The Chinook Database is a sample database designed for use with multiple database platforms, such as SQL Server, Oracle, MySQL, and others. It can be easily set up by running a single SQL script, making it a convenient alternative to the popular Northwind database. Chinook is widely used in demos and testing environments, particularly for Object-Relational Mapping (ORM) tools that target both single and multiple database servers.
Supported Database Servers
Chinook supports several database servers, including:
DB2
MySQL
Oracle
PostgreSQL
SQL Server
SQL Server Compact
SQLite
Download Instructions
You can download the SQL scripts for each supported database server from the latest release assets. The appropriate SQL script file(s) for your database vendor are provided, which can be executed using your preferred database management tool.
Data Model
The Chinook Database represents a digital media store, containing tables that include:
Artists
Albums
Media tracks
Invoices
Customers
Sample Data
The media data in Chinook is derived from a real iTunes Library, providing a realistic dataset for users. Additionally, users can generate their own SQL scripts using their personal iTunes Library by following specific instructions. Customer and employee details in the database were manually crafted with fictitious names, addresses (mappable via Google Maps), and well-structured contact information such as phone numbers, faxes, and emails. Sales data is auto-generated and spans a four-year period, using random values.
Why is it Called Chinook?
The Chinook Database's name is a nod to its predecessor, the Northwind database. Chinooks are warm, dry winds found in the interior regions of North America, particularly over southern Alberta in Canada, where the Canadian Prairies meet mountain ranges. This natural phenomenon inspired the choice of name, reflecting the idea that Chinook serves as a refreshing alternative to the Northwind database.