Period: French Renaissance (16th century)
Difficulty: Early Intermediate
Notes Used: C, D, E, F, G, A, Bb, C (high), D (high)
Time Signature: 6/8
Key: F Major
A famous French Renaissance drinking song and dance. "Tourdion" comes from "tourner" (to turn), referring to the spinning dance movements. Play with robust energy!
"Tourdion" is one of the most famous French Renaissance songs, known both as a dance and a drinking song. The text celebrates wine and merriment - "Quand je bois du vin clairet" (When I drink light red wine). The tourdion was typically performed after a basse danse, providing energetic contrast. The spinning, turning movements of the dance matched the effects of the wine celebrated in the lyrics! This piece has remained popular through the centuries and is frequently performed today.