Define a "motif" in choral music.

A "motif" in choral music is defined as a short, recurring musical idea that can be developed and varied. This concept is fundamental in music composition, as motifs serve as building blocks for larger musical structures, allowing composers to create musical cohesion and identity throughout a piece. By introducing a motif, composers can emphasize particular themes or emotions, and their subsequent variations can add depth and complexity to the composition.

In choral settings, motifs can be used to unify a performance by giving different sections or voices a common thread to follow, making the overall arrangement more cohesive. The ability to develop and vary motifs also allows for creative expression, as composers and arrangers can manipulate these ideas through changes in harmony, rhythm, and instrumentation, providing a dynamic listening experience.

In contrast to the other options, a long thematic development pertains to larger sections of music rather than the succinct and impactful nature of a motif. A style of singing or vocal technique does not capture the structural aspect of a motif, and a type of musical notation is not relevant in defining a motif's musical significance or role within a composition.