something that serves as a preceding event or introduces what follows
Training is a necessary preliminary to employment. Drinks were the overture to dinner.
source: WordNet 3.0
music that precedes a fugue or introduces an act in an opera
source: WordNet 3.0
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.
source: Webster 1913
verb
serve as a prelude or opening to
source: WordNet 3.0
play as a prelude
source: WordNet 3.0
To play an introduction or prelude; to give a prefatory performance; to serve as prelude.
source: Webster 1913
To introduce with a previous performance; to play or perform a prelude to; as, to prelude a concert with a lively air.
