Scottish Branles

The Scottish Branles (Branles d'Ecosse) are found in Orchesography by Thoinot Arbeau, which contains two Scottish branles; these were supposed to be the first two in a suite. There are a couple of pieces by Estienne du Tertre with the same title, but they are said not to fit these choreographies.

Steps Used

• Double left crossing (DLx)
• Double right crossing (DRx)
• Single left crossing (SLx)
• Single right crossing (SRx)
• Pied en l'air gauche or kick left (KL)
• Pied en l'air droit or kick right (KR)
• Saut or jump (J)
• Capriole (Cap)

Choreography

As with most branles, these dances are 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 with partners.

First Scottish Branle

DLx DRx
SLx SRx
Repeat

Second Scottish Branle

DLx SRx SLx DRx

DLx SRx
KR KL KR J with Cap