A sarabande is a slow, stately dance that originated in the 16th century, characterized by its triple meter and often featuring an emphasis on the second beat. It was popular in the courts of Europe, especially during the Baroque period, and is often associated with the music of composers like Johann Sebastian Bach and George Frideric Handel. In addition to being a dance, the sarabande is also a musical form. It typically consists of a series of variations or movements that reflect the dance's graceful and solemn nature. The sarabande has influenced various genres, including classical music and contemporary compositions.