Final answer:
A symphony is a musical composition for orchestra, a sonata is a composition featuring a solo instrument, a concerto highlights the interaction between a soloist and an orchestra, and an opera combines singing, acting, and music to tell a story.
Step-by-step explanation:
Symphony:
A symphony is a musical composition that is written for a full orchestra. It typically consists of several movements or sections, each with its own tempo, mood, and musical themes. Examples of famous symphonies include Beethoven's Symphony No. 5 and Mozart's Symphony No. 40.
Sonata:
A sonata is a musical composition that features a solo instrument, such as a piano or violin, accompanied by a second instrument or an orchestra. It usually has three or four movements and showcases the virtuosity and musicality of the soloist. Examples of famous sonatas include Beethoven's Piano Sonata No. 14 (also known as the Moonlight Sonata) and Mozart's Violin Sonata in G major.
Concerto:
A concerto is a musical composition that highlights the interaction between a solo instrument and an orchestra. It typically consists of three movements and allows the soloist to showcase their technical and expressive abilities. Examples of famous concertos include Tchaikovsky's Piano Concerto No. 1 and Vivaldi's The Four Seasons.
Opera:
Opera is a form of theatrical art that combines singing, acting, and music to tell a story. It usually features soloists, a chorus, and an orchestra. Operas are performed on a stage with costumes, sets, and props. Examples of famous operas include Mozart's The Marriage of Figaro, Puccini's La Bohème, and Verdi's La Traviata.