Classes taught in 2013/2014
More specific information on steps, formations and dances can be found at:
- Scottish Country Dancing Dictionary
- Scottish Country Dance Database (SCDDB)
- the help menu of the RSCDS page
2014-06-18 (Ann/Felix - from the planning)
first half
- dances:
- Waltz Country Dance (W40, 2RR, RSCDS IV 8)
- The Summer Assembly (R88, 4S, RSCDS XXXV 8)
- Sugar Candie (S32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXVI 9)
- Tribute to the Borders (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS Leaflets 31)
- The Reel of the 51st Division (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS XIII 10)
advanced half
- dances:
- Quarries' Jig (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXXVI 3)
- The Chequered Court (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS XLII 3)
- Gang the Same Gate (S32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXXVI 4)
2014-06-11 (Ann)
- dances:
- Waltz Country Dance (W40, 2RR, RSCDS IV 8)
- The Summer Assembly (R88, 4S, RSCDS XXXV 8)
- Mairi's Wedding (R40, 3/4L, Cosh: 22 SCD)
- The Peat Inn (R32, 4/4L, Goldring: Goldring Graded 1)
- J. B. Milne (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS 30 popular, Vol 2 38)
- notes:
- we had one 4-couple set for the most part and one 5-cple for one dance
2014-06-04 (Ann/Felix?)
first half
- dances:
- Catch the Wind (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS XLV 5)
- Culla Bay (S32, 4S, RSCDS XLI 2)
- The Wee Cooper O' Fife (J40, 2/4L, Foss: Song Tunes)
advanced half
- dances:
- Anniversary Reel (R32, 4/4L, RSCDS XXXVI 7)
- Follow Me Home (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXXVIII 3)
- dances (requested by Ann besides those above, but unclear which were finally done ?):
- The Enchanted Garden (S32, 3/4L, Boyd: World .. Corner)
- Miss Johnstone of Ardrossan (R32, 5/5L, RSCDS 30 popular, Vol 2 42)
- The Royal Patron (R32, 3/4L, Whitley: QE Diamond Jubilee)
- Gothenburg's Welcome (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXXVII 3)
- Scott Meikle (R32, 4/4L, RSCDS XLVI 3)
2014-05-28 (Felix)
- dances:
- no information
2014-05-24 (Saturday preparation class, Felix?)
- dances:
- no information
2014-05-21 (Ann/Felix)
first half
- dances:
- Hooper's Jig (J32, 3/4L, MMM)
(JUST the final 8 bars to clear up the progression when many things happen at once. We walked this through for each couple. We had danced it on 14.5.2014) - J. B. Milne (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS 30 popular, Vol 2 38)
(we walked this through for each couple as it is a ‘meanwhile’ dance. The beginners managed it very well in the final dancing of it.) - The Gentleman (S32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXXV 5)
(only one walkthrough and a reminder of the diamond poussette: then after a recap, we danced it in two-4-cpl sets)
- Hooper's Jig (J32, 3/4L, MMM)
advanced half
- dances:
- no information
2014-05-14 (Ann)
- dances:
- The Wild Geese (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXIV 3)
(think of geese exchanging out to preserve their energy) - Hooper's Jig (J32, 3/4L, MMM)
- Sugar Candie (S32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXVI 9)
- The Wild Geese (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXIV 3)
- advanced dance:
- Anna Holden's Strathspey (S32, 2/4L, RSCDS XLII 2)
- notes:
- we had sometimes two 4-cpl sets, usually 2 3-cpl sets; we ended with a 7-cpl set! 16 people
- teaching (steps):
- skip change: with casting
- setting: set advancing; set on the spot (balance in line)
- Strathspey travelling step
- teaching (figures):
- RL
- 6-bar reels of 3
- RA LA
- Corner/partner
- Cross and cast: up/back
- teaching (new figures):
- Set in Strathspey time, followed by Petronella in Tandem
2014-05-10 (Saturday preparation class, Bexi)
- dances:
- Miss Allie Anderson (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS Leaflets 16)
- Broadford Bay (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS Leaflets 2)
- The Chequered Court (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS XLII 3)
- The Wee Cooper O' Fife (J40, 2/4L, Foss: Song Tunes)
- The Royal Patron (R32, 3/4L, Whitley: QE Diamond Jubilee)
- The Rocking Horse (M96, 4S, Johnstone: Merse)
- Nothing in Common (S32, 2/3L, Mayr: Merse)
- Best Set in the Hall (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS XLVI 7)
2014-05-07 (Ann)
- dances:
- John of Bon Accord (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXXIII 5)
- Argyll Strathspey (S32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXXV 3)
(review from two weeks ago: Tournee) - Tribute to the Borders (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS Leaflets 31)
- St Andrew's Fair (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS 5/1982 2)
(RECAP only: in two 3-cpl sets)
- advanced dance:
- Gang the Same Gate (S32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXXVI 4)
(Set and Link for 3)
- Gang the Same Gate (S32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXXVI 4)
- notes:
- We had two 4-cpl sets for the first half (two dances) and two 3-cpl sets for the final 3 dances.
