What characterizes an orchestral dance suite?

An orchestral dance suite is characterized as an instrumental collection of stylized dance movements, which is precisely what the correct answer conveys. These suites typically consist of multiple movements, each representing a different dance style, such as a minuet, bourrée, or gavotte. The movements are often arranged in a way that showcases various rhythms, tempos, and styles, allowing composers to display their creativity and musicianship.

The emphasis on instrumental performance distinguishes a dance suite from other forms of music that include vocals or are structured as single movements. This collection format allows for an engaging experience, illustrating the cultural significance and artistic interpretation of dance during the time the suite was composed. This characteristic makes it a popular format among composers of the Baroque and Classical periods, as they often sought to evoke the spirit of dance in their orchestral works.