The Prelude

The word prelude derives from the Latin praelludium and means "to play beforehand." It is a key musical piece in the Entrance.

In Protestant worship the prelude refers to the music played before the formal worship begins. This music is often a classical piece or an arrangement of a hymn, anthem, chorale, or other church music, usually performed on the organ. In many contemporary approaches to worship the prelude has been replaced by gathering songs. However, it is possible to sing gathering songs, then have a prelude before the Entrance hymn.