part-song

A choir sings a part-song in a concert hall.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A vocal composition for multiple voices: A "part-song" is a piece of music written for several voices (typically three or more), where each voice sings a distinct melodic line. Unlike a madrigal, it is often homophonic (with chords) and may have a secular or light character. It is a type of unaccompanied choral work.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The choir performed a beautiful part-song by the composer Elgar. (A vocal composition for multiple voices.)
  • She enjoys singing part-songs with her friends in the local choral society. (Songs arranged for several vocal parts.)

Advanced Usage

• "to sing in parts": to perform a piece where each voice has its own independent line.

  • The group learned to sing in parts, creating a rich harmony in the part-song. (They sang different melodic lines simultaneously.)

• "part-song repertoire": the collection of works in this genre.

  • The library has a wide part-song repertoire from the Romantic period. (A selection of vocal pieces for multiple voices.)

Variants and Related Words

• Part-singing (n): the act of singing in multiple vocal parts.

  • Part-singing requires good ear training and coordination. (Singing with separate melodic lines.)

• Part-writing (n): the composition of music for multiple voices, especially in harmony.

  • The composer's part-writing in this part-song is intricate. (The arrangement of vocal lines.)

Synonyms

• Choral piece: a composition for a choir.
• Vocal arrangement: a piece adapted for multiple voices.
• Madrigal: a specific historical type of part-song, often polyphonic and secular (though madrigals are more contrapuntal).

Related Idioms

• "to be in good part": to be in a well-sung or harmonious state (rare, but related to the idea of parts).
  • The performance was in good part, with each voice blending perfectly. (The singing was well-executed and balanced.)

Note on Distinction

• A "part-song" is distinct from a "chorale" (a hymn-like piece) or an "anthem" (a choral work for religious use). It is typically light, secular, and designed for amateur or small groups.