The characteristic features of a cantata are:
* It is a vocal work, with soloists and chorus.
* It is accompanied by instruments, typically an orchestra.
* It is divided into several movements, which may be contrasting in mood and tempo.
* It often has a religious or spiritual theme, but can also be secular.
* It is typically performed in a church or concert hall.
Cantatas were first composed in the 17th century, and have been a popular form of musical composition ever since. Some of the most famous cantatas include Bach's "Coffee Cantata" and "Wedding Cantata," Handel's "Messiah," and Beethoven's "Ninth Symphony."