Hermits Branle

The branle Hermit is found in Orchesography by Thoinot Arbeau. It is a the 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 (||)
• Marque pied gauche or quick single left with hovering foot (ShL)
• Marque pied droit or quick single right with hovering foot (ShR)

Choreography

As with all 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 verse and chorus alternate until such time as the musicians decide to stop.

Verse

DL DR (Repeat)

Chorus

KL KR KL || (during these three kicks the dancers turn to face outwards.)
ShL ShR ShL || (during these hovering singles dancers cross their arms and bow their heads.)
KL KR KL || (during these three kicks the dancers turn to face inwards again.)
ShL ShR ShL || (during these hovering singles dancers cross their arms and bow their heads.)