Chorus or Choir
 

Hello,
We are choosing an official English name for our local boy's chorus group (consisting of 40-50 schoolboys). Our problem is, which is better between “Setou Boys Chorus” or “Setou Boys Choir.”

I understand that either name is OK. It is a proper name, after all. I think they usually refer any forms of children’s chorus as choir in the UK. On the other hand, choir (especially boy choir) sounds like more or less church-related and European in the US.

Since we are a city chorus group, I prefer “Boys Chorus” to avoid any misunderstanding. But that’s just my thought as a non-English speaker. Could you tell me your idea?

Re: Chorus or Choir
 

I'd choose "choir" - but then I'm British. "Chorus" for me is the refrain of a song - a few lines that occur again and again throughout the song (like We all live in a yellow submarine etc) or, if referring to a group of singers it's those in a performance of an opera who back up the soloists, or in a primarily musical piece where they back up the orchestra. In any case, to me it suggests a secondary role.

On the other hand, where the focus is on the group itself, I'd expect "choir" - which doesn't for me necessarily have religious connotations, but makes the group sound more important. But as you say - that could be because I'm British. Both terms are certainly usable. Choose the one you like best.

Re: Chorus or Choir
 

By chance came across another possible term today - "chorale". I rather like that one.