chorale prelude

American  

noun

Music.

1. a composition usually for organ that is based on a chorale or other hymn tune and is typically contrapuntal in style.

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chorale prelude British  

noun

1. a composition for organ using a chorale as a cantus firmus or as the basis for variations

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Etymology

Origin of chorale prelude

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

Whitehead’s own “Orgelbüchlein” project was inspired by a 17-year-old student of his who wrote an “Orgelbüchlein”-style chorale prelude on the English carol “Of the Father’s Heart Begotten” about 15 years ago.

From New York Times • Oct. 24, 2022

An impish Eckardt piece led into a reflective Bach chorale prelude.

From New York Times • Dec. 20, 2021

That composer’s melancholy chorale prelude “Herzliebster Jesu” provided a fitting benediction to an auspicious occasion.

From New York Times • Nov. 24, 2011