Chorale is defined as...

• A. Congregational hymn of the German Lutheran church, noticeable pauses at ends of phrases
• B. A secular orchestral overture
• C. An instrumental solo piece
• D. A short aria melody

Answer: (A)

Chorale refers to a congregational hymn used in the German Lutheran church. It’s built for the congregation to sing together, with a simple, memorable tune often set in four-part harmony by composers for worship. A key feature is the clear cadence at the ends of phrases, which gives those noticeable pauses that help people follow and join in the singing. This makes the chorale fundamentally about communal, liturgical singing, unlike secular instrumental overtures, solo instrumental pieces, or arias.