Monday, December 31, 2012

Dances of the Early Renaissance (15th Century)
















As the arts and sciences flourished in the European Renaissance, dance quickly rose to preeminence.  Dance increased in sophistication and social importance through the 14th century, but unfortunately no choreographic descriptions survive from this century.  It is from preserved music tabulatures and literature, such as Boccaccio's Decameron, that we know the names of these lost dances, which include the balli, carola (carole), stampita (estampe, istampita, stantipes), salterello, rotta, trotto and farandole.  Only treatises from later centuries give us any hint as to what these 14th century dances might have looked like.

The 15th century is the first period in western history to have dances documented well enough for reconstruction.  Several surviving manuscripts describe the dances of the aristocracy, for whom dance was an important courtly pastime.  The dances from the northern courts (primarily Burgundy – a large area north of the Alps including some of present-day France, Germany and the Netherlands) tended to be conservative and Gothic.  Southern France (Provence) was more innovative, while Italy was the hotbed of the avant garde.


The primary dance of the Burgundian court was the stately Bassedanse.  This was a memorized sequence of steps performed as a processional, danced to music in "perfect (i.e. triple) time.  One surviving Burgundian dance source is the beautiful handwritten Brussels manuscript, penned in gold and silver ink by an anonymous scribe.  The Italian courts also danced the Bassadanza (as they spelled it), although it was lighter in spirit and somewhat more intricate than the Burgundian Bassedanse.  But the epitome of Italian court dance was the Ballo.  The 15th century Balli were beautifully designed choreographies for a set number of dancers that featured a wide variety of steps, figures and rhythms.  Unlike the Bassadanza, the music and dance phrases of the Balli were inseparable.


Both Bassadanzi and Balli were composed by highly respected dance masters, following specific guidelines of scientific and artistic movement.  The first and most important dance master of the Renaissance was Domenico da Piacenza (ca. 1395 - ca. 1465).  Two of his students represented the next generation of dance masters:  Guglielmo Ebreo (also known as Giovanni Ambrosio) and Antonio Cornazano.  Fortunately all three left detailed manuscripts describing dance theory, deportment, specific choreographies and corresponding music.

While these surviving 15th century instruction books described the dances from the highest courts, the dances of the artisans, burghers, lower classes and peasants remained unrecorded until the end of the 16th century.

— Richard Powers 

19 comments:

  1. Dancing, gambling, hunting and Wrestling were the traditional sources of enjoying by an ancient people. From Mughals to Abbasid's, Ummayad to Safavid's they all were into the activities as its the source of their relaxing and happiness's. If anyone has been to the ancient museum or the Rome or read an essay about Renaissance in 15th BC from some best cheap essay writing service sources they already know the lifestyles of the old Mughals and the adaptability by their successive heirs.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Technologistan is the popoular and most trustworthy resource for technology, telecom, business and auto news in Pakistan.Provide information abou mobile packages like ufone check balance code ,Check Jazz Balance Code

    ReplyDelete
  3. which zodiac sign is the meanest Scorpio is the meanest sign of them all. They're harsh, brutal and often unpleasant. These are the people who never forget and rarely forgive.

    ReplyDelete
  4. Wow! such fabulous full Fakaza tips this so an important and informational blog thanks for sharing...

    ReplyDelete
  5. This is why the Advocate Law Center has provided legal assistance, advocacy, and representation to clients throughout the these communities for decades. With attorneys who are skilled and experienced in family law, personal injury, and criminal defense, we can provide your family with the legal help needed to help your family move forward in life, with each family member’s needs being addressed. injury lawyer near me

    ReplyDelete
  6. The market is flooded with people looking to purchase with greater prudence. Amazon believes that Amazon believe we can aid people to do the same. Amazon Aware can be described as Shop You For available night dress set for womensin the United States, Canada, and Europe provides new products that are in fashion, home, cosmetics as well as home categories.

    ReplyDelete
  7. A business consultant is Family visa Services someone who assists businesses and individuals to manage their finances, develop policies, and Business Consultancy in Dubai meet their goals. If you are looking for a reliable consultant who can help you get ahead, search no further than, I help businesses find their way in the Middle East.

    ReplyDelete
  8. This means you may potentially have to visit a location in person to apply, sign your How To Get A Loan With Bad Credit contract, and even make your monthly payments if you decide to go with certain credit unions.

    ReplyDelete
  9. Thanks for the information! Please continue sharing such valuable kase abusharkh amy berry insights. Looking forward to more updates

    ReplyDelete
  10. Ohpairpk is the leading online market experience with the first check, then pay service. Shop now for Nike, Jordans, Airforce, Slides, Vans, and Skechers shoes.

    ReplyDelete
  11. At Empathy Care Agency, we are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for individuals in need of support. Our comprehensive Home Care Toronto cater to seniors, people with disabilities, and those recovering from illness or injury in Toronto and beyond.

    ReplyDelete

  12. Your blog is truly insightful and informative. Thank you for sharing this valuable information. If you have any inquiries or need assistance regarding MBA programs, please feel free to visit our page.MBA in finance eligibility

    ReplyDelete
  13. Containers Hawaii is your go-to source for top-quality hilo shipping containers in Hawaii, offering a diverse range of services and custom modifications. As Hawaii's trusted container provider, the website provides a user-friendly experience, allowing visitors to explore specials, purchase or rent containers, and explore customization options.

    ReplyDelete
  14. Elevate your storytelling with Digital Bakerz Whiteboard Animation Services. We specialize in transforming ideas into dynamic visual narratives, combining creativity and technology to engage your audience.

    ReplyDelete
  15. An Emergency Dentist Cleveland provides urgent dental care, addressing issues like toothaches, broken teeth, and other dental emergencies. Urgent Care Dentists offer prompt treatment to alleviate pain and prevent further complications.

    ReplyDelete
  16. Exploring the dances of the Early Renaissance is a cultural journey. While immersing in this historical era, consider nourishing your body with Wellhealthorganic Buffalo Milk Tag Its richness and nutrients can enhance your appreciation of the arts

    ReplyDelete
  17. אתר אינטרנט דינמי ומשגשג זה מבוסס בישראל ומציע מגוון רחב של מוצרים ושירותים למבקריו. עם טכנולוגיה מתקדמת ואופנה מתוחכמת, פלטפורמה זו פונה לתחומי עניין והעדפות שונות. עם ממשק ידידותי למשתמש ומבחר עצום של מוצרים באיכות גבוהה, פלטפורמה זו שואפת לספק חווית קניה מקוונת יוצאת דופן. יתרה מכך, האתר מתהדר בבלוג מלא בתובנות, המעדכן את המשתמשים ומשעשעים בנושאים שונים. מחויבת תקרות אקוסטיות לשביעות רצון הלקוחות, היא שואפת כל הזמן לשפר את ההיצע שלה ולשמור על המוניטין שלה כיעד מקוון אמין. בין אם אתם מחפשים את הטרנדים האחרונים או גאדג'טים חדשניים, זהו האתר המבוקש למסע קניות מקוון חלק ומהנה.

    ReplyDelete
  18. Intrepidfood.eu is a culinary treasure trove! The recipes are not only delicious but also diverse, catering to various tastes and skill levels. The website's layout is user-friendly, making it easy to navigate and find exactly what you're looking for. I highly recommend Intrepidfood.eu to all food enthusiasts!

    ReplyDelete