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

You Raise Me UpSECRET GARDEN

“You Raise Me Up” – cover by COLOR MUSIC Children’s Choir

You Raise Me UpSECRET GARDEN

If you’re looking for a moving piece for a choir competition, “You Raise Me Up” is one you can’t afford to miss.

Written as an expression of gratitude to those who support us in difficult times, the song has been covered by many artists.

Its stirring melody deepens the bonds among those who sing together and gives courage and hope to listeners.

The song’s structure also lends itself to rich choral expression, and the lyrics carry a powerful emotional impact.

There are videos of performances from actual competitions as well, which can serve as helpful references for practice.

Believing in the power of music and singing together as one, this song is a perfect fit for choir competitions.

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HallelujahPentatonix

Pentatonix – Hallelujah (Official Video)

HallelujahPentatonix

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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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.

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ChandelierSia

Chandelier (opb. Sia) | Steelworks A Cappella

ChandelierSia

Sia is one of Australia’s most iconic female singer-songwriters.

She has released many great songs, and among them, Chandelier is especially popular.

It might come as a surprise, but this song is actually very appealing as a choral piece.

It doesn’t feel forced into a choir arrangement—you can perform it as a true choral work.

So while singing in English can be challenging, it’s a song that even children with less-developed technical skills can sing.

Be sure to check it out.

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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.

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