oratorium

[aw-ruh-tawr-ee-uhm, -tohr-]

oratorium Definition

a musical composition for voices and orchestra, telling a usually sacred story without costumes, scenery, or dramatic action.

Using oratorium: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "oratorium" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  Bach's 'St. Matthew Passion' is an oratorio.

• Example

  Handel's 'Messiah' is one of the most famous oratorios in the world.

• Example

  The choir performed an oratorio at the church last Sunday.

oratorium Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for oratorium

• composition
• cantata
• choral work
• musical work

Phrases with oratorium

• Christmas oratorio

  an oratorio with a Christmas theme

  Example

  Bach's 'Christmas Oratorio' is a popular piece during the holiday season.

• Easter oratorio

  an oratorio with an Easter theme

  Example

  Bach's 'Easter Oratorio' is often performed during Holy Week.

• Passion oratorio

  an oratorio that tells the story of Christ's Passion

  Example

  Bach's 'St. John Passion' is a well-known Passion oratorio.

Origins of oratorium

from Latin 'oratorium', meaning 'place of prayer'

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Summary: oratorium in Brief

'Oratorium' [aw-ruh-tawr-ee-uhm, -tohr-] is a musical composition for voices and orchestra that tells a sacred story without costumes, scenery, or dramatic action. Examples of oratorios include Bach's 'St. Matthew Passion' and Handel's 'Messiah.' The term extends to phrases like 'Christmas oratorio,' 'Easter oratorio,' and 'Passion oratorio,' which denote specific themes.