Origin: Traditional Baroque dance (English/Irish origins)
Difficulty: Intermediate
Notes Used: D, E, F#, G, A, B, C (high), D (high)
Time Signature: 6/8
Key: D Major
A lively, energetic jig in 6/8 time. Gigues typically end Baroque dance suites with spirited energy!
Practice the opening ascending eighth note pattern.
Feel the bouncing 6/8 rhythm.
Practice the ascending scale passage.
Practice the quick descending patterns.
Play the full gigue with lively, bouncing energy!
The gigue (jig) is a lively Baroque dance that originated from English and Irish folk jigs. It became a standard movement in Baroque instrumental suites, typically serving as the final, most energetic movement. In compound meter (usually 6/8 or 12/8), gigues are characterized by their bouncing, lilting rhythm and rapid note motion. Bach, Handel, and other Baroque composers wrote countless gigues as the exciting conclusions to their dance suites. The form demonstrates the Baroque practice of incorporating folk dance elements into art music. The gigue's energy and virtuosic character made it a favorite ending for suites, sending listeners and dancers away on a high note.
Once you can play this confidently, try: