a preliminary to an action, event, condition, or work of broader scope and higher importance.

any action, event, comment, etc. that precedes something else.

Music .

a relatively short, independent instrumental composition, free in form and resembling an improvisation.

a piece that precedes a more important movement.

the overture to an opera.

an independent piece, of moderate length, sometimes used as an introduction to a fugue.

music opening a church service; an introductory voluntary.

to serve as a prelude or introduction to.

to introduce by a prelude.

to play as a prelude.

to serve as a prelude.

to give a prelude.

to play a prelude.

noun

ending , epilogue , postlude

noun

commencement , curtain-raiser , exordium , foreword , intro , introduction , overture , preamble , preface , preliminary , prelusion , preparation , proem , prolegomenon , prologue , start , induction , lead-in , beginning , fugue , opening