Scottish Country Dancing Dictionary

St Bernard's Waltz (Leggett)

Scottish Country Dance Instruction

St Bernard's Waltz (Leggett) (W32) (1937 Melbourne Version)
Couples in ballroom hold, Man facing out, Lady facing in.

Published in the notes below this St Bernard's Waltz (Leggett) video on Youtube.


Dance Instruction Videos

St Bernard's Waltz (Leggett) - Scottish Country Dancing Instruction Video

Dance Information

Also see the dance St Bernard's Waltz (Smith) by Billy Smith.

This 32 bar Waltz, St Bernard's Waltz (Leggett), has become known as "The 1937 Melbourne Version" as it was devised by Melbourne Dance Instructors Harry and Emile Leggett in 1937.


Saint Bernard refers primarily to Bernard of Clairvaux (1090-1153), a Christian saint, mystic, and reformer of the Cistercian order.

Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, born in 1090, is a central figure in medieval Christianity, known for his profound mysticism and pivotal role in the Cistercian monastic movement. As an eloquent writer and contemplative thinker, Bernard's teachings explored the intimate relationship between the soul and God, with his work "On Loving God" remaining a timeless classic in Christian mysticism.

Serving as the abbot of Clairvaux Abbey, Bernard played a crucial role in shaping the Cistercian Order. Under his guidance, the order embraced a return to a more austere and contemplative form of monastic life. This influence spread across Europe, marking Bernard as a key figure in the 12th-century monastic revival.

Beyond the monastery, Bernard actively engaged in theological debates, defending orthodox Christian doctrine against contemporary heresies. His impact extended to the highest levels of the Catholic Church, and he played a significant role in the recognition of the Knights Templar.

Canonized in 1174, Saint Bernard of Clairvaux is celebrated on August 20th as a Doctor of the Church, known for his influential writings and sermons, his efforts to prevent a schism in the Church, and his significant role as a Cistercian abbot and mystic, inspiring believers to reflect on his teachings and spiritual legacy.

St Bernard's Waltz
Old Time Dance At Trocadero, 1937


Published in the notes below this St Bernard's Waltz (Leggett) video on Youtube.
Dance information licensed under this Creative Commons Licence 3.0.
Text from this original Saint Bernard article on Wikipedia.
Image copyright State Library Of New South Wales Collection [No restrictions], via Wikimedia Commons.

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