Orchestration
/ˌɔːr.kɪˈstreɪ.ʃən/noun
The arrangement of a musical composition for performance by an orchestra.
Did you know?The Greek orchestra was originally the circular performance area where the chorus danced and sang, making modern orchestration linguistically descended from ritual theater movement.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
orkhēstra
“The circular space in a theater where the chorus danced and performed”
Ancient Greek
Greek
orkheisthai
“To dance”
17th Century
Italian
orchestra
“The performers or instrumental group positioned in the theater space”
18th Century
French
orchestration
“The arrangement or scoring of music for orchestral instruments”
19th Century
English
orchestration
“The composition or arrangement of music for an orchestra”
Modern English
English
orchestration
“The arranging of musical parts for orchestral performance, also used figuratively for the coordinated organization of events”
Explore more surprising origins