Types Of Dance
Scottish Country Dances are classified according to The music to which they are performed.From the Scottish Country Dancing point of view, Reels, Hornpipes and Jigs are all in Quick tempo and use the same steps; Strathspeys are in a slower tempo and have different steps.
A few dances, perhaps more properly classified as Ceilidh dances since they most commonly appear at the informal social events of that name, are performed to other tempi and involve Other steps.
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Types Of DanceScottish country dances encompass a variety of styles and tempos, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are some short descriptions of the different types of Scottish country dances:
Quick Tempo:
- Description: Quick tempo Scottish country dances involve lively and energetic movements. Dancers perform quick steps and formations to faster-paced music, creating an animated and spirited atmosphere.
Reels:
Strathspeys:
- Description: Reels are a common type of Scottish country dance characterized by a fast and lively tempo. The dance often involves quick, turning movements, and reels can be danced in various formations, including reels for three or four dancers.
- Example: The Reel Of The Royal Scots is a popular Scottish country dance reel.
- Description: Jigs are danced to music in a lively compound meter, often 6/8 time. Jigs feature a bouncy and upbeat feel, with dancers performing steps that sometimes include hops and leaps.
- Example: Postie's Jig is an example of a Scottish country dance set to a jig.
- Description: Hornpipes are characterized by a slower tempo and a distinctive rhythm. Dancers execute precise and deliberate steps, often incorporating nautical or maritime themes into the choreography.
- Example: West's Hornpipe is a hornpipe-style Scottish country dance.
- Description: Strathspeys are unique to Scottish country dancing and are characterized by a slower tempo and a strong, driving rhythm. Dancers execute slower, elegant steps and distinctive strathspey traveling movements.
- Example: The Byron Strathspey is a well-known dance set to a strathspey.
- Description: Medleys are sets of dances that combine different types and tempos of Scottish country dances. Dancers transition from one dance to another within the same set, providing variety and excitement.
A medley might include a combination of reels, jigs, and strathspeys in a single dance performance. - Example: Johnnie Walker is a well-known 128 bar medley, 64 bars danced to a strathspey, followed by 64 bars danced to a jig.
- Description: Ceilidh dancing is a form of Scottish social dancing that is often more informal and less structured than formal Scottish country dancing. It is suitable for mixed groups and social events. Ceilidh dances can include a variety of formations, steps, and tempos.
- Example: Ceilidh dances may include popular dances like the Gay Gordons or Strip The Willow.