1. (n.) A composition for voices and orchestra, usually founded on Scripture or great divine event, elaborately set to music\, in recitative, arias, grand choruses, etc., to be sung with an orchestral accompaniment, but without action, scenery, or costume, although the oratorio grew out of the Mysteries and the Miracle and Passion plays, which were acted.

2. (n.) Performance or rendering of such a composition.

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