shake
English era
Definition
The standard English Baroque ornament: a rapid alternation between the written note and the note above. In Purcell's context, the shake typically begins on the upper note and has a definite closing turn unless marked otherwise.
Interpretive Guidance
Begin shakes on the beat and on the upper note. The speed of the shake should suit the context — slower and more expressive in lyrical movements, quicker and lighter in dance movements. Shakes on harpsichord should be crisp; on piano, more nuanced.