Mastro da Ballo

by Ercole Santucci Perugino

"Mastro da Ballo" by Ercole Santucci Perugino is a dance manual written in the early 17th century. This instructional work is divided into three main treaties aimed at teaching various dance styles and techniques to students. The book likely covers a comprehensive array of dance movements and etiquettes, catering to both beginners and intermediate dancers. The opening portion of the book sets the stage for a detailed exploration of dance, beginning with a series of rules pertaining to fundamental movements such as foot lifts and different types of steps. The author introduces basic principles necessary for mastering dance, emphasizing the importance of technique and form in various styles. It outlines the foundational elements of dancing, preparing the reader for more advanced techniques and the subsequent sections dedicated to specific dances.