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A1 noun #3,382 most common 15 min read

合唱

gasshō Top 3,382

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 合唱 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 合唱 in your Level:

At the A1 level, students should understand '合唱' (gasshō) as a basic noun referring to a group of people singing together, like a choir. You will most likely see it in simple sentences describing hobbies or school activities. For example, '私は合唱が好きです' (I like choral singing). At this stage, you don't need to worry about the complex musical theory behind it. Just remember that it involves more than one person singing. You might also see it in the context of '合唱部' (gasshō-bu), which is a choir club, a very common after-school activity in Japanese schools. Focus on the 'joint singing' aspect and how to say you like it or are doing it using '合唱する'. The word is straightforward because it is a direct noun-to-noun translation for 'choir' or 'chorus' in most basic contexts. Imagine a group of school children singing a simple song together; that is the quintessential A1 image of '合唱'. You should also learn to recognize the two kanji: 合 (joining) and 唱 (singing), as they are very descriptive of the word's meaning.

At the A2 level, you begin to use '合唱' in more descriptive sentences and understand its role as a 'suru-verb' (合唱する). You can talk about when and where choral singing happens, such as '文化祭で合唱します' (We will sing in a chorus at the culture festival). You should also become familiar with basic compound words like '合唱団' (gasshō-dan, a choir group/organization) and '合唱コンクール' (gasshō konkūru, choir competition). At this level, you can start to distinguish between '合唱' and other types of singing like '独唱' (solo). You might describe your experiences in a choir or express your desire to join one. The focus here is on the social aspect—singing with others. You should also be able to understand simple instructions related to choral singing, such as 'みんなで合唱しましょう' (Let's all sing together in a chorus). Understanding that '合唱' is a common part of Japanese school life will help you relate to many Japanese cultural stories and media at this level.

At the B1 level, you should be able to discuss '合唱' in terms of its musical qualities and its impact on people. You might use phrases like '美しい合唱' (beautiful choral singing) or '感動的な合唱' (moving choral singing). You can describe the structure of a choir using terms like '混声合唱' (konsei gasshō, mixed-voice choir) or '女声合唱' (josei gasshō, female choir). You should also understand the nuance between '合唱' and 'コーラス', knowing that '合唱' is more formal and often used for classical or school-related music. At this level, you can talk about the effort required for a choir to sound good, using verbs like '練習する' (to practice) and '合わせる' (to harmonize/match). You might also encounter the word in more literary or metaphorical contexts, such as the 'chorus of insects' (虫の合唱) in a story or poem. Your ability to use '合唱' in complex sentences with various particles (like 'で' for method or 'を' for object) should be well-developed.

At the B2 level, you can engage in detailed discussions about the history and cultural importance of '合唱' in Japan. You might analyze why choral competitions are so popular in Japanese schools and how they contribute to the concept of 'Wa' (harmony). You should be comfortable using technical terms like '指揮者' (shikisha, conductor), '伴奏' (bansō, accompaniment), and 'パート分け' (pāto-wake, part division). You can also distinguish between '合唱' and '斉唱' (unison) or '重唱' (ensemble) with ease. At this level, you might read articles about the health benefits of choral singing for the elderly or the challenges faced by professional choirs. You can express nuanced opinions, such as '合唱は個人の声を消すのではなく、調和させるものだ' (Choral singing isn't about erasing individual voices, but about harmonizing them). You are also expected to understand the word when used in formal announcements, critiques, or academic discussions about music education.

At the C1 level, your understanding of '合唱' extends to its stylistic variations and its role in the broader landscape of Japanese performing arts. You can appreciate the difference between 'A Cappella' (無伴奏合唱) and accompanied choral works. You can discuss the evolution of choral music in Japan since the Meiji era and its integration of Western harmonic structures with Japanese melodic sensibilities. You might explore the works of famous Japanese choral composers like Shin'ichirō Ikebe or Michio Mamiya. At this level, you can use '合唱' in highly formal or poetic language, perhaps in a speech or a scholarly essay. You understand the subtle emotional connotations the word carries in graduation ceremonies and other life milestones in Japan. Your vocabulary includes related but rare terms like '交響合唱' (symphonic chorus) or '合唱幻想曲' (choral fantasy). You can also critique a performance by focusing on the 'blending' (ブレンド) and 'balance' (バランス) of the voices, using '合唱' as the central concept.

At the C2 level, you possess a native-like grasp of '合唱' and its manifold implications. You can discuss the sociological aspects of choral singing in Japan, such as its role in post-war reconstruction and national identity. You can interpret complex choral scores and discuss the linguistic challenges of setting Japanese text to Western-style choral harmonies (e.g., the issues of pitch accent). You are capable of conducting a professional-level discussion or writing a thesis on the pedagogical value of '合唱' in the Japanese curriculum. You understand the most obscure references to choral music in literature and can use the word metaphorically in sophisticated ways to describe social phenomena or natural events. Your command of the word is such that you can navigate the professional choral world in Japan, from auditioning for the Tokyo Philharmonic Chorus to discussing the technicalities of vocal production in a choral setting. The word '合唱' is no longer just a vocabulary item but a cultural and artistic concept that you can manipulate with precision and depth.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

合唱 in 30 Seconds

合唱 (Gasshō) means a choir or choral singing, involving multiple voices in harmony.
It is a central part of Japanese school life, especially during autumn festivals.
As a verb, it becomes '合唱する' (to sing in a chorus).
It is distinct from '斉唱' (unison) and '合奏' (instrumental ensemble).

