Here's A Hand (Firth)

Scottish Country Dance Instruction

1- 8 1s also 4s in prom hold dance reel of 3 with 2s/3s (RSh to 2M/3M to start) and 1s+4s end in middle
9-16 1s+4s dance RH across, 1s and 4s change places with corner persons RH and set to them
17-24 All dance ¾ double diagonal reel of 4 giving LH in centre (end with 3s in 1st place, 4s and 1s in middle and 2s in 4th place opposite sides)
25-32 4s+1s dance LH across while 3s+2s chase clockwise ½ way and all on sides set to partner and change places RH. (2)4(1)3

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

Dance Information

The title of this dance, Here's A Hand, comes from the Auld Lang Syne Poem written by Robert Burns in 1788 and set to the tune of a traditional folk song.

It is well known in many countries, especially in the English-speaking world, its traditional use being to bid farewell to the old year at the stroke of midnight and often to round off an evenings Scottish country dancing.

Auld Lang Syne (literally "old long since") is thought to be the second most commonly sung song in the whole world regardless of country, race or religion, after Happy Birthday.

Burns' Original line "And there's a hand my trusty friend!" is commonly written and sung as "And here's a hand, my trusty fiere".

Auld Lang Syne Song - Information Video

"Illustration To Robert Burns' Poem Auld Lang Syne By J.M. Wright And Edward Scriven" John Rogers (c. 1808-1888), engraving, c. 1841

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