Choir Classical
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Choir Classical is defined less by a single form than by the sound of the ensemble itself: section blend, tuned vowels, controlled vibrato, and the massed lift of many singers moving together through liturgical, concert, and ceremonial repertoire. It ranges from cloistered chapel sonority to school, cathedral, civic, and festival choirs with orchestral backing.
History
As choirs became permanent institutions in churches, courts, universities, broadcasting houses, and civic music societies, repertory increasingly reflected the capabilities of named ensembles rather than only abstract vocal writing. Cathedral foundations in England, Lutheran church choirs in German lands, conservatory and radio choruses in continental Europe, and large American collegiate and festival choirs all defined the modern choir tradition, turning the ensemble itself into a recognizable classical “artist” with a house sound.
Defining artists
Essential listening
- I Was Glad — Choir of King's College, CambridgeSpotifyYouTube
- Hallelujah Chorus — The Tabernacle Choir at Temple SquareSpotifyYouTube
- Symphony No. 2 Resurrection Finale — Westminster Symphonic ChoirSpotifyYouTube
- Carmina Burana O Fortuna — Rundfunkchor BerlinSpotifyYouTube
- Mass in B Minor Sanctus — Monteverdi ChoirSpotifyYouTube
- The Last Words of David — St. Olaf ChoirSpotifyYouTube
Sources
- Encyclopaedia Britannica, “Choir” citeturn4search10
- Encyclopaedia Britannica, “Choral music” citeturn4search5
- Encyclopaedia Britannica, “Choral music: Sacred music” citeturn4search3