Homonym: ouverture (Opening)
An "ouverture" is a musical term that refers to an introductory piece, often found at the beginning of an opera or orchestral suite. It sets the stage for the performance, providing a preview of the themes and moods that will be explored. The term is derived from the French word for "opening."
In classical music, the most famous examples of ouvertures are those composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Richard Wagner. These pieces are typically orchestral and can vary in style, ranging from lively and energetic to more somber and reflective, depending on the overall tone of the work that follows.