ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Prelude (music)

So, when someone wants to play music, they usually start with a special little song called a "prelude." It's like a little warm-up song that gets them ready to play bigger and fancier songs later.

The prelude is usually short and simple, with just a few notes played in a certain order. Think of it like a little musical appetizer before the main course.

It's called a "prelude" because it comes before the other music that the musician will play. Just like you might have a "prelude" to a big event, like a wedding or a party, the prelude in music is like the opening act to a bigger show.

Some people like to listen to preludes by themselves, because they can be really pretty and relaxing. But mostly, they're just a way for musicians to get ready to play some awesome music for you!