The Japanese word 合唱 (Gasshō) is a foundational noun in the Japanese lexicon, particularly within the context of education, community, and the arts. At its core, it refers to a chorus or a choir—a group of people singing together in harmony. The kanji themselves offer a window into the word's soul: 合 (ga) means 'to meet,' 'to join,' or 'to fit together,' while 唱 (shō) means 'to chant' or 'to sing.' Together, they describe the beautiful act of voices meeting and fitting together to create a unified sound. This isn't just about a random group of people singing the same melody (which is often called 斉唱 - seishō, or unison); 合唱 specifically implies parts—soprano, alto, tenor, and bass—working in tandem to create a complex, harmonic structure.

Cultural Significance: In Japan, 合唱 is more than just a musical term; it is a rite of passage. From elementary school through high school, students participate in 'Gasshō-kon' (choir competitions). These events are high-stakes and high-emotion, teaching students the value of 'Wa' (harmony) and collective effort.

You will encounter this word in various settings. In a school setting, it refers to the class choir. In a professional setting, it refers to a philharmonic chorus. In a religious context, though less common than Western 'choirs,' it can refer to Buddhist chanting groups or Christian church choirs. The word also functions as a Suru-verb (合唱する), meaning 'to sing in a chorus.' This versatility makes it an essential term for anyone interested in Japanese social dynamics, as the 'choir' is often used as a metaphor for a well-functioning, harmonious society where individual voices blend for the greater good.

クラス全員で心を一つにして合唱しました。
(The whole class united their hearts and sang in a chorus.)

When discussing musical compositions, 合唱 refers to the choral arrangement of a piece. If you are looking at a musical score, you might see '合唱曲' (gasshō-kyoku), which means a piece of music specifically written for a choir. The emotional weight of 合唱 in Japan cannot be overstated; the graduation song 'Tabidachi no Hi ni' is a quintessential example of a choral piece that brings almost every Japanese person to tears, reminding them of their own school days and the power of collective singing.

Common Usage: Used frequently in education (school festivals), media (NHK Choral Cup), and community centers where hobbyist choirs practice weekly.

彼は合唱団のテノールを担当しています。
(He is in charge of the tenor section in the choir.)

Historically, choral singing was introduced to Japan during the Meiji Restoration as part of the modernization of the education system. Before this, traditional Japanese music was largely monophonic or focused on heterophony. The introduction of Western harmony through 合唱 was a radical shift in how Japanese people experienced music. Today, Japan boasts one of the most active choral scenes in the world, with thousands of amateur and professional groups performing everything from Bach to modern J-Pop arrangements.

この曲は合唱用に編曲されています。
(This song has been arranged for a chorus.)

In summary, when you use the word 合唱, you are evoking a sense of community, harmony, and shared effort. It is a word that resonates deeply with the Japanese values of cooperation and the beauty found in collective expression. Whether you are talking about a professional performance at Suntory Hall or a group of children practicing for their school festival, 合唱 captures the essence of voices joining together to create something greater than the sum of its parts.

放課後の音楽室から合唱の声が聞こえてくる。
(The sound of a choir can be heard from the music room after school.)

Kanji Breakdown: 合 (Join) + 唱 (Sing) = Joining voices to sing. It's a very literal and beautiful construction.

第九の合唱は圧巻でした。
(The chorus in Beethoven's Ninth was overwhelming.)

Using 合唱 (Gasshō) correctly involves understanding its role as both a noun and a component of a compound verb. In its simplest form, it acts as a noun meaning 'choir' or 'choral singing.' For example, you can say '合唱が好きです' (I like choral singing). However, to describe the action of singing together, you must add 'する' (suru), making it '合唱する' (to sing in a chorus). This is a common pattern for many Japanese nouns of Chinese origin (kango).

Basic Sentence Structure: [Subject] + は + 合唱 + [Verb/Particle]. Example: 私は合唱部に入っています。(I am in the choir club.)

When you want to specify what you are singing, you use the particle 'を' (wo). For instance, '第九を合唱する' (to sing the Ninth Symphony in a chorus). If you are describing the quality of the singing, you might use adverbs like '美しく' (beautifully) or '力強く' (powerfully). Because 合唱 implies multiple people, the subject is often a group, such as 'クラス' (class), '部員' (club members), or '観客' (audience).

卒業式で「旅立ちの日に」を合唱しました。
(We sang 'Tabidachi no Hi ni' in a chorus at the graduation ceremony.)

In more advanced contexts, 合唱 can be used metaphorically. For example, '虫の合唱' (mushi no gasshō) refers to the 'chorus of insects' singing on a summer night. This poetic use highlights how the word transcends human music and applies to any group of sounds that seem to harmonize or occur simultaneously in a rhythmic way. Similarly, '不満の合唱' (fuman no gasshō) could be used to describe a 'chorus of complaints' from a crowd.

