly Rae Jepsen is a female singer-songwriter who gained popularity with her catchy, pop sound.

She became internationally famous with Call Me Maybe.

This song is a unique piece with a twist ending—the guy she likes turns out to be gay—so at first glance, it might seem unsuitable for a choral arrangement.

However, that’s not the case at all; depending on the piano accompaniment, it can fully maintain the quality of the original even as a choral piece.

It does require a good sense of rhythm and is more suited to advanced performers, but definitely give it a try.

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Ryo

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Shape Of YouEd Sheeran

Shape of You – Ed Sheeran (Gents Universitair Koor)

Ed Sheeran’s signature hit “Shape of You,” which became a massive global success in 2017.

Many people may have discovered Ed Sheeran through this song.

Although its tropical house-inspired sound might seem ill-suited for choral performance at first glance, it actually contains sections that work well for choir—especially the end of the chorus.

If you can create a clean harmony in the scat-like part that closes the chorus, the piece comes together beautifully.

It’s a challenging song, but definitely worth trying.

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The Neverending Story ThemeLimahl

Never Ending Story

It’s the theme song of the film with the same title.

Many people are sure to feel nostalgic.

Although many years have passed since its release and the film’s premiere, it’s still a very popular song.

I can recommend it as a choral piece for women.

Adults might be moved to tears as it brings back memories.

My WayNancy Sinatra Frank Sinatra

My Way (2008 Remastered)

It was originally a French song, but later English lyrics were added and it was released with vocals by Frank Sinatra.

It has been covered many times not only overseas but also in Japan.

It is also very popular as a graduation song.

The melody isn’t difficult, so it’s relatively easy to sing.