The oratorio and cantata of the eighteenth century were both linked, unlike opera, to religious themes. ... Oratorio is not staged and is not used as part of worship. A significant feature is the use of the chorus as narrator. The cantata addresses a religious topic, but it is not narrative.

What is a major difference between cantata and oratorio?

Oratorios are usually more dramatic. Think of them as operas with no sceneries and costumes. 3. Cantatas were usually performed in religious settings (such as part of a service or special church events), compared to Oratorios were performed in concert setting.

How does opera differ from oratorio quizlet?

Oratorio and opera are both large scale musical forms. Oratorio requires no staging, while opera does have staging. Oratorio is sacred, but opera is secular. Both types of music have arios, recitatives, choruses, and a orchestra.