The Pavane began as a dance for couples in Europe
during the Renaissance (16th century). This sedate and
dignified dance appeared in dance manuals published in
England, France and Italy. The dance was generally
paired with another dance of the era, the Galliard.
Though the popularity of the dance itself diminished,
the music continued to be used well into the Baroque
period when it was finally replaced by the Allemande
and Courante.
Gaspar Sanz was born into a wealthy family and thus ...(+)
The Pavane began as a dance for couples in Europe
during the Renaissance (16th century). This sedate and
dignified dance appeared in dance manuals published in
England, France and Italy. The dance was generally
paired with another dance of the era, the Galliard.
Though the popularity of the dance itself diminished,
the music continued to be used well into the Baroque
period when it was finally replaced by the Allemande
and Courante.
Gaspar Sanz was born into a wealthy family and thus had
the advantages of an excellent education. He was a
student at the Spain's oldest university, the
University of Salamanca, where he studied music,
theology and philosophy. He was later appointed
Professor of Music at the university. He also took the
vows of Holy orders and became a priest. Sanz was
employed as an organist to the Spanish Viceroy in
Naples. While working here he came to appreciate the
guitar music of Italian guitarists such as Francesco
Corbetta. Back in Spain, Sanz drew from Spanish musical
heritage in his guitar compositions; he included folk
songs and dances like the Zarabande which featured
elements that later were used in flamenco music.