What is the musical term for a composition typically featuring a solo instrument accompanied by an orchestra?

• A. Symphony
• B. Sonata
• C. Concerto
• D. Opera

Answer: (C)

A concerto is a piece designed to showcase a solo instrument against the full orchestra. The structure typically highlights the soloist with dramatic contrasts between the virtuosic passages and the orchestral backdrop, often featuring a cadenza where the soloist shines. This focus on a single instrument interacting with the orchestra distinguishes a concerto from other forms: a symphony is an extended work for orchestra without a featured solo instrument, a sonata is usually written for a solo instrument (or a small ensemble) without the orchestral setting, and opera is a staged vocal drama supported by an orchestra. So the composition described—solo instrument with orchestra—is best called a concerto.