Rigaudon is a lively Provençal folk dance in duple or quadruple meter that gained popularity from the 17th to 18th centuries (later also danced at balls and on stage). In the main section, the first and third beats of the quadruple meter are emphasized. Conversely, in the humorous middle section presented pianissimo, this accentual scheme is inverted, and even beats are emphasized, creating a peculiar impression. Furthermore, characteristic features include somewhat dissonant melodic leaps and non-functional harmonic progressions.

Dedicated to Nina Alekseevna Meshcherskaya (1895–1981), known as “Fyaka,” who was the composer’s lover in his youth.