Composer: Thoinot Arbeau (1519-1595)
Difficulty: Early Intermediate
Notes Used: C, D, E, F, G, A, Bb, C (high)
Time Signature: 4/4
Key: F Major
One of the most famous Renaissance dances, this pavane's title means "Beautiful one who holds my life." Play with courtly elegance and grace.
Practice the F Major scale with Bb.
Master the noble opening descent.
Practice the graceful ascent.
Work on the answering phrase.
Master the closing on G.
"Belle qui tiens ma vie" is one of the most famous pavanes from the French Renaissance, appearing in Thoinot Arbeau's "Orchésographie" (1589), a comprehensive dance treatise. Arbeau was a Jesuit priest whose real name was Jehan Tabourot. His book preserves invaluable information about Renaissance dance and music. The pavane was a slow, stately dance performed at grand court occasions - weddings, state ceremonies, and formal balls. Dancers would process elegantly in their finest clothes, showing off expensive fabrics and jewels. The title "Belle qui tiens ma vie" (Beautiful one who holds my life) gives the dance a romantic character, despite its ceremonial function. This pavane has remained popular through the centuries, with the melody used by various composers including Peter Warlock in his "Capriol Suite" (1926). It perfectly captures the elegance and refinement of French Renaissance court culture.
Once you can play this pavane confidently, try: