chorale prelude

noun

, Music.

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

chorale prelude

noun

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of chorale prelude¹

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

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

From New York Times

Half symphony, half oratorio, “The Prison” includes this striking chorale prelude, with dark and light in the same bars, at its heart.

From New York Times

The restrained opening of the first movement came across like a hybrid of a Bach chorale prelude — complete with a walking Baroque bass line — and a stirring Romantic fanfare.

From New York Times

Then this alluring theme starts, and a hint of what could be a Bach chorale prelude filters through.

From New York Times