prelude PREL-yood noun WS #32

an action or event serving as an introduction to something more important; a short piece of music of a preliminary or introductory character; something that precedes and introduces a main event

1. The diplomatic talks were merely a prelude to the formal peace negotiations that would follow.
2. The economic downturn was a prelude to the Great Depression that devastated the country.
3. The thunderclouds gathering on the horizon were a prelude to the violent storm that struck later.
4. The small protests were a prelude to the massive demonstration that would occur the following week.
5. The pianist performed a beautiful prelude before launching into the main concerto movement.