Definition: The "Overture" in the song "Ode to Joy" was composed in 1795 by Richard Wagner, a German composer known for his contributions to classical music. The Overture is a dramatic piece that typically opens a concert or opera with a soloist singing arias from a libretto. The word 'Overture' refers to the opening of a musical work, often used in religious contexts. In the context of the Bible, it can refer to a special song being played at the beginning of a sermon (as in Revelation 1:18), an official prayer in a synagogue service, or a hymn or praise hymnal that is sung as part of a public event. In the case of the "Ode to Joy" by Wagner, the Overture was an important opening section for the first performance. It begins with the melody of a single song from the opera's libretto (the text in German), which is then followed by various verses and arias sung by soloists.