Verb Conjugation: 合唱する (Plain), 合唱します (Polite), 合唱した (Past), 合唱している (Continuous/State).

Another important aspect is the use of 'で' (de) to indicate the method or setting. '混声三部合唱で歌う' (To sing in a three-part mixed chorus). Here, 'で' marks the specific arrangement or style of the choral performance. If you are participating in a competition, you would use '合唱コンクールに出場する' (To participate in a choral competition). The word 'コンクール' (konkūru, from French 'concours') is almost always paired with 合唱 when talking about school events.

秋の夜長に、鈴虫の合唱が響いている。
(In the long autumn nights, the chorus of bell crickets resonates.)

In formal writing, you might encounter '合唱祭' (gasshō-sai), which is a choral festival. This is slightly different from a competition (konkūru) as it focuses more on the celebration of music rather than ranking. When describing the components of a choir, you use 'パート' (pāto) for sections, such as 'ソプラノパート' (soprano part). You might say '合唱のパート練習をする' (To practice the choral parts).

プロの合唱団による演奏会が行われた。
(A concert by a professional choir was held.)

Finally, consider the nuances of '合唱' versus 'コーラス' (kōrasu). While they are often interchangeable, '合唱' feels more formal and academic, often associated with classical music and school education. 'コーラス' is frequently used in the context of pop music (backup singers) or casual hobby groups. However, 'コーラス部' and '合唱部' are both used for school clubs, with '合唱部' being the more traditional designation.

彼女は合唱の指揮者を務めている。
(She serves as the conductor of the choir.)

Key Phrases: 合唱曲を練習する (Practice a choral piece), 合唱団に入る (Join a choir), 合唱の練習 (Choir practice).

その美しい合唱に、聴衆は深く感動した。
(The audience was deeply moved by the beautiful choral singing.)

If you spend any time in Japan, particularly during the autumn months, you are almost guaranteed to hear the word 合唱 (Gasshō). Autumn is the season of 'Bunkasai' (culture festivals) and 'Gasshō-sai' (choir festivals). During this time, the hallways of every junior high and high school in the country echo with the sounds of students practicing their parts. You'll hear teachers shouting, 'もっと大きな声で合唱して!' (Sing in a chorus with a louder voice!) or students discussing their '合唱コンクール' strategies. It is a word deeply embedded in the 'Seishun' (youthful springtime) narrative of Japanese life.

Public Media: NHK, Japan's public broadcaster, hosts the 'NHK National School Music Contest.' It is televised nationally, and the word '合唱' is used constantly by commentators, conductors, and students alike.

Another common place to hear this word is on television news or documentaries about community life. Japan has a rapidly aging population, and many senior citizens join 'Mama-san Chorus' or 'Silver Chorus' groups to stay active and social. In these contexts, you'll hear the word used with a sense of warmth and health. '合唱は健康にいい' (Choral singing is good for your health) is a common sentiment expressed in morning talk shows aimed at the elderly.

テレビで全国合唱コンクールの様子が放送されている。
(The national choral competition is being broadcast on TV.)

In the world of classical music, if you visit concert halls like Tokyo Bunka Kaikan or the NHK Hall, you will see '合唱' prominently displayed on programs. One of the most famous musical traditions in Japan is the year-end performance of Beethoven's Ninth Symphony, known affectionately as 'Daiku' (The Ninth). Thousands of amateur singers across the country participate in 'Daiku no Gasshō' (The Chorus of the Ninth) every December. Hearing the word in this context evokes a sense of grandeur and the closing of the year.

The Karaoke Context: Even in a casual karaoke box, if a popular song comes on and everyone starts singing the melody together, someone might shout, 'みんなで合唱しよう!' (Let's all sing together in a chorus!).

You will also see the word in bookstores. There are entire sections dedicated to '合唱譜' (choral scores). These include arrangements of popular J-pop songs, traditional Japanese folk songs (min'yo), and Western classical pieces. The word is ubiquitous in the 'Gakufu' (sheet music) industry. Furthermore, in the context of nature, as mentioned before, the 'chorus of cicadas' (semi no gasshō) is a staple phrase in Japanese literature and daily conversation during the sweltering humid summers. It describes the overwhelming, rhythmic sound of thousands of cicadas singing in unison.

夏の午後、セミの合唱が降り注いでくる。
(On a summer afternoon, the chorus of cicadas pours down.)

Lastly, in religious or spiritual settings, while 'choir' might be the English translation, the word '合唱' is used to describe the collective chanting of sutras in some modern Buddhist sects that have adopted more musical approaches, or in Japanese Christian churches. It represents a bridge between the secular and the sacred through the medium of the human voice. Wherever people gather to synchronize their voices, '合唱' is the word that defines that moment.

教会の合唱団がクリスマスソングを歌っている。
(The church choir is singing Christmas songs.)

Nature's Chorus: The phrase 'カエルの合唱' (kaeru no gasshō - chorus of frogs) is actually the title of a very famous children's nursery rhyme in Japan.

「カエルの合唱」は誰でも知っている童謡だ。
('The Frog Chorus' is a nursery rhyme that everyone knows.)

