What is a 'cantata'?

A cantata is indeed defined as a vocal composition with instrumental support. It typically consists of several movements, combining both sung sections and instrumental interludes. Often associated with religious themes, cantatas were especially popular during the Baroque period, with composers like J.S. Bach contributing significantly to the genre. This vocal aspect emphasizes the importance of text and music working together to convey a narrative or emotional content, distinguishing cantatas from purely instrumental forms. The involvement of both voices and instruments highlights its character as a composition meant for performance, particularly in a choral setting.