chorale

[ kuh-ral, -rahl, kaw-, koh-; kawr-uh l, kohr- ]

/ kəˈræl, -ˈrɑl, kɔ-, koʊ-; ˈkɔr əl, ˈkoʊr- /

a hymn, especially one with strong harmonization: a Bach chorale.

a group of singers specializing in singing church music; choir.

Origin of chorale

1835–45; < German Choral, short for Choralgesang, translation of Latin cantus chorālis choral singing; see choral

Of his compositions there remain four suites for orchestra, some small pieces for cembalo and some chorale arrangements.

Bach |Charles Francis Abdy Williams
Likewise the notation of a Chorale with a figured bass should not be omitted.

Musical Myths and Facts, Volume I (of 2) |Carl Engel
The work closes with a repetition of the chorale, set to the last verse of the hymn, sung without accompaniment.

The Standard Cantatas |George P. Upton
The text is taken from the Old Testament, together with part of a hymn or a chorale, and Bach called it a motet.

Bach |Charles Francis Abdy Williams

His ardent prayer to heaven is naturally expressed by a well-known Chorale, supported by most effective polyphonic harmony.

The Pianoforte Sonata |J.S. Shedlock

chorale

/ (kɒˈrɑːl) /

a slow stately hymn tune, esp of the Lutheran Church

mainly US a choir or chorus

C19: from German Choralgesang, translation of Latin cantus chorālis choral song