For English speakers, one of the most common mistakes when using 合唱 (Gasshō) is confusing it with the English word 'chorus' as it pertains to the structure of a song. In English, we often say 'the chorus of the song' to refer to the catchy, repeated refrain. In Japanese, if you use '合唱' in this context, it sounds very strange. For the refrain of a pop song, you should use the word サビ (Sabi). Using 合唱 implies that a whole group of people are singing that part, which might not be the case.

Mistake: Chorus vs. Refrain: Incorrect: この歌の合唱が好きです。(I like the chorus [refrain] of this song.)
Correct: この歌のサビが好きです。

Another frequent error is the confusion between 合唱 (Gasshō) and 斉唱 (Seishō). While both involve group singing, 斉唱 refers specifically to singing in unison—everyone singing the exact same melody at the same pitch (or in octaves). 合唱, on the other hand, implies harmony and multiple parts (polyphony). If you are at a sporting event and everyone sings the national anthem together in one voice, that is 斉唱. If a trained choir sings it with harmonies, that is 合唱. Using the wrong term can make you sound uneducated about music.

国歌斉唱をお願いします。
(Please join in the unison singing of the national anthem.)

A subtle but important distinction exists between 合唱 (Gasshō) and 合奏 (Gassō). Note the difference in the second kanji. 合奏 (Gassō) refers to an instrumental ensemble or orchestra playing together. Because the pronunciations are similar (Gasshō vs. Gassō), learners often mix them up. Remember: 唱 (shō) has the 'mouth' radical (口) on the left, which indicates it involves the voice/mouth. 奏 (sō) relates to playing an instrument.

Mistake: Confusing with Ensemble: Incorrect: 吹奏楽部が合唱しています。(The brass band is singing in a chorus.)
Correct: 吹奏楽部が合奏しています。(The brass band is performing together.)

In terms of grammar, learners sometimes forget that 合唱 is a noun that needs 'する' to become a verb. You cannot say '私たちは合唱した' to mean 'We chorused' without the 'する'. Also, be careful with the particle 'と' (to) vs 'を' (wo). If you say 'Aさんと合唱する', it means 'to sing in a choir with Person A.' If you say '第九を合唱する', it means 'to sing the Ninth Symphony in a chorus.' Mixing these up can change the meaning of your sentence significantly.

彼は友達と合唱を楽しんでいる。
(He is enjoying choral singing with his friends.)

Lastly, watch out for the pronunciation of the long 'o' sound. It is gasshō (long o), not gassho (short o). In Japanese, vowel length is phonemic, meaning it changes the meaning. While there isn't a common word 'gassho' that would cause immediate confusion, failing to elongate the 'o' makes your Japanese sound clipped and unnatural. Practice saying 'ga-ssho-oo' with a clear, held final vowel to sound more native.

× がっしょ (Gassho)
○ がっしょう (Gasshō)

Summary of Pitfalls: 1. Don't use it for the 'sabi' (refrain). 2. Don't confuse it with 'seishō' (unison). 3. Don't confuse it with 'gassō' (instrumental). 4. Don't forget the 'suru'.

To truly master 合唱 (Gasshō), it's helpful to understand its 'neighbors' in the Japanese musical vocabulary. The most direct alternative is コーラス (Kōrasu). As a loanword from English 'chorus,' it is used frequently in popular music and casual settings. While 合唱 feels academic and 'classical,' コーラス feels modern and 'pop.' If you are talking about backup singers for a J-Pop star, you would always use コーラス, never 合唱.

Comparison: 合唱 vs. コーラス: 合唱: Formal, school clubs, classical music, focus on harmony parts.
コーラス: Informal, pop music backup, hobby groups, broader usage.

Another related term is 斉唱 (Seishō), which we touched upon in the common mistakes section. To reiterate, 斉唱 is unison singing. If a group of people is just singing the melody together without any harmonies, that is 斉唱. In a school setting, you might hear '校歌斉唱' (Kōka seishō), which means the unison singing of the school song. This is a very common phrase during formal school assemblies.

式典の最後に校歌を斉唱した。
(We sang the school song in unison at the end of the ceremony.)

If you want to talk about singing alone, the word is 独唱 (Dokushō). This is the opposite of 合唱. If a choir member steps forward to sing a solo part, that specific part is a 独唱. In a musical program, you might see 'ソプラノ独唱' (Soprano Solo). Another term for singing in a small group, like a duet or quartet, is 重唱 (Jūshō). While 合唱 implies a large group (a choir), 重唱 implies a small ensemble where there is only one person per vocal part.

Comparison: 合唱 vs. 重唱: 合唱: Multiple people per part (large group).
重唱: One person per part (small ensemble).

For instrumental music, the equivalent of 合唱 is 合奏 (Gassō). This is used for orchestras, brass bands, or any group of instruments playing together. If you are a member of a school's 'Suisōgaku-bu' (brass band), you will be doing a lot of 合奏. If you are in the 'Gasshō-bu' (choir club), you will be doing 合唱. Both words share the '合' (joining) kanji, emphasizing the collective nature of the performance.

ピアノとバイオリンの二重奏を聴いた。
(I listened to a duet of piano and violin.)

