Which is a common feature of choral music found in oratorios?

Choral music found in oratorios frequently features the use of polyphony, which is the simultaneous combination of several independent melodies. This characteristic is significant in oratorios, as they often showcase complex vocal harmonies that enhance the narrative and emotional depth of the musical work. Polyphony allows for multiple voices to express different texts or musical ideas at the same time, enriching the overall texture and providing a more engaging listening experience.

In oratorios, the choral sections serve to amplify the dramatic elements of the narrative, taking advantage of polyphonic techniques to create intricate and powerful musical passages. This contrasts with other forms of music, such as those that may primarily utilize homophony, where one main melody is supported by chordal accompaniment, which is less typical in oratorio settings.

The other options, while relevant to different contexts of music, do not align as closely with the traditional characteristics of choral music in oratorios. For instance, a small ensemble or a capella performances do not reflect the grand scale often associated with oratorios, and dance movements are generally more representative of operatic or orchestral works, not the primarily solemn and narrative nature of oratorios.