Oratorios are musical compositions that are typically religious in theme and are meant to be performed without staging. Alternative words for oratorios include cantatas, anthems, masses, hymns, chorales, and psalms. Each of these synonyms for oratorios denotes a specific type of religious musical composition that can be performed in either choral or solo settings. Cantatas are vocal pieces that are often set to music, while anthems are sacred choral pieces. Masses are liturgical compositions that are typically performed in Catholic settings, while hymns and psalms denote specific religious texts. Chorales are a type of simple religious song, often sung in four-part harmony.