noun
beginning; start; first in a series
Used in the pattern ...を皮切りに(して) to mark the first event or action that kicks off a series. Often found in news reports and formal announcements.
東京公演を皮切りに、全国ツアーが始まる。
Starting with the Tokyo performance, a nationwide tour will begin.
彼の新曲発表を皮切りにして、次々と新情報が公開された。
Beginning with the release of his new song, new information was disclosed one after another.