Hermits Branle

The Hermits' branle is found in Orchesography by Thoinot Arbeau. It is a mimed branle.

Steps Used

• Double left (DL)
• Double right (DR)
• Pied en l'air gauche or kick left (KL)
• Pied en l'air droit or kick right (KR)
• Pieds joints or feet together (Close)
• Marque pied gauche or touch left toe to ground while landing on the right foot (TTL)
• Marque pied droit or touch right toe to ground while landing on the left foot (TTR)

Choreography

As with most branles, this dance is performed in a line of people holding hands or (if enough people are present) a circle. It is not necessary for the dancers to be paired into partners.

The two strains of the tune alternate until such time as the musicians decide to stop.

1st Strain

DL DR (Repeat)

2nd Strain

KR KL KR Close (during these three kicks, the dancers turn to face outwards)
TTR TTL TTR Close (during these toe touches, the dancers cross their arms and bow)
KR KL KR Close (during these three kicks, the dancers turn to face inwards again)
TTR TTL TTR Close (during these toe touches, the dancers cross their arms and bow)