Definitions for: Oratorio


[n] a musical composition for voices and orchestra based on a religious text



Webster (1913) Definition: Or`a*to"ri*o, n. [It., fr. L. oratorius belonging to
praying. See Orator, and cf. Oratory.]
1. (Mus.) A more or less dramatic text or poem, founded on
some Scripture nerrative, or great divine event,
elaborately set to music, in recitative, arias, grand
choruses, etc., to be sung with an orchestral
accompaniment, but without action, scenery, or costume,
although the oratorio grew out of the Mysteries and the
Miracle and Passion plays, which were acted.

Note: There are instances of secular and mythological
subjects treated in the form of the oratorios, and
called oratorios by their composers; as Haydn's
``Seasons,'' Handel's ``Semele,'' etc.

2. Performance or rendering of such a composition.

Synonyms: cantata

See Also: classical music, serious music

Try our:
Scrabble Word Finder

Scrabble Cheat

Words With Friends Cheat

Hanging With Friends Cheat

Scramble With Friends Cheat

Ruzzle Cheat



Related Resources:
d letter animals
animals begin with j