Chœur vs. chorale

In the context of French musical terms, 'chœur' and 'chorale' both refer to groups of singers performing together. While they are often used interchangeably outside of professional circles, they can imply different types of singing ensembles within more specialized contexts

Chœur

In a general sense, 'chœur' refers to a group of singers in an ensemble, particularly one associated with opera or classical music. It can also denote any part of a musical composition intended for such a group.
Le chœur entonna un hymne émouvant pendant la cérémonie.
(The choir sang a moving hymn during the ceremony.)
Dans cette opéra, le chœur des villageois joue un rôle clé dans le deuxième acte.
(In this opera, the villagers' chorus plays a key role in the second act.)
Elle a rejoint le chœur de l'église pour performer chaque dimanche.
(She joined the church choir to perform every Sunday.)

Chorale

'Chorale' often specifically refers to a non-professional singing group that performs arranged pieces, typically representing religious organizations or community groups. It may also suggest a less formal ensemble than a 'chœur'.
La chorale locale répète des chants de Noël pour le concert de décembre.
(The local choir rehearses Christmas carols for the December concert.)
Il dirige une chorale d'amateurs composée de seniors de la communauté.
(He leads an amateur choir made up of seniors from the community.)
Les membres de la chorale se rencontrent tous les mercredis pour pratiquer.
(Choir members meet every Wednesday to practice.)

Summary

Overall, while 'chœur' and 'chorale' can be used synonymously in everyday French to mean 'choir', there is a nuance when it comes to formal musical settings or specificity of the group's nature. A 'chœur' typically implies a more classical or professional context, while 'chorale' tends to represent community-based or non-professional singing ensembles. However, both words celebrate the art of collective vocal performance regardless of their particular settings.