symphony orchestra

noun

1. a large orchestra composed of wind, string, and percussion instruments and organized to perform symphonic compositions.

symphony orchestra

noun

1. music an orchestra capable of performing symphonies, esp the large orchestra comprising strings, brass, woodwind, harp, and percussion

Word History and Origins

Origin of symphony orchestra¹

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

Every Good Boy Deserves Favour put a symphony orchestra on stage alongside the actors in a savage satire which dramatised the plight of Soviet dissidents locked away in mental hospitals.

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It’s a grand work operating on the largest scale, with a symphony orchestra, choirs and odes to saints rendered in many languages.

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It supports nine full-time professional symphony orchestras and nearly as many concert halls.

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In symphony orchestras, the lone tuba is relegated to the back row, and the player’s face is sometimes obscured by the bell.

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To that end, Sinatra became the first major singer to regularly perform popular music in formal concert settings backed by a full symphony orchestra.

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Related Words

• chamber orchestra