A Christmas Oratorio is a musical composition composed for performance during the Christmas season. Synonyms for Christmas Oratorio include Cantata, Hymn, Carol, Chorale, and Anthem. A Cantata is a composition for voices and instruments, similar to an opera but without staging or costumes. A Hymn is a religious song sung by a congregation or choir, often with a simple melody and words of praise. A Carol is a traditional Christmas song, often with verses that tell the story of Christ's birth. A Chorale is a hymn sung in unison by a choir or congregation, while an Anthem is a musical setting of a religious text for church use.