cantiamo

Cantiamo is the first-person plural present indicative form of the Italian verb cantare, meaning to sing. It translates to “we sing” and is also commonly used as an exhortative expression equivalent to “let us sing,” especially in musical or group contexts such as choirs, classrooms, or song lyrics.

Etymology and grammar: Cantiamo derives from cantare with the -iamo ending used for the noi form. It is a regular form of -are verbs, whose other present-tense forms are canto, canti, canta, cantiamo, cantate, cantano. The pronunciation is typically [kanˈtjaːmo].

Usage and context: In everyday Italian, cantiamo denotes that a group is performing or that singing is taking place. In practice, it frequently appears in music education, rehearsals, and performances as a call to collective singing. In lyrics, cantiamo often functions as a rallying line encouraging participation, unity, or communal feeling. Phrases like cantiamo insieme (let’s sing together) are common and widely understood across Italian-speaking contexts.

Cultural notes: Cantiamo is embedded in Italian musical culture as a natural way to refer to group singing, whether in formal choral settings, informal gatherings, or educational activities. Because it expresses collective action, the form frequently appears in song lyrics, slogans, and pedagogical material to foster participation and communal sound.

See also: cantare; present indicative conjugations of regular -are verbs; Italian phrases related to group singing and choral practice.