The word 'prelude' has its origin in Latin. It is modified from the word praeludere. It was adapted by Medieval Latin as praeludium. Prelude means something that is preliminary. It is a preface for something. A short musical piece was performed as prelude to the Salsa competition. In musical context, prelude denotes a piece of music that is performed as an introduction to another composition of music or another event.
When something serves as a prelude to something else, it serves as start or introduction of something.
When something serves as a prelude to something else, it serves as start or introduction of something.