What was NOT characteristic of the orchestral song (or orchestral Lied)?

The characteristic that did not apply to the orchestral song, or orchestral Lied, is the idea that brass instruments were excluded to maintain intimacy. In fact, while orchestral songs often emphasized the relationship and balance between voice and orchestra, the use of brass instruments was not inherently avoided. Orchestral Lieder could incorporate a variety of instrumental colors, including brass, to enhance the expressiveness and overall texture of the music.

In contrast, the emphasis on collaboration between voice and orchestra conveys the important interplay that gives these works their richness and depth. The inclusion of simple melodies and harmonies allowed for a focus on lyrical expression, and the typical format of featuring a solo vocalist with accompaniment is a defining trait that further aligns with traditional practices of the genre. These elements collectively showcase the unique blend of poetic and musical artistry found in orchestral Lieder, while the exclusion of brass instruments is an inaccurate representation of the form.