- teaching (steps):
- Skip change: singly and with a partner in promenade hold and also in allemande hold: to feel the rhythm of your partner and to learn to guide your partner while dancing.
- Skip change/setting: alternately: 2-bar phrases: to prepare for John of Bon Accord
- Strathspey: traveling step
- teaching (figures reviewed):
- Half reels of 3: for John of Bon Accord and Tribute to the Borders
- RL
- Allemande
- Tournee
- teaching (figures new):
- Half reels of 3: alternating RS;LS;RS;LS: for beginners
- Set and link for 3: for advanced only
2014-04-30 (Ann/Heiko)
first half
- dances:
- EH3 7AF (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS XL 6)
- Miss Gibson's Strathspey (S32, 3/4L, RSCDS Leaflets 18)
- Quarries' Jig (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXXVI 3)
- notes:
- with two 4-cpl sets: 16 people for the first half
- teaching (steps):
- skip change
- setting and moving between the two
- strathspey traveling
- Strathspey setting and moving between the two
- teaching (figures):
- RA LA
- corner/partner
- Promenade
- teaching (new figures):
- The Knot
- Promenade with cast
advanced half
- dances:
- Da Rain Dancin' (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS 30 popular, Vol 2 30)
(1/4 Hello-Goodby, 3/4 Turn) - Jean Martin of Aberdeen (S32, 3/3L, Johnstone: Magazine)
(Bourrel) - Catch the Wind (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS XLV 5)
(repeated to fill the remaining time)
- Da Rain Dancin' (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS 30 popular, Vol 2 30)
- notes:
- we had 15 dancers (incl. teacher), thus using a 7-couple set (Da Rain Dancin’) or two 3-couple sets (after some people left early) in the advanced half!
- teaching (figures):
- 1/4 Hello-Goodby, 3/4 Turn, 1/4 Hello-Goodby, 3/4 Turn (for Da Rain Dancin’)
- Bourrel for two couples (for Jean Martin of Aberdeen) walking, counted through and danced to music from both positions
2014-04-26 (Saturday preparation class, Bexi+Felix)
- dances:
- EH3 7AF (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS XL 6)
- J. B. Milne (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS 30 popular, Vol 2 38)
(meanwhile figure) - The Dream Catcher (S96, 4S, RSCDS XLV 9)
- Major Ian Stewart (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXXV 4)
(Hello-Goodbye Setting) - The Prince of Sutton Coldfield (R32, 3/4L, Downey: Tuatara Collection)
(Hello-Goodbye Poussette) - Miss Gibson's Strathspey (S32, 3/4L, RSCDS Leaflets 18)
- The Ambassadors' Reel (R32, 3/4L, Mayr: Vienna Book)
- notes:
- there were about 17 dancers present (incl. teacher): i.e. we had two 4-couple sets or danced in a 7-couple set
- teaching (figures + steps):
- Meanwhile figure for J B Milne
- Pas de Basque, travelling
- Hello Goodbye Setting
- Hello Goodbye Poussette
2014-04-21 (Ann)
- dances:
- The Highland Rambler (R40, 3/4L, RSCDS 30 popular, Vol 2 34)
(A note: there is no tune in the computer for this dance so I used another 40-Reel that worked fine) - Pelorus Jack (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS XLI 1)
(Falcon reels) - Argyll Strathspey (S32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXXV 3)
(Tournee, look at your partner while spiral out) - Hooper's Jig (J32, 3/4L, MMM)
- The Gentleman (S32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXXV 5)
- The Highland Rambler (R40, 3/4L, RSCDS 30 popular, Vol 2 34)
- notes:
- two 4-couple sets for the most part
- teaching (steps):
- Skip change with casting OUT
- teaching (figures):
- Strathspey figure for progression: The Tournee
- teaching (figures reviewed):
- RA LA
- half RS reels of 3
- RL
2014-04-09 (Ann/Heiko)
first half
- dances:
- Postie's Jig (J32, 4/4L, RSCDS 30 popular, Vol 2 18)
- The Gentleman (S32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXXV 5)
- notes:
- We had 4 3-cpl sets for teaching and 1x4 cpl and 1x5 cpl for dancing the Gentleman
- teaching (steps):
- Foot positions: reviewed each time
- Slip step
- Skip change: long steps, short steps
- Setting step: changing from setting to skip change
- Strathspey traveling and setting
- teaching (figures):
- half 8
- half reels of 3, RS
- diamond poussette
- teaching (new figures):
- half LR
- half reels of 4
advanced half
- dances:
- Scott Meikle (R32, 4/4L, RSCDS XLVI 3)
- The Rocking Horse (M96, 4S, Johnstone: Merse)
- Best Set in the Hall (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS XLVI 7)
(repeating the corner figure)
- notes:
- we had two 4-couple sets in the advanced half!
