Question: What is the difference between opera and oratorio?
Answer: New Groves Dictionary of Music and Musicians defines oratorio as “an extended musical setting of a sacred text made up of dramatic, narrative and contemplative elements.” Unlike opera, oratorios are never staged.
Howard E. Smither: 'Oratorio', Grove Music Online ed. L. Macy (Accessed 30 July 2004), <http://www.grovemusic.com>
Opera FAQ Index
- What is opera?
- Where did opera originate?
- What was the first opera?
- What is a libretto?
- What is opera seria?
- What is opera buffa?
- What is the shortest opera?
- What is the longest opera?
- What is the most performed opera?
- What is the difference between opera and oratorio?
- Should I familiarize myself with the opera I'm about to see before I see it?
