Nobody can be quite sure where, and when the Bourree had its origin. Some authorities give France as its birthplace, and others think it came from the Biscay province of Spain, where, we are told, it is still danced. As early as 1590 it is known to have been introduced into Paris, but the French composers did not adopt it with the same willingness as those of other countries. There are many examples of it in the music of Bach and Handel-for harpsichord or other solo instruments or in orchestral Suites. And both these old masters give it something of dignity as well. as the sturdy good spirits which belong to it by right.
It is a common-time dance, rather like the Gavotte in its four-square v gour and robustness, but it can easily be distinguished from a Gavotte in this way. It always begins with the last beat of the bar, while the Gavotte should begin with the third beat, that is half a bar.
It is always in two sections, each meant to be repeated, and in Bach's and Handel's music is very often followed by a second Bourree, likewise in two sections, each repeated, after which the first one is played again, now without repeats. The form is thus rather like the traditional Minuet or Scherzo with Trio.