Branle Simple - French Renaissance Dance

Branle Simple

Learn basic branle dance form
Master simple Renaissance dance rhythm
Develop French dance character

About This Piece

Period: French Renaissance

Difficulty: Early Intermediate

Notes Used: C, D, E, F, G, A, B, C (high)

Time Signature: 4/4

Key: C Major

Fingering Review

Full Dance

The "Branle Simple" is the most basic form of branle, a circle dance where dancers swayed side to side. "Simple" means straightforward and uncomplicated.

Practice Tips

Branle character: Simple, swaying dance in a circle
Steady rhythm: Keep an even, dance-like pulse
French style: Elegant but not overly formal
Communal dance: This was danced by groups together

Historical Context

The branle (pronounced "brawl") was one of the most popular dance forms in Renaissance France. Dancers formed a circle or line, holding hands, and performed simple steps side to side with a characteristic swaying motion. The "Branle Simple" was the most basic version, making it accessible to dancers of all skill levels. These dances were performed at court and in villages alike, bringing communities together in social celebration. The branle eventually evolved into the contredanse and influenced English country dancing.

Performance Goal: Play with a steady, swaying quality that evokes the circular dance movement. Keep the rhythm clear and consistent for dancers, with simple, unpretentious elegance.