The Gavotte and the Contredanse are both lively French dances from the 17th century. Gaining popularity in the Court of Louis XIV, the Gavotte was a gracious dance in duple meter with four bar phrases, using simple motives and few syncopations. The contredance was a more spirited dance which obtained its beginnings from the English country dances. This dance form also became very popular in France during the time of Louis XIV. These two dances are here arranged for string orchestra by Percy Hall.