Queen's Alman

Date:
Late 16th century (likely composed c. 1590s)

Description:
The Queen’s Alman is a well-known example of a Renaissance dance, specifically an alman, which was a popular courtly dance in the late 16th century. The alman is generally a lively, upbeat dance in duple time (4/4), often characterised by its steady rhythm and lively, catchy melodies. This piece is attributed to John Dowland, one of the leading composers of the Renaissance period, known for his contributions to both vocal and instrumental music.

The title “Queen’s Alman” suggests that it may have been composed in honour of Queen Elizabeth I, a significant patron of the arts during her reign. The dance’s lively and elegant character makes it a fitting tribute to the royal court. It is typically performed in dance suites and is often paired with other dances such as the galliard or pavan.

Discussion:
The Queen’s Alman is a dance with a clear, steady rhythm that is perfect for group or courtly dance. It was typically played on instruments such as the lute, recorder, or viols, and its structure follows the pattern of a typical alman, with repeated sections and a moderate to fast tempo.

As with many Renaissance dances, the Queen’s Alman is often performed with embellishments or variations, especially when played by lutes or viols. This gives performers the opportunity to add ornamentation, such as divisions or grace notes, adding a personal flair to the performance.

The dance itself, in keeping with the spirit of the Renaissance court, would have been an expression of both social elegance and festive celebration. The steady tempo and rhythmic clarity of the alman would have made it easy for dancers to follow, while also allowing for variations in instrumentation and ornamentation.

Composer:
John Dowland (attributed)

Arranged by:
Numerous arrangers, including those who adapted it for ensembles of recorders, viols, and lutes, as well as keyboard settings. Modern editions are often adapted for SATB choral settings.
The arrangement we use is arranged by Joseph Casazza

Sheet Music:
Available in Renaissance dance music collections, such as The Dowland Lute Book and other anthologies of Renaissance dance and courtly music.
The arrangement we use is available here as a pdf or musescore file

Parts:
Commonly arranged for SATB choral arrangements or instrumental groups such as:

• Lute: Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Bass
• Recorder: Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Bass
• Viol: Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Bass

Type:
Renaissance dance – Alman

Language:
Instrumental (though occasionally adapted for vocal settings)

Ranges:
Varies by arrangement, but generally:

• Recorder (Soprano): up to D5
• Lute: up to E4 (depending on tuning)
• Viol: up to F4

Advice for beginners:
The Queen’s Alman is a lively and accessible piece for beginners, especially if they are learning Renaissance-style dance music. For instrumentalists, focus on clear articulation and steady rhythm, and if performing as part of an ensemble, ensure that the group maintains a consistent tempo. The piece offers an opportunity for beginners to practice dynamics and expression, particularly if embellishments are added in the performance.

For dancers, the piece is an excellent introduction to the Renaissance dance style, as its rhythms are easy to follow, but it provides room for more advanced dancers to incorporate jumps and footwork variations.

Sound Files:
Here are some sound files for reference.

• Dance