Pronunciation

/ˈɔːrkɪstrə/

Definitions

• Noun: A large group of musicians who play various instruments together, usually under the direction of a conductor. For example: “The philharmonic orchestra performed Beethoven’s 5th Symphony with great passion.”
• Noun (metaphorical): A well-coordinated group of people working together towards a common goal. For instance: “The team operated like a finely tuned orchestra.”

Noun Examples

• “The conductor raised his baton, and the orchestra began to play.”
• “The school orchestra rehearsed every day after classes to prepare for their upcoming concert.”

Phrases

• “Sit in the orchestra pit”: The area in a theatre where the orchestra plays during a performance, often below the stage level.
• “Lead the orchestra”: To guide, manage, or coordinate a group effectively, often metaphorically referring to any organization or project.

Synonyms

• Band
• Ensemble
• Symphonic ensemble
• Philharmonic
• Chamber orchestra
• String orchestra
• Concert orchestra

Related Terms & Phrases

• Symphony orchestra
• Pit orchestra
• Brass band
• Woodwind quintet
• Percussion section
• First violinist (concertmaster)
• Conductor (orchestra leader)