Sarabande
Also known as: Sarabanda
History & Cultural Context
The Sarabande emerged in Spain and the Spanish colonies of Mexico during the late 16th-early 17th centuries and was adopted into European court culture during the Baroque period. The dance featured slow, stately movement with emphasis on specific beats and ornate arm movements. Unlike the minuet's delicate character, the sarabande had a more austere, majestic quality. Famous composers including Bach, Handel, and Scarlett wrote sarabandes, and the dance typically opened instrumental suites. The sarabande remained popular through the 18th century.
Cultural Significance
The Sarabande represented the Spanish influence on Baroque court culture and showcased European fascination with exotic dance forms. Its adoption by major composers elevated it to high artistic status. The dance's majesty and grandeur made it a favorite for formal court occasions.
Peak Popularity
Key Historical Figures
- Double
- Single
Notable Codifiers
- Jean-Philippe Rameau
Related Dances
More in Historic Baroque Court
Minuet
The Minuet was a stately Baroque couple dance with small, delicate steps and refined posture. It became the quintessential court dance of the 17th-18th centuries, symbolizing aristocratic elegance.
Gavotte
The Gavotte was a moderate-tempo Baroque couple dance featuring hopping steps and beginning on the third beat of the measure. It was second in popularity only to the minuet in 18th-century courts.
Bourrée
The Bourrée was a brisk Baroque couple dance featuring quick steps and a bouncy character. It was typically performed as part of dance suites and appeared in instrumental compositions by major composers.
Courante
The Courante was a running Renaissance/Baroque couple dance featuring rapid, flowing steps and turning figures. It was one of the most popular dances of the 16th-17th centuries.