A Menuet is a graceful dance that originated in the 17th century, often performed in triple meter. It was popular in the courts of Europe, especially in France, and is characterized by its elegant and measured movements. The dance typically features a moderate tempo and is often accompanied by music composed for string instruments.
In addition to being a dance, the Menuet also refers to a musical form commonly found in classical compositions. Composers like Johann Sebastian Bach and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart included menuets in their works, often as a third movement in symphonies and chamber music. The form is known for its distinct A-B-A structure, where the first section is repeated after a contrasting middle section.