Courante: A lively Baroque dance movement characterized by its triple meter and moderate tempo, often found in suites composed during the 17th and 18th centuries.
Context and Significance
The courante holds a significant place in Baroque music, frequently appearing as the second movement in a suite. Its lively nature and triple meter make it an essential component of dance music from the period, contributing to the suite’s overall rhythmic diversity. Courantes are commonly played on keyboard instruments, such as the harpsichord and the organ, as well as by string ensembles. The courante’s flowing rhythm and intricate phrasing challenge musicians to convey both precision and expressiveness.
Historical Background
Originating in the late Renaissance, the courante gained prominence during the Baroque era. The term “courante” comes from the French word “courir,” meaning “to run,” reflecting its quick, running character. Initially, two distinct styles emerged: the Italian corrente, faster and more rhythmically straightforward, and the French courante, slower and more complex. These styles merged over time, influencing composers like Johann Sebastian Bach, who incorporated courantes into his suites, contributing to its lasting legacy in classical music.
Examples
Prominent examples of courantes can be found in Johann Sebastian Bach’s “Cello Suites” and “French Suites,” where the courante serves as a dynamic contrast to the other movements. In Bach’s “Violin Partitas,” the courante demonstrates the violin’s agility and the composer’s skillful handling of harmony and melody. These pieces showcase the courante’s versatility and its capacity to enhance the emotional and rhythmic texture of Baroque compositions.
Related Terms
Sarabande: A slow, stately dance often following the courante in a suite.
Allemande: A moderate-paced dance that typically precedes the courante.
Gigue: A lively dance usually concluding a suite, contrasting with the courante’s style.