Prelude and Fugue

A Prelude is an opening piece of music that sets the mood or theme, often improvisatory or free in structure. A Fugue is a more intricate composition built around a main melodic idea called the subject, which is introduced and then developed through interweaving voices or lines that answer and imitate each other systematically. In essence, a Prelude serves as an introduction, while a Fugue is a complex interplay of melodies based on a central theme, showcasing craftsmanship and intellectual depth within classical music. Together, they exemplify contrasting approaches—free expression and structured complexity.