- Master robust country dance style
- Develop strong rhythmic character
- Practice energetic Renaissance dance
About This Piece
Period: English Renaissance
Source: Playford's Dancing Master
Difficulty: Early Intermediate
Notes Used: C, D, E, F, G, A, B, C (high)
Time Signature: 4/4
Key: C Major
Fingering Review
Full Dance
One of Playford's most famous dances, with a wonderfully descriptive name! Play with robust energy and country vigor.
Practice Tips
- Robust character: "Rufty Tufty" suggests something hearty and vigorous
- Strong rhythm: Play with clear, strong articulation
- Country energy: This is rustic, earthy dance music
- Steady tempo: Keep a strong, dance-like pulse throughout
Practice Exercises
Practice the C Major scale.
Master the repeated note opening.
Practice the sustained half notes.
Work on the complete descending scale.
Master the closing gesture.
Historical Context
"Rufty Tufty" is one of the most well-known dances from Playford's Dancing Master. The name itself is wonderfully evocative - "rufty tufty" suggests something rough, ready, and vigorous, perhaps describing the hearty character of the dance or the dancers themselves! This is quintessential English country dance music: straightforward, energetic, and communal. The dance would have been performed at village festivities, harvest celebrations, and other rural gatherings. Unlike more refined court dances, country dances like Rufty Tufty celebrated the robust, earthy pleasures of rural life. The simple harmonic structure and memorable melody made it easy for musicians to learn and for dancers to follow. "Rufty Tufty" has remained popular in the folk dance revival and is still performed today at traditional English country dance events, connecting modern dancers to their Renaissance ancestors!
Next Steps
Once you can play Rufty Tufty confidently, try:
- Adding strong rhythmic accents for dance emphasis
- Learning the traditional dance steps
- Playing with other traditional musicians
- Exploring modern English country dance groups