Period: English Renaissance (possibly medieval origins)
Source: Playford's Dancing Master
Difficulty: Early Intermediate
Notes Used: C, D, E, F, G, A, B, C (high), D (high)
Time Signature: 3/4
Key: C Major
One of the oldest and most famous English country dances, possibly dating back to medieval times. Also known as "The Beginning of the World."
Practice the complete C Major scale in 3/4.
Master the dignified opening.
Practice sustaining tone through dotted half notes.
Work on the descending scale pattern.
Put together the full dance from beginning to end.
"Sellenger's Round" (also spelled "Selenger's Round" or "Sellinger's Round") is one of the most historically significant English country dances. It appears in Playford's 1651 "Dancing Master," but references suggest it may date back to medieval times. The dance is also known as "The Beginning of the World," and some scholars believe it may be one of the oldest surviving English dances. "Round" refers to the circular formation in which dancers performed it - moving in a circle was one of the most ancient and universal dance forms. The name "Sellenger" may refer to St. Leger, a medieval saint, or could be a corruption of an earlier word. The simple, stately melody in 3/4 time has a timeless quality that connects us to centuries of English dance tradition. This dance has remained continuously popular from the Renaissance through modern folk dance revivals, making it a living link to England's musical past.
Once you can play Sellenger's Round confidently, try: