Oratorio

An oratorio is a large scale work without acting or stage design.  It is usually based on a story from the Bible set to music for solo singers, chorus and orchestra.  Oratorios often include recitatives, arias and choruses.  

This is an example of a recitative from ‘The Messiah’ by Handel.

 

This is an example of an aria from ‘The Messiah’ by Handel.

 

This is an example of a chorus from ‘The Messiah’ by Handel.

 

Related Concept

Da capo aria

 

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