Finally, consider the word 唱和 (Shōwa). This refers to a group of people repeating or calling out a slogan or a cheer in response to a leader. You might see this at a political rally or a corporate meeting where employees shout the company's goals together. While it involves 'joining voices' (唱), it is not musical in the way 合唱 is. It is more about vocalizing in unison for the purpose of solidarity or agreement.

スローガンを全員で唱和した。
(Everyone chanted the slogan in unison.)

Quick Reference Table: Singing (Harmony): 合唱 | Singing (Unison): 斉唱 | Singing (Solo): 独唱 | Playing (Instruments): 合奏 | Chanting (Slogans): 唱和.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The kanji 唱 (sing) actually contains the kanji for 'sun' or 'bright' (昌), which itself is made of two suns. This suggests a bright, clear vocalization.

Pronunciation Guide

UK ɡasːhoː

US ɡɑsːhoʊ

Japanese pitch accent is usually Heiban (flat), so both syllables are relatively even, or Atamadaka (high on the first).

Rhymes With

熱唱 (Nesshō - passionate singing) 独唱 (Dokushō - solo) 斉唱 (Seishō - unison) 合奏 (Gassō - ensemble) 発唱 (Hasshō - starting a song) 愛唱 (Aishō - favorite song) 輪唱 (Rinshō - round/canon) 伝唱 (Denshō - singing down through generations)

Common Errors

Pronouncing it as 'gassho' (short o) instead of 'gasshō' (long o).
Confusing it with 'gassō' (instrumental ensemble).
Failing to double the 's' sound (geminate consonant).
Using an English 'r' sound instead of the Japanese 'sh' which is softer.
Misplacing the pitch accent, making it sound like 'gas' (petrol).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The kanji are common but the second one (唱) has several strokes. Easy once recognized.

Writing 3/5

Writing 唱 requires attention to the radicals and stroke order.

Speaking 1/5

Pronunciation is simple, just remember the long 'o'.

Listening 2/5

Easy to hear, but don't confuse with 'gassō'.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

歌う音楽学校一緒声

Learn Next

独唱斉唱指揮伴奏和音

Advanced

ポリフォニー対位法無伴奏ベルカント交響曲

Grammar to Know

Suru-verbs

合唱する (Gasshō-suru)

Noun + 部 (Club)

合唱部 (Gasshō-bu)

Noun + 団 (Group)

合唱団 (Gasshō-dan)

Noun + 曲 (Piece/Song)

合唱曲 (Gasshō-kyoku)

Noun + 祭 (Festival)

合唱祭 (Gasshō-sai)

Examples by Level

合唱が好きです。

I like choral singing.

Simple [Noun] + [Particle] + [Adjective] structure.

学校で合唱をします。

We sing in a chorus at school.

Using '合唱' as the object of 'します'.

これは合唱の曲です。

This is a choral song.

Using the possessive particle 'の' to describe the song.

みんなで合唱しましょう。

Let's all sing together in a chorus.

The '～ましょう' form indicates an invitation.

彼は合唱部です。

He is in the choir club.

Noun + 'です' to indicate membership or state.

きれいな合唱ですね。

It's a beautiful chorus, isn't it?

Using 'きれいな' as an adjective and 'ね' as a tag question.

合唱の練習があります。

There is choir practice.

'あります' indicates existence or occurrence.

合唱を聴くのが好きです。

I like listening to choirs.

'～のが好き' turns the verb '聴く' into a noun phrase.

文化祭でクラス全員で合唱しました。

The whole class sang in a chorus at the culture festival.

Use of 'で' for location and '全員で' for group action.

合唱コンクールで優勝したいです。

I want to win the choir competition.

'～たいです' expresses desire.

毎週日曜日に教会で合唱しています。

I sing in a choir at church every Sunday.

'～ています' indicates a habitual action.

合唱のパートはソプラノです。

My choir part is soprano.

Specifying a sub-category with 'の'.

有名な合唱団のコンサートに行きました。

I went to a concert by a famous choir.

Using '合唱団' to refer to the group.

この歌を合唱用にアレンジしました。

I arranged this song for a chorus.

'～用に' means 'for the purpose of'.

先生が合唱の指揮をしています。

The teacher is conducting the choir.

'指揮' (conducting) is often paired with '合唱'.

合唱は心を一つにするのにいいです。

Choral singing is good for uniting hearts.

'～のにいい' means 'good for [purpose]'.

その合唱団のハーモニーは完璧だった。

The harmony of that choir was perfect.

Focus on the noun 'ハーモニー' as a quality of '合唱'.

放課後、音楽室から美しい合唱が聞こえてきた。

After school, a beautiful chorus could be heard from the music room.

'聞こえてくる' describes a sound reaching the listener.

混声三部合唱で「翼をください」を歌った。

We sang 'Tsubasa wo Kudasai' in a three-part mixed chorus.

Technical description of the choral arrangement.

合唱の練習を通して、クラスの仲が深まった。

Through choir practice, the class became closer.

'～を通して' (through/via) indicates the medium of change.

彼は合唱の経験が豊富です。

He has a lot of experience in choral singing.

'経験が豊富' means 'rich in experience'.

合唱祭には多くの市民が参加した。

Many citizens participated in the choral festival.

'合唱祭' refers to a festival event.

