Horses Bransle

Date:
1589

Description:
The “Horse’s Bransle” (Branle des Chevaux) is a lively French Renaissance dance, published in Orchésographie (1589), a dance manual by Thoinot Arbeau (pseudonym of Jehan Tabourot). It mimics the prancing and cantering of horses, often with dancers adding playful movements.

Discussion:
This dance is part of a larger suite of bransles (branles), popular in 16th-century France. The “Horse’s Bransle” is characterized by a bouncy, rhythmic motif and was often used to accompany theatrical or courtly performances. The simple repeated rhythmic figures make it accessible and fun for ensemble playing or dancing.

Composer:
Traditional (melody sourced in Orchésographie by Thoinot Arbeau)

Arranged by:
Numerous arrangements exist, including settings for recorders, viols, keyboard, and mixed Renaissance ensembles.

Sheet Music:
Included in facsimiles and modern editions of Orchésographie. Also available in early dance and recorder anthologies.
The arrangement we use is available here as a pdf, or musescore file.

Parts:
Typically arranged for melody instrument with optional accompaniment; also performed by mixed consorts or recorders.

Type:
Renaissance dance (branle)

Language:
Instrumental (no lyrics)

Ranges:
Melody sits comfortably within soprano/alto recorder range or violin/flute range; easily adaptable for many instruments.

Advice for beginners:
Keep the tempo steady and lively—think of the “prancing” rhythm of horses. Pay close attention to articulation to maintain the dance-like character. Great for early ensemble practice due to its repetitive structure.

Sound Files:
Here are some sound files for reference. All parts,, descant, tenor, bass