Date:Late 16th century (likely composed around 1590) Description:The “Earl of Essex Measure” is a stately, elegant English court dance from the late Renaissance period. This piece was likely composed in honour of Robert Devereux, the 2nd Earl of Essex, a prominent figure in the Elizabethan court. As a “measure,” it …
Date:Early 16th century (c. 1520) Description:“Brounswycke” is a stately instrumental piece found in Renaissance dance and consort music collections. The name likely refers to Brunswick (Braunschweig), a historical German duchy, hinting at its continental influence or origin. It’s commonly performed as a processional or pavane-like piece, with a steady duple …
Date:Early 17th century (c. 1600–1615) Description:“Black Alman” (or “Black Almain”) is a stately instrumental dance in almain (allemande) style, popular in England during the late Renaissance and early Baroque period. Often attributed to composers like Anthony Holborne or Thomas Morley, it was a well-known tune performed at courtly events, masques, …
Date:Late 16th century (published 1589) Description:“Belle qui tiens ma vie” is a charming and elegant French pavane composed by Thoinot Arbeau, featured in his famous dance manual Orchésographie. The piece is both a dance and a love song, expressing devotion to a beloved with courtly grace. Its slow, stately rhythm …
Date:14th century (Trecento period, c. 1350) Description:Amoroso is a short Italian dance from the 14th century, likely a ballata or estampie style instrumental piece. It exemplifies the lively and graceful character of secular dance music in the Italian Trecento, with a flowing melodic line and rhythmic vitality. Discussion:The piece appears …