この曲は合唱の定番曲として知られている。

This song is known as a standard choral piece.

'～として知られている' means 'known as'.

秋の夜、虫たちの合唱が心地よい。

On autumn nights, the chorus of insects is pleasant.

Metaphorical use of '合唱' for nature.

合唱コンクールでは、歌唱力だけでなく表現力も問われる。

In choir competitions, not only singing ability but also expressive power is judged.

'～だけでなく～も' (not only... but also).

何百人もの声が重なり合う大合唱に圧倒された。

I was overwhelmed by the grand chorus of hundreds of voices overlapping.

'重なり合う' (overlap) describes the texture of the sound.

その合唱曲は、現代的な不協和音を取り入れている。

That choral piece incorporates modern dissonant chords.

Technical musical vocabulary used with '合唱曲'.

合唱団のメンバーは、皆プロ意識を持って練習に励んでいる。

All members of the choir are working hard at practice with a professional mindset.

'プロ意識' (professional mindset) and '励む' (to strive).

このホールは、合唱の響きを最大限に引き出す設計になっている。

This hall is designed to bring out the resonance of the chorus to the maximum.

'～設計になっている' (is designed to be).

合唱における指揮者の役割は、単にリズムを取るだけではない。

The role of a conductor in a choir is not just to keep the rhythm.

'～における' (in/as for) defines the context.

彼女は長年、合唱指導者として地域社会に貢献してきた。

She has contributed to the local community as a choir instructor for many years.

'～として貢献する' (contribute as).

合唱は、異なる個性が一つの響きを作る素晴らしい芸術だ。

Choral singing is a wonderful art where different personalities create a single sound.

Abstract and philosophical description.

日本の合唱界における彼の功績は極めて大きい。

His achievements in the Japanese choral world are extremely significant.

'～界' (the world/circle of) and '功績' (achievements).

無伴奏合唱ならではの、澄んだ響きが会場を満たした。

The clear resonance unique to a cappella singing filled the venue.

'～ならではの' (unique to/only possible with).

その作曲家は、日本語のイントネーションを活かした合唱曲を書く。

That composer writes choral music that makes use of Japanese intonation.

'～を活かした' (making the most of).

合唱団のバランスを整えるために、配置を工夫した。

To adjust the balance of the choir, the seating arrangement was carefully devised.

'工夫する' (to devise/figure out).

宗教曲としての合唱は、崇高な精神性を感じさせる。

Choral music as religious music evokes a sense of sublime spirituality.

'～を感じさせる' (makes one feel).

彼は合唱の編曲において、独自の色彩感を発揮している。

In his choral arrangements, he demonstrates a unique sense of color.

'色彩感' used metaphorically for musical tone.

合唱という形態は、民主主義的な精神を象徴しているとも言える。

It could be said that the form of the chorus symbolizes a democratic spirit.

'～とも言える' (it can also be said that).

緻密に構成された合唱のポリフォニーが、聴衆を魅了した。

The meticulously constructed polyphony of the chorus captivated the audience.

'緻密に構成された' (meticulously constructed).

戦後復興期において、合唱は人々の荒んだ心を癒やす大きな力となった。

During the post-war reconstruction period, choral singing became a great power that healed people's weary hearts.

Historical analysis using formal vocabulary like '復興期' and '荒んだ'.

合唱における日本語の歌唱法は、西洋のベルカント唱法とは異なるアプローチが必要だ。

Japanese singing methods in chorus require a different approach than Western bel canto methods.

Technical comparison of vocal techniques.

この合唱幻想曲は、オーケストラと合唱が見事に融合した傑作である。

This choral fantasy is a masterpiece where the orchestra and chorus are brilliantly fused.

High-level artistic critique.

合唱という行為が個人のアイデンティティと集団の調和をいかに両立させるか、という問い。

The question of how the act of choral singing reconciles individual identity with group harmony.

Philosophical inquiry using 'いかに～か'.

彼の指揮は、合唱団からこれまでにない繊細なピアニッシモを引き出した。

His conducting elicited an unprecedentedly delicate pianissimo from the choir.

Specific musical terminology ('pianissimo').

伝統的な民謡を合唱に昇華させる試みが、各地で行われている。

Attempts to sublimate traditional folk songs into choral works are being made in various regions.

'昇華させる' (to sublimate/elevate).

合唱のダイナミズムは、個々の声が共鳴し合うことで生まれる倍音にある。

The dynamism of a chorus lies in the overtones created by the resonance of individual voices.

Scientific/Acoustical explanation.

多声音楽としての合唱の歴史を紐解くと、人類の叡智の変遷が見て取れる。

Unraveling the history of choral music as polyphony reveals the transitions of human wisdom.

'紐解く' (to unravel/examine) and '叡智' (wisdom).

Synonyms

コーラス斉唱唱和合唱団重唱

Antonyms

独唱ソロ

Common Collocations

合唱部

合唱コンクール

合唱曲

合唱団

合唱祭

大合唱

合唱譜

合唱指揮

混声合唱

合唱練習

Common Phrases

合唱する

— To sing in a chorus. It is the verb form of the noun.

みんなで合唱しましょう。

合唱団に入る

— To join a choir. Usually refers to a club or professional group.

