Set And Link

The term Set and link is used for a group of Figures Starting with two or three Dancers in a line (either in the Sidelines or Across the set, Facing a similar line, in a Longwise set or on the periphery of a Circular set). It is suitable for both Strathspeys and Quick tempo dances.

On the first two bars, all Take hands and Set. The next two bars are the distinctive feature: the Dancer at the left End of each line Dances In, Pulling right shoulder back, to Finish at the other End of the same line While all the others Cast clockwise. The specific Figures differ in the number of Dancers and their Positions and Facing Directions when they Finish.

There is also a rare, Reverse set and link for 2 couples in which the Dancers follow an anticlockwise path.

The unqualified term, Set and link, is often casually used with reliance on context to differentiate between the 2-couple and 3-couple versions; also, for the latter, it usually means the 8-bar sequence with the 4-bar Set and link for three performed twice, first with lines On the sides and then Across the set.

Here are examples of those Scottish Country Dances for which we have instructions on this site and in which the term, Set and link, either appears explicitly or is implied; note that for a common term these will be a small selection; for a rare term, these may be all that exist:

Branches Together
Finnan Haddies
Gannochy Reel
Go With The Rhythm
Lady Of The Dance (Howard)
Links With St Petersburg
Little Strathspey
Roddy's Reel
Saltire Strathspey
Stewart's Lassie

Dance Video Clip Which Demonstrates Set And Link

Set And Link Video Clip

Links To Pages Related To 'Set And Link'

Complex Figures

Additional search terms: Set+Link.

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