A musical form or dance dating back to 17th century Europe. It is similar in many respects to a Gavotte however it has a quicker and more upbeat tempo. A bouree is generally in common time.

The Bourree is believed to have originated in France or Spain and like the Gavotte, it was most popular during the Renaissance.

A Bouree also generally has two parts that are of a similar structure but may involve some kind variation on the original melody.

The name 'Bourree' also refers to a series of dances, the most well known of which is the French Bourree. This dance involves a group of men and women facing each other, joining hands and engaging in a variety of dance steps. The majority of these steps involve turns and spins that are performed without letting go of the other's hands.


Resource:
Wharram, Barbara. Elementary Rudiments of Music. Frederick Harris Music Co.: 1969.
http://www.larkinam.com/MenComNet/Business/Retail/Larknet/ArtBourree

Bour*r'ee (?), n. [F.] Mus.

An old French dance tune in common time.

 

© Webster 1913.

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