大学生になったら合唱団に入りたい。

合唱コンクールに出る

— To participate in a choir competition.

中学時代は毎年合唱コンクールに出た。

合唱の伴奏

— The accompaniment for a choir, usually piano.

彼女は合唱の伴奏がとても上手だ。

合唱のパート

— A specific vocal part in a choir (soprano, alto, etc.).

合唱のパートを練習する。

虫の合唱

— The sound of many insects chirping together.

秋の夜長に虫の合唱が聞こえる。

不満の合唱

— A metaphorical use meaning a collective outcry of complaints.

増税に不満の合唱が上がった。

全校合唱

— A chorus involving the entire school.

全校合唱で校歌を歌う。

第九の合唱

— The chorus in Beethoven's 9th Symphony.

年末に第九の合唱に参加する。

合唱が響く

— The chorus resonates/sounds.

体育館に合唱が響き渡った。

Often Confused With

合唱 vs 斉唱

Unison singing (everyone sings the same melody) vs. Harmony.

合唱 vs 合奏

Instrumental ensemble vs. Vocal chorus.

合唱 vs コーラス

Loanword often used for pop backup vs. Formal choir.

Idioms & Expressions

"カエルの合唱"

— The croaking of frogs; also a famous nursery rhyme.

田んぼからカエルの合唱が聞こえる。

Neutral

"セミの合唱"

— The loud, collective buzzing of cicadas in summer.

セミの合唱で目が覚めた。

Neutral

"不平不満の合唱"

— A situation where everyone is complaining at once.

新しい規則に不平不満の合唱が起きた。

Informal

"賛成の合唱"

— A collective voice of agreement.

彼の提案に賛成の合唱が沸いた。

Neutral

"天使の合唱"

— Metaphor for extremely beautiful, pure singing.

その子供たちの歌声は、まるで天使の合唱のようだった。

Literary

"野鳥の合唱"

— The collective singing of wild birds, usually in the morning.

森の中で野鳥の合唱を聴く。

Neutral

"心の合唱"

— A poetic phrase for spiritual or emotional unity.

私たちは心の合唱で結ばれている。

Literary

"嵐の合唱"

— The collective sounds of a storm (wind, rain, thunder).

外は嵐の合唱が吹き荒れている。

Literary

"勝利の合唱"

— Collective singing or cheering after a victory.

試合後、勝利の合唱が響いた。

Neutral

"沈黙の合唱"

— An oxymoron used to describe a powerful, shared silence.

その場には沈黙の合唱が流れていた。

Literary

Easily Confused

合唱 vs 合奏 (Gassō)

Similar pronunciation and shared first kanji.

Gassō is for instruments (piano, violin, etc.), while Gasshō is for voices.

吹奏楽部は合奏をします。合唱部は合唱をします。

合唱 vs 斉唱 (Seishō)

Both involve groups singing.

Seishō is everyone singing the same note (unison). Gasshō is singing in parts (harmony).

国歌斉唱。第九の合唱。

合唱 vs 独唱 (Dokushō)

Both are types of vocal performance.

Dokushō is one person (solo). Gasshō is many people.

彼女は独唱も合唱も得意です。

合唱 vs 重唱 (Jūshō)

Both involve multiple singers.

Jūshō is a small group (1 person per part). Gasshō is a large group (many per part).

四重唱はアンサンブルです。合唱はクワイアです。

合唱 vs 唱和 (Shōwa)

Shared second kanji.

Shōwa is chanting slogans or cheering. Gasshō is musical singing.

スローガンを唱和する。

Sentence Patterns

私は[Noun]が好きです。

私は合唱が好きです。

[Place]で合唱をします。

学校で合唱をします。

[Event]のために合唱を練習する。

文化祭のために合唱を練習する。

[Subject]は[Quality]合唱を披露した。

合唱団は素晴らしい合唱を披露した。

[Concept]としての合唱は[Description]だ。

芸術としての合唱は奥が深い。

[Historical Context]において、合唱は[Role]を果たした。

明治時代において、合唱は啓蒙の役割を果たした。

みんなで[Verb]ましょう。

みんなで合唱しましょう。

[Verb-dictionary]のが好きです。

合唱を聴くのが好きです。

Word Family

Nouns

合唱団

合唱曲

合唱祭

合唱部

Verbs

合唱する

Adjectives

合唱的な

指揮

伴奏

和音

旋律

楽譜

How to Use It

frequency

Very frequent in school and community contexts; moderately frequent in general media.

Common Mistakes

Using 合唱 for the 'refrain' of a song. → サビ (Sabi)
合唱 refers to a choir; sabi refers to the musical structure.
Confusing 合唱 (Gasshō) with 合奏 (Gassō). → 合唱 for voices, 合奏 for instruments.
One is vocal, the other is instrumental. The kanji 唱 (sing) vs 奏 (play) is the key.
Saying '合唱だ' instead of '合唱する' for the action. → 合唱する (Gasshō-suru)
It is a suru-verb. You need 'suru' to express the act of singing.
Confusing 合唱 with 斉唱. → 合唱 for harmony, 斉唱 for unison.
If there are no harmonies, it is technically not a 'gasshō'.
Pronouncing it 'Gassho' (short o). → Gasshō (long o).
Long vowels are crucial in Japanese for correct meaning and rhythm.

