Melodies ranged from folk songs, humorous dit-ties, and drinking songs, to popular choruses from operas and operettas. A few choirs with trained singers performed original works from the classical repertoire, such as choruses by Brahms or Mendelssohn.
Songs were mostly arrangements from Europe. Later, original (German) American compositions became popular, such as those by Hugo Kaun, whose Abendfeier in Venedig (Evening in Venice) for eight voices and orchestra was performed at the 1891 Sängerfest in his adopted hometown of Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
The repertoire at a Sängerfest varied greatly, depending on the participating choirs. In the mid-19th century, most songs were in German, extolling nature and beautiful landscapes (mostly in Europe), love and longing, Heimat and Vaterland, ideals of freedom and unity, and pride in the German language and traditions. By the 20th century, English-language songs had become popular, and the Star-Spangled Banner opened every main concert.
Orchestras accompanied the choirs and played their own pieces, often overtures from well-known operas. Soloists rounded out the program.