Church choir

Church choir in Wales

A church choir, also known as a chorale, chorus, or simply a choir, is a musical ensemble of singers meant to lead the singing in church services. In the Anglican tradition, church choirs were maintained through the Reformation, unlike in many Reformed churches which moved entirely toward congregational singing.

The section of the church from which the choir sings is called the quire.

The etymology of the term comes from the latin word chorus which means ' dancing in a circle'.

Structure

Choirs are ordinarily made up of men and women of all ages. Some historic choirs are specifically boys choirs and are made up entirely of men. Most choirs are led by a conductor, choirmaster, or choir director.