Tips

Watch a Bunkasai

If you ever visit a Japanese school festival, the choir competition is a must-see. It's where you'll see the word '合唱' in its most passionate context.

Long Vowels Matter

Always remember the 'ō' in 'gasshō'. Without it, the word sounds incomplete and might be harder for natives to understand immediately.

Mouths Meeting

Remember: 合 (Meeting) + 唱 (Mouths singing). A meeting of mouths is a choir!

Don't forget 'Suru'

To use it as a verb (to sing in a chorus), you must add 'suru'. '合唱します' is the polite form.

Listen for the Pause

The small 'tsu' (っ) in 'がっしょう' creates a rhythmic pause. Listen for it in songs or speech.

Kanji Strokes

The kanji '唱' has 11 strokes. Practice the right side carefully; it's two 'sun' kanji (昌) stacked vertically.

Join a Circle

Many Japanese universities have 'circles' (clubs). Looking for a '合唱サークル' is a great way to make friends.

NHK N-Con

Search for 'N-Con' (Nコン) on YouTube to see high-level Japanese school choral performances.

Related Words

Learn '指揮' (conducting) and '伴奏' (accompaniment) alongside '合唱' as they are almost always used together.

Insect Chorus

In summer and autumn, use the phrase '虫の合唱' to sound very poetic and native when talking about the weather.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine two 'mouths' (the 口 radicals in 唱) 'joining' (合) together to sing. It takes at least two to make a chorus!

Visual Association

A group of students in a V-formation, all with their mouths open in an 'O' shape, singing from a black folder.

Word Web

Music Choir Harmony School Competition Voice Practice Conductor

Challenge

Try to find a video of a Japanese school '合唱コンクール' on YouTube and identify the different parts (soprano, alto, etc.).

Word Origin

Composed of two Sino-Japanese (Kango) characters. '合' (meet/join) and '唱' (sing/chant). It entered the Japanese language as a technical term for Western-style choral music during the Meiji period.

Original meaning: Joining voices to sing or chant.

Sino-Japanese (Kango).

Cultural Context

None. It is a universally positive and inclusive term.

In the West, 'choir' is often associated with church, whereas in Japan, it is primarily associated with school and community competitions.

NHK National School Music Contest Beethoven's 9th Symphony (Daiku) The song 'Tabidachi no Hi ni'

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

School Festival

合唱コンクール
クラス合唱
パート練習
金賞

Concert Hall

合唱団
定期演奏会
ソプラノ
テノール

Nature

虫の合唱
セミの合唱
カエルの合唱
響く

Karaoke

大合唱
サビ
みんなで歌う
盛り上がる

Graduation

卒業合唱
旅立ちの日に
感動
涙

Conversation Starters

"学生時代、合唱コンクールに出たことがありますか？ (Did you ever participate in a choir competition in your student days?)"

"好きな合唱曲は何ですか？ (What is your favorite choral song?)"

"合唱と独唱、どちらが好きですか？ (Which do you prefer, choral singing or solo singing?)"

"合唱団に入ってみたいと思ったことはありますか？ (Have you ever thought about wanting to join a choir?)"

"第九の合唱を聴いたことがありますか？ (Have you ever heard the chorus of the Ninth Symphony?)"

Journal Prompts

今日の音楽の授業で合唱の練習をしました。どんな気持ちでしたか？ (I practiced choir in music class today. How did I feel?)

もし自分が合唱団の指揮者だったら、どんな曲を選びますか？ (If I were a choir conductor, what song would I choose?)

合唱の魅力について、自分の考えを書いてください。 (Write your thoughts on the appeal of choral singing.)

心に残っている合唱の思い出はありますか？ (Do you have any choral memories that stay in your heart?)

「和」の精神と合唱の関係についてどう思いますか？ (What do you think about the relationship between the spirit of 'Wa' and choral singing?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

While both mean 'chorus,' '合唱' (gasshō) is more formal and used for classical music or school choirs. 'コーラス' (kōrasu) is a loanword used for pop music backup or informal hobby groups.

Primarily yes, but it can be used metaphorically for a collection of sounds, like '虫の合唱' (chorus of insects) or '不満の合唱' (chorus of complaints).

You say '私は合唱部に入っています' (Watashi wa gasshō-bu ni haitte imasu).

The most common arrangement is '混声四部' (konsei yonbu - mixed four parts): Soprano (ソプラノ), Alto (アルト), Tenor (テノール), and Bass (バス).

It is valued for teaching cooperation and harmony (Wa). Almost every school has a choir competition as part of their culture festival.

No, that part is called 'サビ' (sabi). '合唱' refers to the group of singers or the act of singing together.

It means a 'grand chorus' or a 'large-scale sing-along.' It's often used when a whole audience joins in a song.

It is a geminate consonant. You hold the 's' sound for a split second longer, like the 's-s' in 'less salt'.

It is a choir competition. These are very prestigious and popular events for schools in Japan.

In a strict musical sense, yes. If it's just singing the same melody, '斉唱' (seishō) is the more accurate term.