SALTARELLO
The Saltarello was a lively, festive dance traced back to Naples, Italy, in the 13th Century and became a masquerade and courting dance in Rome. It is a form of the Galliard, "the dance with uncontrollable zest." The Saltarello is also a form of the Spanish Alta Danza ("high leaping dance"), and Cornazano of the 15th Century equates it with the Pas de Brabant, a Burgundian dance in France. The Saltarello then gave birth to the Quadernaria in 15th Century Germany.
Whether in Italy, Spain, Germany, or France, one thing is certain--Saltarello was "the most cheerful dancing of all!"
The Music Live Folk Studio has put together a compilation of various versions of the Saltarello reflecting its interpretations in various cultures throughout the ages. Please enjoy this multi-cultural rendition of "Saltarello."
Medieval Music - Saltarello della pioggia (Rain Saltarello)