CONTREDANSE, a dance derived from the English country dance, whence also it takes its name, which enjoyed much popu larity both in France and Germany during the 18th century and later. Although the derivation of the name has been disputed, it is confirmed by the character of the dance itself, which had ob vious features in common with those of its English original. The name was also applied to the music for such dances, of which Beethoven and Mozart both left examples.