Prelude

A Prelude is an introductory section of a musical composition, often serving to set the tone, mood, or themes for the piece that follows. It functions like a preface in a book, providing context without being a standalone piece. Preludes can vary widely in style and length, from brief improvisations to elaborate works, and are commonly used in genres like classical music and jazz to establish atmosphere or showcase a musician’s skill before the main performance begins.