prelude etymology

Etymology

The word "prelude" comes from the Latin word "praeludere," which means "to play before." It is derived from the prefix "prae-," meaning "before," and the verb "ludere," meaning "to play."

Meaning

A prelude is:

• An introductory piece of music that precedes a larger musical work.
• An introductory or preliminary stage or event that precedes something more important.

Origin

In music, the term "prelude" was first used in the late 15th century to refer to short, improvised pieces that were played before a larger composition. These pieces were often used to warm up the performers and prepare them for the main work.

Over time, preludes became more formalized and were often composed as independent works. They were often used as opening pieces in concerts or recitals, or as a way to introduce a vocalist or soloist.

By the 18th century, preludes had become a staple of the Baroque musical repertoire. Composers such as Bach and Handel wrote numerous preludes, often as part of larger suites or collections.

In literature and drama, the term "prelude" is used to describe an introductory section that provides background information or sets the scene for the rest of the work. This usage of the term dates back to the 16th century.

prelude relate terms

• ludicrous

  Etymology The word ludicrous is derived from the Latin word ludicrus which means p

• postlude

  Etymology The word postlude is derived from two Latin words post meaning after

• prelude

  Etymology The word prelude comes from the Latin word praeludere which means to play

• prae

  Etymology Prae is a Latin preposition meaning before or in front of It is derived

• preliminary

  Etymology preliminary adjective from Latin prae before liminaris threshold M

• overture

  Etymology From Middle French ouverture from Old French overture from Late Latin obert

• introit

  Etymology The word introit is derived from the Latin word introitus which means ent

• extravagant

  Etymology The word extravagant comes from the Late Latin word extravagans which mea

• symphony

  Etymology The word symphony is derived from the Ancient Greek word συμφωνία

• origin

  Etymology Latin origo beginning source Meaning The place of origin birth m

• inception

  Etymology Inception is derived from the Latin word incipio which means to begin o

• verse

  Etymology The word verse comes from the Old French word vers which is derived from t

• serve

  Etymology From Middle English serven from Old French servir from Latin servīre to

• sever

  Etymology The word sever comes from the Latin word separare which means to separat