2014-04-02 (Ann)
- dances:
- The Gates of Edinburgh (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS XV 5)
(cross-over reels; setting across and setting on the sidelines) - Monymusk (S32, 3/4L, RSCDS XI 2)
(setting across, setting on the side, circle followed by RS 6-bar reels of 3 on sides) - The Reel of the Royal Scots (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS Leaflets 27)
(DT position, following figure, TR for corners, pass RS; circle - note: in the TR, the corners dace for 4 bars)
- The Gates of Edinburgh (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS XV 5)
- advanced dance:
- Quarries' Jig (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXXVI 3)
(meanwhile figure: set in 2 corners; XR, XL on first man’s diagonal; move clockwise to new position)
- Quarries' Jig (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXXVI 3)
- notes:
- There were 21 people: mostly two 4-cpl sets, we also used 7 cpl set.
- teaching (steps):
- Slip step: another way of closing besides ‘Step together’: a gentle hop with both feet together to keep the appearance of the slip step, then a hop to start back in the other direction as usual.
- Skip change: closing in third and really feeling the feet touch; used LONG steps as well as SHORT steps.
- Setting: closing in third in front, and how to incorporate the extension in 4th position into the preparation for the setting step as well as to end it.
- Strathspey: closing in third in front for traveling: the DOWN as preparation for the step; LONG steps
- Strathspey: setting steps: same thing but sideways
- teaching (figures):
- Reels of 3 on opposite sides followed by Reels of 3 on own sides.: Cross-over reels or ‘Gates of Edinburgh Reels’
- Mirror reels as they are in the Gates of Edinburgh
- circle followed by RS reels of 3 for 6 bars, on the sidelines
- Setting in lines across followed by setting in lines of 3 on the sidelines: in both reel time and strathspey
2014-03-29 (Saturday preparation class, Heiko)
- dances:
- The Ambassadors' Reel (R32, 3/4L, Mayr: Vienna Book)
- Sands of Morar (S32, 3/4L, RSCDS XLV 6)
(Tourbillon) - The Music Will Tell You (R32, 4/4L, RSCDS XLI 6)
- Gothenburg's Welcome (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXXVII 3)
(Dance to each corner and set) - The Enchanted Garden (S32, 3/4L, Boyd: World .. Corner)
- Pelorus Jack (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS XLI 1)
(reels of three in tandem with lead change - a.k.a. Falcon Reels, Dolphin Reels) - Catch the Wind (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS XLV 5)
- notes:
- there were about 17 dancers present (incl. teacher): i.e. we had two 4-couple sets
- teaching (figures):
- Tourbillon
- dance to each corner and set
- reels of three in tandem with lead change (a.k.a. Falcon Reels, Dolphin Reels)
2014-03-26 (Ann/Felix)
first half
- dances:
- The Machine without Horses (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS XII 12)
(focus was on the ‘following’ figure: 1s followed by 2s, lead down, cast around 3s, lead up, cast to 2nd place; focus also on: Be READY: S, cast, RA with 3s; S, cast up, LA with 2s) - Lady Dumfries (R32, 3/4L, MMM)
(to review DT, SXR; SXR: but 1s pass RS into place for DT) - Figure Rondel only
(The Rondel proved to be quite tricky due to the crossing and curving round; the old manuel says: nearer hands held; the Strathspey server suggest: 1s RH for first Crossing; Ladies LH for second crossing. I used the RH and LH variation. This helped to remember to cross with Lady in front or 1st couple in front. Discussion anyone? I feel that it is neater with just holding nearer hands and to remember to give 1s or 1st lady priority when crossing.)
- The Machine without Horses (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS XII 12)
- notes:
- about 18 dancers (one 4-cpl and one 5-cpl set)
- teaching (steps):
- Foot positions for both skip change and strathspey
- Setting: I suggested that they exaggerate the knee coming up in order to avoid a two-beat and to have more focus on ‘DOWN’ for the start.
