vorspiel

[ fawr-shpeel, fohr- ]

noun

1. an introductory movement to a musical work, especially a prelude or overture.

Word History and Origins

Origin of vorspiel¹

< German, equivalent to vor- pre-, fore ¹ + Spiel game, play

Example Sentences

The Vorspiel of "Siegfried" is expressive of Mime's planning and plotting.

From Project Gutenberg

In the early portion of this vorspiel only the string instruments are used.

From Project Gutenberg

This "Valkyr" Vorspiel is a masterly representation in tone of a storm gathering for its last infuriated onslaught.

From Project Gutenberg

Through themes which are familiar from earlier portions of the work, the Vorspiel rises to a crashing fortissimo.

From Project Gutenberg

Then to the sombre, questioning phrase of the Motive of Fate, the action begins to disclose the significance of this Vorspiel.

From Project Gutenberg