Date:
Late 16th century (likely composed c. 1590s)

Description:
The Queen’s Alman is a well-known example of a Renaissance dance, specifically an alman, which was a popular courtly dance in the late 16th century. The alman is generally a lively, upbeat dance in duple time (4/4), often characterised by its steady rhythm and lively, catchy melodies. This piece is attributed to John Dowland, one of the leading composers of the Renaissance period, known for his contributions to both vocal and instrumental music.

Date:
Late 14th century

Description:
Stella Splendens is a vibrant pilgrim song from the Llibre Vermell de Montserrat, a manuscript compiled circa 1399 at the monastery of Montserrat in Catalonia. The title translates to “Shining Star”, referring to the Virgin Mary, who is praised in the song as a beacon of light guiding pilgrims to her holy shrine.

Discussion:
This piece is one of the most well-known from the Llibre Vermell. It features a catchy, dance-like melody in a lively triple metre, making it ideal for group singing and processions. The song’s structure allows for responsorial or alternated performance and has been interpreted both as a monophonic piece and with added harmonies in modern settings.

Date:
Early 16th century

Description:
The Old Alman is an English folk tune often categorized as an alman, a popular type of dance music during the Renaissance period. It is lively and rhythmic, typically performed in a 4/4 time signature and known for its simple, repeating structure, which was common in dance music of the time.

Discussion:
The tune is attributed to be part of the repertoire in the early 16th century, and though its precise origin is unclear, it appears in several early music collections. Like other almans, The Old Alman was likely performed in both court and informal settings, often as part of a larger suite of dances. The alman was a staple of the Renaissance dance repertoire, and this particular tune was easy to play, making it accessible for both professional and amateur musicians.

Date:
Late 16th century

Description:
The Scottish Bransle (also spelled branle or brawl) is a Renaissance dance tune included in Thoinot Arbeau’s Orchésographie (1589), a dance manual that describes popular dances of the time along with their music and choreography. Despite its name, the Scottish Bransle is not of Scottish origin but was inspired by French interpretations of Scottish musical style.

Discussion:
Bransles were group dances performed in a circle or line, often involving simple steps suitable for social gatherings. The Scottish Bransle is in duple time and features a repeating structure that aligns with the basic stepping pattern described by Arbeau. The tune is catchy and energetic, making it a favourite in early dance and music circles.

Date:
Late 15th century or early 16th century

Description:
Tinternell is a lively and well-known dance tune, often associated with the Renaissance period. It is commonly categorised as a volta, a type of dance in triple time. The melody is bright and repetitive, with a rhythmic structure that invites movement, making it a popular choice for court dances and festivities of the time.

Discussion:
The origins of Tinternell are somewhat unclear, though it is generally considered to be of German or Flemish origin. It was popular across Europe during the late 15th and early 16th centuries. The piece appears in a number of Renaissance collections and is often arranged for both instrumental and vocal performances. Though it originally would have been played on instruments such as the lute or organ, modern renditions of Tinternell are often arranged for ensembles of early music instruments like viols, recorders, and other period instruments.

Date:
Late 16th century

Description:
Washerwoman’s Bransle (also known as Branle des Lavandières) is a lively French dance from the Renaissance period. It belongs to the family of branles—circle or line dances popular in court and country settings across France and beyond. This particular dance is light-hearted and humorous in character, often incorporating mimed movements of washing clothes, and is suitable for both performance and participatory dance events.

Discussion:
Collected in Thoinot Arbeau’s Orchésographie (1589), a manual of Renaissance dance and music, Washerwoman’s Bransle is a fine example of music that was composed specifically to accompany dance steps. The music features a repetitive, bouncy rhythm well-suited to the mimed actions of the dance. It is typically played by a small consort of recorders, viols, or other Renaissance instruments, though it also works well for voices or mixed ensembles.