| The Earl of Essex Measure | |
Measure [Harl 367] | Couples in procession Beginning |
| |
| I | A1 | 1-12 | | 4 × (Double forward on left, Single back on right) | | | | the Earle of Essex | A double forward & a single backe 4 times then |
| A2 | 1-12 | | |
| B1 | 1-4 | | Set left and right | | | | to singles | sides |
| | 5-8 | | Double forward on left | | | | with a double forward & |
| | 9-12 | | Double back on right | | | | a double backe |
| |
| II | | | | Repeat I | | | | all over again & soe end |
| |
Reconstruction is by Peter and Janelle Durham. Text is from Wilson’s transcription of Harleian 367.
Notes
Sources. Appears in all seven manuscripts, as the third of the Old Measures (appears twice in RCM). Music appears in RCM 1119.
Reconstruction. Section B: In the music that appears in RCM, the cadence of the last 12 counts seems to divide up as two 3-count sections followed by a 6-count section. In DO, the final part of B is described as double forward, single back, instead of double forward, double back. Pugliese and Casazza recommend adopting this version of the steps, and lengthening the time given to the first two singles of part B so that the steps accord with the cadence of the dance. (Thus, the B part becomes: 1-6 Single left, right (each in 3 counts). 7-12 Double forwards on left, single back right.) We have chosen to retain the more common version of the steps, with the concluding double, and retain the usual length of the step.
Recordings. Dances from the Inns of Court: 2 and 4 repeats. Musick for Dauncinge: 4 repeats, nice tempo, fine sound. A Lively Shape of Dancing: Dances of Shakespeare’s Time, by the Broadside Band.