khorale

Khorale is a term that can refer to several things, most notably a type of musical composition and a term within certain African cultural contexts.

In music, a khorale, often spelled chorale, is a hymn or psalm sung by a choir or congregation. Historically, the term is most strongly associated with the Lutheran tradition, where chorales were a central part of worship. Johann Sebastian Bach famously composed numerous organ preludes and fugues based on existing chorale melodies, as well as writing his own chorale harmonizations. These musical pieces are characterized by their often simple, devotional melodies and straightforward harmonic progressions, designed to be accessible and easily sung by the congregation.

In some African cultures, particularly in parts of West Africa, the term "khorale" can denote a specific social role or a type of traditional performance. This usage is distinct from the musical definition and often relates to storytelling, ceremonial music, or community gatherings. The exact meaning and context can vary significantly between different ethnic groups and regions. Without further specification, it is difficult to provide a definitive explanation for this usage.