cantata Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a musical composition for voices and orchestra based on a religious text
    oratorio.

WordNet

Can*ta"ta noun
Etymology
It., fr. cantare to sing, fr. L. cantare intens of canere to sing.
Definitions
  1. (Mus.) A poem set to music; a musical composition comprising choruses, solos, interludes, etc., arranged in a somewhat dramatic manner; originally, a composition for a single noise, consisting of both recitative and melody.

Webster 1913