A Dictionary of Music and Musicians/Bourrée

BOURRÉE. A dance of French origin, which is said to have come from the province of Auvergne. According to other authorities, however, it is a Spanish dance, from Biscay, where it is said to be still practised. The bourrée is often to be found in the older suites, especially in those of Bach, and is of a rapid tempo, in common (allabreve) time. In its general character it presents some features of analogy with the Gavotte, from which, however, it may readily be distinguished; first, because it is in allabreve time, that is, with only two beats in the bar, whereas the gavotte has four; and secondly, that the latter begins on the third crotchet in the bar, while the bourree always commences on the fourth. Like most of the older dance- movements, it consists of two parts, each of which is repeated. In Bach's suites, a second bourrée frequently follows the first, in the same way as in a symphony or sonata, a trio follows a minuet, after which the first bourrée is repeated. There is a good modern example in Sullivan's music to the 'Merchant of Venice.'

[ E. P. ]