What distinguishes an orchestral dance suite from other musical forms?

An orchestral dance suite is distinguished by its structure, particularly in the way it is organized into multiple movements. Each movement is typically a dance form that showcases varying rhythms and styles, which is a hallmark of the suite genre and contrasts with more narrative-based forms. The movements are often derived from different dance styles, combining them into a cohesive whole, which is why the selection featuring multiple movements is key in defining an orchestral dance suite.

In comparison to other musical forms, an orchestral dance suite does not necessarily have a narrative thread connecting its movements, nor is it typically divided into acts as a full-fledged opera or dramatic work would be. Additionally, while improvisation may occur in certain contexts, it is not a defining characteristic of the orchestral dance suite. Instead, the suite focuses on composed dance movements that are unified by their overall form and orchestration.