overture
n. countablen. a piece of music played at the start of an opera or play. It can also mean a friendly move or suggestion made to start a conversation or a deal.
n. an orchestral piece at the beginning of an opera, suite, or other extended composition; also refers to an introductory act or proposal made toward establishing a relationship or agreement.
The orchestra played a famous overture before the opera began.
The company made a formal overture to its competitor regarding a potential merger next year.
While the musical overture established the production's somber themes, the diplomatic overtures occurring backstage were far more optimistic in tone.
From Middle English overture, from Anglo-Norman, Middle French overture, from Old French overture. Doublet of aperture.
Often used with the preposition 'to' when referring to a social or business proposal.