verb / noun HSK 5
zòu
to play music together · ensemble performance · instrumental ensemble

Meaning

合奏 refers to multiple musicians playing instruments together in coordination, as opposed to solo performance. The word combines 合 (together) and 奏 (to play music), literally meaning 'combined playing.' It emphasizes the collaborative nature of musical performance and is commonly used in contexts involving orchestras, chamber music, or any group instrumental arrangement.

Usage

合奏 is primarily used in formal or artistic contexts when discussing musical performances. It typically refers to instrumental music rather than vocal performances (which would use 合唱). Native speakers use it when describing rehearsals, concerts, or the act of musicians coordinating their playing. It's common in music education and performance settings.

Examples

  1. 01
    我们正在排练下周的合奏曲目。
    Wǒmen zhèngzài páiliàn xià zhōu de zòu qǔmù.
    We are rehearsing next week's ensemble pieces.
  2. 02
    这首钢琴和小提琴合奏非常动听。
    Zhè shǒu gāngqín xiǎotíqín zòu fēicháng dòngtīng.
    This piano and violin ensemble is very beautiful.

Characters

Measure words

  • 一次合奏
  • chǎng一场合奏音乐会

Common collocations

  • 乐器合奏
    yuè zòu
    instrumental ensemble
  • 合奏
    zòu
    ensemble piece
  • 管弦乐合奏
    guǎn xián yuè zòu
    orchestral ensemble

Antonyms

Origin

The character 奏 originally depicted hands presenting something to a superior, later specialized to mean musical performance. Combined with 合 (together), the term naturally evolved to describe coordinated musical performance.

Related