choir etymology

Etymology

The word "choir" comes from the Old French word "cuer," which in turn comes from the Latin word "chorus."

Meaning

A choir is a group of singers who perform together, usually in a religious context. Choirs can be of various sizes, from small groups of a few singers to large ensembles of hundreds of performers.

Origin

The concept of a choir has existed for thousands of years. In ancient Greece, choirs were an important part of religious festivals and theatrical performances. The early Christian church adopted the use of choirs, and they have been a part of Christian worship ever since.

Types of Choirs

There are many different types of choirs, each with its own unique sound and purpose. Some of the most common types of choirs include:

  • Cathedral choirs: These choirs are typically found in large cathedrals and perform a variety of sacred music, including masses, anthems, and motets.
  • Church choirs: These choirs are found in churches of all sizes and perform a variety of religious music, including hymns, spirituals, and gospel songs.
  • Community choirs: These choirs are open to all members of the community and perform a variety of secular and sacred music.
  • Children's choirs: These choirs are made up of children and perform a variety of music, including folk songs, children's songs, and spirituals.
  • Chamber choirs: These choirs are small, usually consisting of 12-18 singers, and perform a variety of sacred and secular music.

Choirs play an important role in many different cultures and traditions. They provide a way for people to come together and share their love of music, and they help to create a sense of community and belonging.

choir relate terms

  • chorus

    Etymology Late Latin chorus Greek khoros a dancing place from khoreia dance Me

  • verse

    Etymology The word verse comes from the Old French word vers which is derived from t

  • choir boy

    Etymology The term choir boy is derived from Choir From Middle English quir O

  • choir

    Etymology The word choir comes from the Old French word cuer which in turn comes fro

  • contrive

    Etymology Middle English contrive from Anglo French contriver from Latin contrōvār

  • quire

    Etymology and Meaning of Quire Etymology Quire derives from the Late Latin word q

  • chorale

    Etymology The word chorale comes from the Latin word choralis which means of or pe

  • clerestory

    Etymology Middle English clerestorye from Anglo Norman French clerestorie clerestoir

  • installment

    Etymology The word installment comes from the Middle French word installement which

  • console

    Etymology The word console is derived from the Latin term consolari meaning to comf

  • area

    Etymology The word area comes from the Latin word area which means open space or

  • sanctuary

    Etymology of Sanctuary The word sanctuary derives from the Latin word sanctuarium