chamber orchestra

American  

noun

1. a small orchestra, commonly of about 25 players.

---

chamber orchestra British  

noun

1. a small orchestra consisting of about 25 players, used for the authentic performance of baroque and early classical music as well as modern music written specifically for a small orchestra

---

Etymology

Origin of chamber orchestra

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

Along with his Long Beach Opera gig, Rountree is founder and music director of Wild Up, the avant-garde chamber orchestra of virtuoso musicians, all of whom happen to be progressive composers as well.

From Los Angeles Times

In the course of his restless, mutable career, Gordon, 72, has written all kinds of music, from classical pieces for solo piano or chamber orchestra to dance scores and experimental operas.

From New York Times

But technology has evolved, and a new recording on Cedille, “Acoustic Microtonal,” illustrates to astonishing effect what this music might sound like if it were played by a chamber orchestra.

From New York Times

The music for “Only Murders” is equally refined, written for a chamber orchestra, and Khosla has added a new melody for French horn that is tied to Streep’s character.

From Los Angeles Times

Saturday night Anthony Parnther conducted a stirring concert of a student chamber orchestra at the Music Academy of the West.

From Los Angeles Times