English Country Reels & Dances from Twelve Country Dances for the Year 1779

Four dances and reels from Sancho’s Twelve Country Dances for the Year 1779, comprise this upbeat medley. Originally composed for harpsichord, the music is definitely reminiscent of British social dancing found during the mid to late 18th century. Country dancing back in the day referred to dance of the upper classes. When music of this style was published, they were organized into collections and dancing figures were often included in the publications. These figures referred to formations made by the dancers such as circular, round, and other geometric patterns including squares and triangles. Overall, country dances as music and as actual dances were fairly simple and not terribly formal.

The four selections featured in this medley include:

Lady Mary Montagu’s Reel

Lord Dalkeith Reel

The Royal Bishop

Duchess of Devonshire