Washerwoman's Bransle
Sympkyn of the Moor
Date:
Late 16th century
Description:
Washerwoman’s Bransle (also known as Branle des Lavandières) is a lively French dance from the Renaissance period. It belongs to the family of branles—circle or line dances popular in court and country settings across France and beyond. This particular dance is light-hearted and humorous in character, often incorporating mimed movements of washing clothes, and is suitable for both performance and participatory dance events.
Discussion:
Collected in Thoinot Arbeau’s Orchésographie (1589), a manual of Renaissance dance and music, Washerwoman’s Bransle is a fine example of music that was composed specifically to accompany dance steps. The music features a repetitive, bouncy rhythm well-suited to the mimed actions of the dance. It is typically played by a small consort of recorders, viols, or other Renaissance instruments, though it also works well for voices or mixed ensembles.
Its playful character and simple structure make it an enduring favourite in early music and historical dance communities.
Composer:
Traditional / attributed to Thoinot Arbeau (choreography and notation)
Arranged by:
Various arrangements for voices and instruments
Sheet Music:
Available in dance collections and early music anthologies
The arrangement we use is available here as a pdf, or musescore file.
Parts:
Typically instrumental, but arrangements exist for SATB or melody with accompaniment
Type:
Renaissance dance / instrumental or vocal
Language:
Instrumental or French (if sung)
Ranges:
Dependent on arrangement; often within one octave for melody lines, suitable for beginner voices or instruments
Advice for beginners:
Washerwoman’s Bransle is excellent for beginners due to its repetitive structure and light, cheerful tempo. Singers or instrumentalists should focus on keeping a consistent rhythm and clear articulation. Dancers can enjoy the miming aspect, which adds humour and theatricality. It’s a perfect introduction to Renaissance dance music.
Sound Files:
Here are some sound files for reference.