der  Kinderchor

B1

Estimated CEFR level.

/ˈkɪndɐˌkɔʁ/

🎶 What exactly is a Kinderchor?

A Kinderchor (masculine, article: der) is a group of children who sing together. It's a Chor (choir) specifically designed for young singers of children's age (typically up to about 14 years old).

The focus is often on child-appropriate literature, vocal training, and the joy of making music together. Kinderchöre (children's choirs, plural) are often found in Schulen (schools), Musikschulen (music schools), church communities, or as independent associations.

Article rules for der, die, and das

🧐 Grammar: Declining 'der Kinderchor'

The word "Kinderchor" is a masculine noun. Here are the declension tables:

📝 Example Sentences

1. Der Kinderchor probt jeden Mittwochnachmittag.
   (The children's choir rehearses every Wednesday afternoon.)
2. Die Leiterin des Kinderchors ist sehr engagiert.
   (The leader of the children's choir is very dedicated.)
3. Wir lauschten dem Kinderchor bei seinem Auftritt.
   (We listened to the children's choir during their performance.)
4. Sie gründete einen neuen Kinderchor an der Grundschule.
   (She founded a new children's choir at the elementary school.)
5. Die Kinderchöre aus verschiedenen Städten trafen sich zum Wettbewerb.
   (The children's choirs from different cities met for the competition.)

🎤 How and when to use 'Kinderchor'?

The term "Kinderchor" is used specifically to denote a singing group of children. It distinguishes itself from other types of choirs.

• Context: Typically used in relation to music, education, church activities, or cultural events.
• Differentiation: Unlike a Jugendchor (youth choir, for older teenagers), Männerchor (men's choir), Frauenchor (women's choir), or gemischter Chor (mixed choir, adults).
• Application: One speaks of the performance des Kinderchors (of the children's choir), the rehearsal des Kinderchors, membership im Kinderchor (in the children's choir), etc.

The term is unambiguous and understood throughout the German-speaking world.

🧠 Mnemonics and Memory Aids

Article Mnemonic: Think of "der Chor" (the choir). Even though Kinder (children; neuter: das Kind, plural: die Kinder) are involved, the base word "Chor" determines the gender. Der Chor remains masculine, even when children sing.

Meaning Mnemonic: It's simple! They are Kinder (children) singing in a Chor (choir). The word is a direct combination.

🔄 Similar and Opposite Terms

😄 A Little Joke

Warum singt der Kinderchor im Garten?

(Why does the children's choir sing in the garden?)

Damit sie die hohen Töne besser treffen können – bei den Baumspitzen!

(So they can hit the high notes better – near the treetops!)

🎼 A Poem about the Kinderchor

Kleine Stimmen, hell und klar,
singt die fröhliche Kinderschar.
Im Kinderchor, Hand in Hand,
klingt Musik durchs ganze Land.
Mal laut, mal leis', mit reinem Ton,
verdienen sie Applaus als Lohn.

(Little voices, bright and clear,
sings the cheerful group of children dear.
In the children's choir, hand in hand,
music sounds throughout the land.
Sometimes loud, sometimes low, with pure tone,
they earn applause as their reward shown.)

❓ Riddle Time

Ich habe viele junge Stimmen,
die zusammen Lieder summen.
Wir proben oft für den Applaus,
in Kirche, Schule oder Haus.
Wer bin ich, sag es schnell und froh?

(I have many young voices,
that hum songs together.
We often rehearse for the applause,
in church, school, or house.
Who am I, tell me quick and happy?)

Solution: Der Kinderchor (The children's choir)

🧩 Other Interesting Details about der Kinderchor

Word Composition

The word "Kinderchor" is a compound noun, composed of:

• Kinder: Plural of "Kind" (child)
• Chor: Choir (group of singers)

Cultural Significance

Kinderchöre (children's choirs) play an important role in early musical education and the cultural life of many communities in German-speaking countries. They foster social skills, musical understanding, and provide children with a platform for shared experiences and public performances.