France, 16th Century

Mostly dances described in Orchesography by Thoinot Arbeau, published in 1589; some from other French sources.

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Branles from Orchesography:

Have their own pages, because there are so many of them . . .

"Basic Branle Set":                  Double,  Simple,  Gai,  Burgundian;      Haut Barrois   

The Branles of Champagne:     Cassandra,  Pinagay,  Charlotte,  La Guerre (War),  Aridan   

                 This suit is also known as the "Mixed Branles", and the "Cut Branles"

Other Regional Branles:           Poictou,  Scottish,  Trihory (the Branle of Brittany)   

Mimed Branles:                        Maltese,  Washerwomen's,  Pease,  Hermits,  Clog,  Horses

Other Branles:                          Torch,  Montarde,  Hay,  Official 

Other Dances from Orchesography:

Some Buffens notes.

A translation and some notes on the Gavotte.

Some notes of the galliard variations (both French and Italian) I've taught recently.

Here is a transcription of Orchesography by Nicolas Graner. His commentary is also in French.

Here is a facsimile on the Library of Congress' website.

Del's Dance Book has music - scores and midis - for many of Arbeau's dances.

Stuff from Arena:

           . . .  may also appear eventually.

If you'd like to read Arena's poem ask to look at my copy (or search J-Stor if you have access to it through a university).