orchestra Definition
or·ches·tra (ôr′kis trə, ôr′kes′-)
noun
- in ancient Greek theaters, the semicircular space in front of the stage, used by the chorus
- in modern theaters, the space in front of and below the stage, where the musicians sit
- ☆
- the section of seats on the main floor of a theater, esp. the front section
- the main floor of a theater
- a usually large group of musicians playing together; often, specif., symphony orchestra
- the instruments of such a group
Etymology: L < Gr orchēstra < orcheisthai, to dance < IE base *ergh-, extension of base *er-, swift movement, a raising > Sans *ṛghāyati, (he) rages, Ger arg, bad
orchestra Synonyms
orchestra
n.
orchestra Usage Examples
Converse of subject
accompany: Congregational carols will again be accompanied by the orchestra.
Converse of object
- conduct: He also played in orchestras conducted by Sir Thomas Beecham.
- assemble: Adrian Boynton assembles the orchestra and directs it so successfully that everyone involved must share the sheer joy of doing something so well.
- found: Gidon Kremer and Kremerata Baltica join the Hazard Chase roster Internationally renowned violinist Gidon Kremer founded the chamber orchestra Kremerata Baltica in 1997.
Adjective modifier
- symphonic: More voices gives you the ability to layer instruments, add parts to your arrangement and approximate huge symphonic orchestras.
- amateur: The station will also dedicate an evening to performances by amateur orchestras.
- 15-piece: With a talented cast and 15-piece orchestra, take a trip back to the glamorous, hot, glitzy nights of Las Vegas.
- classical: The horns, indeed, operate much as they do in the classical orchestra: in a modest, supportive role.
- leading: He has also played tuba with many of the world's leading symphony orchestras.
- acclaimed: Founded in 1990, Southern Sinfonia is the highly acclaimed professional chamber orchestra of southern England.
Modifies a noun
- pit: There's a deep rumble from the orchestra pit, the curtain glides up, lights, action.
- conductor: An orchestra conductor, for instance, would not engage player without auditioning their instrument.
- elevator: A new orchestra elevator provides the Dome with greater flexibility than ever before.
- rehearsal: Losing my Friday night to an orchestra rehearsal didn't exactly get me off to the best start.
Noun used with modifier
- symphony: The West Midlands also has its own symphony orchestra, English Symphony Orchestra, based in Great Malvern.
- chamber: Some students have even formed their own chamber orchestras on NYO courses!
- gamelan: Students have the opportunity to participate in activities ranging from gamelan orchestra to fully staged opera.
- baroque: There will be a Baroque dance class, plus viols, recorder consorts, early brass and baroque orchestra.
- string: A short time later, Buddy recorded with a string orchestra, again at Norman Petty's suggestion.
- youth: I cannot imagine any youth orchestra in the world surpassing this.
Browse dictionary entries near orchestra
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