'Prelude' is a new red raspberry developed by Cornell University at the New York State Agricultural Experiment Station in Geneva, New York. 'Prelude' is noted for having a very early summer crop, peaking in production well before all other standard varieties. 'Prelude' matures a high percentage of its fruit in late June and very early July. 'Prelude' plants are hardy and vigorous. Average fruit size and yield are similar to other early varieties. 'Prelude' fruit are attractive and easy to harvest. Fruit are high quality and firm, making them suitable for shipping and retail marketing. Early fruiting gives growers the advantages of premium first fruit prices and having fruit for sale over a longer season. 'Prelude', along with the release of 'Encore' (which extends the growing season approximately one week later), will significantly increase the raspberry harvest season.