Prelude

['preljuːd] or ['prɛljud]

Definition

(noun.) music that precedes a fugue or introduces an act in an opera.

(verb.) play as a prelude.

(verb.) serve as a prelude or opening to.

Inputed by Kirsten--From WordNet

Definition

(v. t.) An introductory performance, preceding and preparing for the principal matter; a preliminary part, movement, strain, etc.; especially (Mus.), a strain introducing the theme or chief subject; a movement introductory to a fugue, yet independent; -- with recent composers often synonymous with overture.

(v. i.) To play an introduction or prelude; to give a prefatory performance; to serve as prelude.

(v. t.) To introduce with a previous performance; to play or perform a prelude to; as, to prelude a concert with a lively air.

(v. t.) To serve as prelude to; to precede as introductory.

Checked by Charlie

Synonyms and Synonymous

n. Introduction (to a piece of music), preliminary, preface, preamble, proem, PROLOGUE, exordium.

Checked by Charlie

Synonyms and Antonyms

SYN:Introduction, preparation, preface, proem, {[preli*ion]?}, overture,[SeePREFACE]

ANT:Sequel, conclusion

Edited by Georgina

Definition

n. the introductory movement of a musical work: a prefatory piece to an oratorio &c.: an organ voluntary before a church service: a preface: a forerunner.—v.t. Prelude′ to play before: to preface as an introduction.—v.i. to perform a prelude: to serve as a prelude.—adjs. Prelū′dial and Prelū′dious (rare); Prelū′sive of the nature of a prelude: introductory.—advs. Prelū′sively; Prelū′sorily.—adj. Prelū′sory introductory.

Inputed by Antonia