Period: French Renaissance
Difficulty: Early Intermediate
Notes Used: D, E, F#, G, A, B, C, D (high)
Time Signature: 2/4
Key: G Major
A lively, cheerful branle. "Gay" means merry or joyful - play with infectious energy!
The "Branle Gay" was a livelier version of the branle, performed at a quicker tempo with more energetic steps. "Gay" in Renaissance French meant cheerful or merry (not its modern meaning). This branle would have been danced later in the evening when spirits were high and dancers warmed up. The 2/4 meter creates a bouncy, energetic feel perfect for lively dancing.