Bourrée

What is Bourrée?

The bourrée is a French dance that features lively, quick footwork and is often performed in groups or by couples. Its steps can be simple or quite intricate, and the dance may be done in a line, circle, or square formation. Depending on the region, the music is in either double or triple time. The bourrée is sometimes called the French clog dance, as dancers in some areas wear wooden shoes. Its energetic style and distinctive rhythm have made it a favorite at both village celebrations and formal gatherings.

Where does Bourrée come from?

The bourrée began in the Auvergne region of France and was later adopted by the French court. It was introduced to the royal court in the mid-1500s and became fashionable at balls during the 17th century. Over time, the bourrée evolved from a rural folk dance to a formal court dance, and its steps were adapted into ballet. Although early records of the dance are limited, it is clear that it has deep roots in both popular and elite traditions. Today, the bourrée is still danced in parts of central France and at folk festivals.

How is Bourrée danced?

Bourrée dancers use quick, skipping steps, sometimes gliding or hopping, with a light and relaxed quality. The basic movement involves a plié (bending the supporting leg) followed by a series of weight shifts, often three per measure. Dancers may hold hands or move independently, depending on the formation. The dance can be performed in pairs, lines, circles, or squares, and the steps can be varied to suit the music or the dancers' skill. In ballet, the pas de bourrée is a well-known step sequence that comes from this dance.

The music of Bourrée

The bourrée is set to lively music in either double or triple time, with a characteristic upbeat or 'pick-up' at the start of each phrase. The music often has a dactylic rhythm, giving it a bouncy feel. While the original instruments are not specified, the dance has inspired many classical composers, including Bach, Handel, and Chopin, who wrote pieces in this style. The bourrée's musical form is usually binary, sometimes with a second section played in a ternary pattern.

Costume and what is carried

In some regions, dancers wear wooden clogs, which add a rhythmic sound to the steps and have led to the nickname 'French clog dance.' Other costume details are not specified in the sources, but the footwear is a distinctive feature in certain versions. In ballet, the steps are performed in soft or pointe shoes, reflecting the dance's adaptation for the stage.

When and where Bourrée is danced

The bourrée is danced at social gatherings, festivals, and folk events in France, especially in the Auvergne and Ariège regions. It was once a highlight of court balls and is still taught and performed at folk dance events. The dance is passed down through local traditions and has also been preserved in ballet training. Today, it remains a part of French folk culture and is enjoyed by dancers of all ages.

Styles of Bourrée

There are several regional styles of the bourrée. In lower Auvergne, the dance is done in triple time, while in high Auvergne, it is in double time. Modern versions can be danced by couples, in circles, squares, or lines. The steps and formations may change depending on the local tradition or the setting, and the dance has also been adapted into ballet and concert performances.

What Bourrée means

The bourrée connects rural and courtly French traditions, reflecting both village life and royal influence. Its steps have become part of classical ballet, and the music has inspired many composers. The dance is still a living tradition in parts of France and is recognized as part of the country's folk heritage. In popular culture, the bourrée has appeared in rock and jazz music, showing its lasting influence beyond its original setting.

Questions people ask about Bourrée

Good reading and sources

• Encyclopaedia BritannicaArticle

• Bourrée on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos and video on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos and video
• Wikidata recordOpen data
• Videos of Bourrée on YouTubeSearch results, not chosen by EveryGhunghroo