The Clarsach (Ryer)

Scottish Country Dance Instruction

1- 8 1s+2s circle 4H round to left; turn partners 2H and 1s cast 1 place own sides as 2s dance up. 213
9-16 1s dance diagonal R&L (Man down, Lady up). (3)1(2)
17-24 3s+1s+2s set advancing, 3s+2s retire while 1s petronella turn into lines of 3 across, all set advancing, 3s+2s retire while 1s petronella turn to 2nd place opposite sides
25-32 All set and link for 3 twice. 213

(MINICRIB. Dance crib compiled by Charles Upton, Deeside Caledonian Society, and his successors)

Keith Rose's Crib Diagrams

The Clarsach (Ryer) - Full Size And Key To Symbols

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Dance Information

The Scots word derives directly from the Gaelic "Clarsach" which means "A harp" of any type; in English usage, it refers exclusively to the traditional small harp. "Clarsach" should be pronounced as "Klahrssahch" in English, with almost even stress on the two syllables and where:
  "ah" is pronounced as in "shah";
  "ss" is as in "less"; and
  "ch" is as in "loch".
See Gaelic Dance Names for more information on Gaelic spelling and pronunciation.

Replica Of 15th Century Scottish Clarsach, 'The Queen Mary Harp'

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