Sellenger's Round

Master circular Renaissance dance form
Develop steady triple meter
Practice one of England's oldest dances

About This Piece

Period: English Renaissance (possibly medieval origins)

Source: Playford's Dancing Master

Difficulty: Early Intermediate

Notes Used: C, D, E, F, G, A, B, C (high), D (high)

Time Signature: 3/4

Key: C Major

Fingering Review

Full Dance

One of the oldest and most famous English country dances, possibly dating back to medieval times. Also known as "The Beginning of the World."

Practice Tips

Ancient tradition: This dance may be centuries older than Playford's publication
Circular dance: "Round" refers to dancers moving in a circle
Stately character: Play with dignity befitting this historic dance
Triple meter: Feel the gentle 3/4 pulse

Practice Exercises

Practice the complete C Major scale in 3/4.

Master the dignified opening.

Practice sustaining tone through dotted half notes.

Work on the descending scale pattern.

Put together the full dance from beginning to end.

Historical Context

"Sellenger's Round" (also spelled "Selenger's Round" or "Sellinger's Round") is one of the most historically significant English country dances. It appears in Playford's 1651 "Dancing Master," but references suggest it may date back to medieval times. The dance is also known as "The Beginning of the World," and some scholars believe it may be one of the oldest surviving English dances. "Round" refers to the circular formation in which dancers performed it - moving in a circle was one of the most ancient and universal dance forms. The name "Sellenger" may refer to St. Leger, a medieval saint, or could be a corruption of an earlier word. The simple, stately melody in 3/4 time has a timeless quality that connects us to centuries of English dance tradition. This dance has remained continuously popular from the Renaissance through modern folk dance revivals, making it a living link to England's musical past.

Performance Goal: Play with dignity and historical awareness. This ancient dance deserves a stately, respectful interpretation. The 3/4 meter should be steady and clear, perfect for dancers moving in their circular pattern. Imagine centuries of dancers who have moved to this same melody!

Next Steps

Once you can play Sellenger's Round confidently, try:

Learning about the dance's historical significance
Exploring the circular dance formation
Comparing this with other "round" dances from different cultures
Joining a traditional English country dance group
Researching other ancient dances that survive to the present