Chant (song)

A chant is a repetitive and often rhythmic vocal utterance, typically involving the reiteration of a word, phrase, or melodic formula. Chants can be used for a variety of purposes, including religious practice, spiritual invocation, magical spells, team building, expressing solidarity, or simply for entertainment. They are often characterized by their simplicity, memorability, and ability to induce a trance-like state in both performers and listeners.

Chants can be found across diverse cultures and historical periods. In religious contexts, chants are often used to praise deities, tell stories, or create a sacred atmosphere. Gregorian chants, used in the Roman Catholic Church, are a prime example. In secular settings, chants can be used to build morale in sports teams, express political protest, or provide a rhythmic accompaniment to physical activities.

The vocal delivery of a chant can vary significantly. Some chants are sung in unison, while others involve call-and-response patterns. The melody may be simple and repetitive, or more complex and ornamented. The tempo can also vary, from slow and meditative to fast and energetic. The overall effect of a chant is often to create a sense of unity, focus, and shared experience among participants.

Chanting, as an action, also refers to the act of producing a chant. This includes the vocalization, rhythmic emphasis, and emotional intention behind the performance.