The spelling of "chase chorus" follows the IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) phonetic transcription. "Chase" is spelled /tʃeɪs/ with the "ch" sound being /tʃ/ as in "church" and the "a" sound being /eɪ/ as in "say". "Chorus" is spelled /kɔːrəs/ with the "ch" sound being /k/ as in "kite" and the "o" sound being /ɔː/ as in "thought", and the "u" sound being /ə/ as in "sofa". The word "chase chorus" refers to a repeated musical phrase played by different instruments in succession.
Chase chorus refers to a particular type of musical section or movement that involves a series of voices or instruments playing rapid, synchronized, and overlapping patterns in a lively and energetic manner. The term "chase" in this context signifies a musical chase or pursuit, where different melodic lines or rhythmic motifs are closely intertwined and constantly moving, as if one voice or instrument is chasing the other.
Also known as "fugato" or "pursuit chorus," a chase chorus often features fast-paced and intricate musical passages, where individual voices or instrumental parts echo or imitate each other in a closely knit manner. This technique creates a sense of excitement, tension, and urgency, giving the music a dynamic and thrilling character.
Chase choruses are commonly found in various forms of music, such as classical compositions, jazz ensembles, and musical theater. They can serve as a climactic moment in a larger piece of music, adding dramatic flair and engaging the audience. Often used to showcase the technical virtuosity of performers, chase choruses require precise coordination and synchronization among the participating voices or instruments.
Overall, a chase chorus is characterized by its quick tempo, intricate patterns, and the interplay between different voices or instrumental sections. It adds liveliness, excitement, and intensity to the music, making it a captivating and thrilling experience for the listeners.
The term "chase chorus" comes from the world of music and specifically refers to a style of chorus used in musical theater or operetta where a group of performers appear to be chasing one another across the stage while singing in harmony.
The etymology of the word "chase" in this context can be traced back to its Old French origin "chacier" which means "to hunt". It further derives from the Late Latin word "captiare" meaning "to capture" or "pursue". The concept of chasing or pursuing is also reflected in its Middle English usage "chacen".
In the world of music, the term "chorus" refers to a group of singers who perform together, often providing harmonious backup to a lead singer or singing in unison.