basics

To begin practicing the Art of Preluding, it is advised to study the following basic elements:

1. Harmonic progressions, forming the harmonic backbone or skeleton of a prelude. For advanced practice, see the harmonizations page.

2. The main techniques for spreading harmonies over the keyboard (see also diminutions):
   a. Arpeggios and broken-chord patterns
   b. Scales and scale patterns
   c. Embellishment notes such as neighbor notes and suspensions

3. Application across all 24 keys within the Circle of Fifths. 

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Creative imagination and spontaneity are essential, allowing preludes to emerge freely and expressively.

At a later stage, modulation can be practiced; for this, see the subpage under “Harmonizations.”

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The following examples taken from Vingt-six Préludes dans les modes majeurs et mineurs les plus usité, Op.26 (London, 1818) by Johann Baptist Cramer (1771-1858) offer a clear illustration of the basic elements essential for preluding. Visit the subpages to explore each technique in detail. For advanced methods, see the pages on 'harmonizations' and 'diminutions'.