In Baroque music, what is the term for a large-scale work that typically includes soloists, chorus, and orchestra, often based on biblical texts?

The term for a large-scale work in Baroque music that typically includes soloists, a chorus, and an orchestra, often based on biblical texts, is the oratorio. Oratorios are significant for their dramatic narratives conveyed through music and are similar to operas but are primarily intended for concert performance, lacking the theatrical staging of an opera.

They often encompass various movements, including arias, recitatives, and choral sections, allowing for expressive and elaborate musical forms. Prominent composers of the period, such as Handel, produced renowned oratorios like "Messiah," showcasing the genre's connection to spiritual themes and its use of text derived from scripture.

In contrast, an opera is a theatrical work that incorporates music, singing, and drama, while a concerto grosso involves a group of solo instruments accompanied by an orchestra. A cantata, although it can feature similar elements to an oratorio, is generally shorter and may not always center on religious subjects. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the unique characteristics of the oratorio within the broader context of Baroque music.