gigue
Noun 1. A lively baroque dance: A gigue is a fast and lively dance of French origin, typically in compound meter (such as 6/8 or 12/8), often serving as the final movement of a baroque instrumental suite. 2. The music for such a dance: A piece of music composed in the style and rhythm of the gigue dance.
The word "gigue" is used primarily in the context of classical music history and dance. It refers to both the dance itself and the musical form.
Examples * The concert concluded with a lively gigue from Handel's Suite in D minor. * The cellist performed the gigue with remarkable speed and precision. * In a typical baroque suite, the gigue follows the sarabande.
- Stylistic Features: A gigue often features a fugal texture, meaning its main theme is introduced and then imitated by different instrumental voices in succession. It is characterized by its energetic, dotted rhythms.
- Jig (noun): The English equivalent and likely precursor to the gigue. While related, a "jig" often refers to a folk dance, whereas a "gigue" is specifically the stylized art-music form found in baroque suites.
- Jig
The word "gigue" has a single, specialized meaning related to baroque music and dance. It is not used in general modern English outside of this artistic context.
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music in three-four time for dancing a jig
