A Dictionary of Music and Musicians/Entree

by Ebenezer Prout

ENTREE, (1) A name formerly given to a small piece of music in slow 4-4 time, with the rhythm of a march, and usually containing two parts, each repeated. It received its name from the fact of its being largely used in theatrical and ballet music to accompany the entry of processions, etc. An example of this kind of Entrée may be found in J. S. Bach's 'Suite in A for piano and violin.' (2) The word Entrée (or its Italian equivalent Intrada) is also used as synonomous with 'introduction,' and is applied to the opening piece (after the overture) of an opera or ballet.

[ E. P. ]