[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.
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- A Must-See for Middle and High Schoolers! Recommended Free-Choice Songs for Choir Competitions Catalog
- [Choral Songs] Recommended for High School Students! A Comprehensive Showcase from Classics to the Newest J‑Pop
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[2026] Try Singing at the Choir Competition! Recommended Western Songs (51–60)
Take Me Home, Country RoadsOlivia Newton-John
It’s a song originally sung by John Denver and covered by Olivia Newton-John.
The original is famous as the state song of West Virginia.
Olivia Newton-John’s version is characterized by an opening that starts with a gospel-like chorus.
Many people have probably heard it in Studio Ghibli’s film “Whisper of the Heart.”
This Is MeKeala Settle
An inspiring song about self-affirmation born from the film The Greatest Showman.
Sung by American artist Keala Settle, the piece won Best Original Song at the 75th Golden Globe Awards.
In step with the film’s story, it gives voice to the courage and hope to confront prejudice and discrimination while being marginalized by society.
Settle, who portrays Lettie Lutz, the bearded lady and a member of the circus troupe, delivers a powerful vocal performance that underscores the importance of embracing individuality.
In choral settings, the song shines even brighter when each singer expresses their true self while connecting with their fellow performers.
By understanding the lyrics and practicing with the film’s narrative in mind, you can achieve a deeper level of expression.
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.
Rain On MeLady Gaga, Ariana Grande
A collaboration between Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande that races through the heart like a gale.
A Grammy-winning track, it’s truly worthy of being called a power anthem.
Riding a downpour-like surge of melody, it gives us the strength to overcome challenges and hardship.
Released in May 2020, it became a worldwide hit and is included on Gaga’s album Chromatica.
When performed at a choral competition, its energetic, uplifting vibe will resonate as a powerful force shared with your teammates.
It’s a hopeful number that gives courage to those who listen and unites those who sing.
[2026] Try Singing at the Choir Contest! Recommended Western Songs (61–70)
Stay With MeSam Smith
Singer-songwriter Sam Smith is known for his strikingly clear, high-toned voice.
Released in 2014, “Stay With Me” is one of his signature works and became a massive hit worldwide.
If you already know this song, you’ve probably noticed how well it suits choral performance.
In addition to its simple arrangement centered on piano and vocals, the latter half features harmonies.
Because of that, a choir can faithfully recreate the original atmosphere of the song.
Bad GuyBillie Eilish
Billie Eilish’s smash-hit “Bad Guy,” released in 2019.
Wait—Billie Eilish at a choral competition? That’s got to be impossible, right? Many people probably think so.
But don’t worry.
Although some aspects of the song are overshadowed by its stylish sound, it’s actually built on a very simple structure.
That means its appeal can be conveyed fully with voices alone.
If you want to change what’s considered standard at choral competitions, definitely give it a try.
Oh My GodAdele
When you think of choir competitions, gentle harmonies are the standard, right? This is a common trend in Japan, whereas overseas it’s not unusual for stylish or powerful, impactful pieces to be used in choir contests.
This piece, “Oh My God,” is the complete opposite of the Japanese choir competition style, and it was released by Adele in 2022.
It’s a work that can maintain high quality with vocals alone, but adding stomping will make it even more powerful.