Cantata - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A cantata is a musical composition for voices and instruments, typically in several movements, often based on a religious or secular text. It is shorter than an oratorio.
Definition:
A musical composition for voices and instruments, typically with solos, chorus, and orchestral accompaniment.
Synonyms:
oratorio, choral work, vocal composition
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
silence, speech
Common Collocations:
Baroque cantata, sacred cantata, perform a cantata
Derivatives:
cantatas, cantatist
Usage Tips:
Use "cantata" to describe a formal vocal piece often performed in religious or concert settings.
Common Phrases:
Christmas cantata, Bach cantata, choral cantata
Etymology:
From Italian "cantata," meaning "sung," derived from Latin "cantare," to sing.
Examples:
- 1. The choir performed a beautiful cantata last Sunday.
- 2. Bach composed many sacred cantatas for church services.
- 3. She sang a solo in the school's spring cantata.
- 4. The orchestra rehearsed the Baroque cantata for hours.