- Counting: 8 bars, casting, 8 bars, casting back: to get the two ways of casting: one for men and the other for women.
- Setting for 2, casting in skip change and counting to 8; repeat: preparation for dance: Machine Without Horses
- Strathspey traveling and setting: review
- teaching (figures):
- RL
- RA LA
- DT
- SX
- New: The Rondel: for Strathspey time; ONLY did the figure from different positions
advanced half
- dances:
- Miss Johnstone of Ardrossan (R32, 5/5L, RSCDS 30 popular, Vol 2 42)
- Nothing in Common (S32, 2/3L, Mayr: Merse)
- Best Set in the Hall (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS XLVI 7)
- notes:
- about 12 dancers (up to two 3-cpl sets)
2014-03-19 (Ann)
- dances:
- Frog in the Middle (J32, 3/4L, MMM)
(for DT as well as setting across the dance, moving to sidelines and setting again) - Invercauld's Reel (S32, 3/4L, RSCDS XI 10)
(to review: STB with corners followed by 6-bar reel/3 on sidelines; Has a different way to get into position, 1s on opposite sides) - Lord Macdonald's Reel (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS VI 9)
(to use STB with corners followed by 6-bar reel/3 on sidelines in QUICK time; more usual direction to get into position) - The Ambassadors' Reel (R32, 3/4L, Mayr: Vienna Book)
(to review from Social evening on 15.3.14: to learn the ‘flow’ of the final two figures: TR, pass RS, TR, pass RS, into a Circle)
- Frog in the Middle (J32, 3/4L, MMM)
- advanced dance:
- The Wee Cooper O' Fife (J40, 2/4L, Foss: Song Tunes)
(each figure has an additional ‘twist’ to the end, thus adding 2 more bars to the each figure)
- The Wee Cooper O' Fife (J40, 2/4L, Foss: Song Tunes)
- notes:
- There were 14 people, making one 3-cpl and one 4-cpl set, for the advanced dance, we had one 4-cpl set
- As we are nearing the end of the year, the dances are becoming more complicated in order to teach as many figures to the beginners as possible. I am also preparing the dances for the Whitsun Weekend so that some of the beginners may be able to join in the social dance evenings.
- teaching: foot positions for
- skip change, slip step: with a HOP as the upbeat for the actual dance step
- setting: with a mention of the DOWN movement ON the beat to start the pas de basque to better enable them to change from skip change to setting and back again
- skip change moving easily to slip step: skip change to LEFT in a circle, changing feet as easily as possible into slip step (as in St. Andrew’s Fair) then slip step to RIGHT, changing to skip change
- strathspey traveling and setting
- teaching (new figures):
- Double Triangles
- teaching (reviewed figures):
- Set, Turn Both Hands, 6-bar LS reel of 3
- Hands: how to help move around in a Turn using Both Hands
2014-03-12 (Ann/Heiko)
first half
- dances:
- Border Meeting (J32, 2RR, Goldring: Goldring Graded 1)
(ladies’ chain) - The Minister on the Loch (S32, 3/3L, Goldring: Magazine)
(diamond poussette/ double fig. 8) - Flowers of Edinburgh (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS I 6)
(poussette) - Tribute to the Borders (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS Leaflets 31)
(half reels of 3; setting with a partner to four corners; Allemande for 3 cpl)
- Border Meeting (J32, 2RR, Goldring: Goldring Graded 1)
- notes:
- There were 19 people, making two 4-cpl sets, and later, one 3-cpl and one 4-cpl.
- teaching (steps):
- skip change: using long steps and short steps; advance and retire
- setting in quick time: setting: foot positions then setting and skip change, alternating
- strathspey: traveling and setting
- teaching (figures):
- casting off: turn outwards from the set
- ladies’ chain
- diamond poussette in strathspey time
- poussette in quick time
- double figure of 8, around standing 2s
- reels of 3 to review HALF reels of 3
advanced half
- dances:
- Sugar Candie (S32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXVI 9)
(for this dance the dancers of the first half were invited to join) - The Irish Rover (R32, 3/4L, Cosh: 22 SCD)
- Miss Johnstone of Ardrossan (R32, 5/5L, RSCDS 30 popular, Vol 2 42)
- Sugar Candie (S32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXVI 9)
- notes:
- about 4-6 couples were present in the advanced half
2014-03-05 (Ann)
- dances:
- Tribute to the Borders (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS Leaflets 31)
(to learn RS HALF reels of 3; to learn the 3-cpl allemande; setting and moving to face different positions with partner) - Largo Law (S32, 3/4L, MMM)
(to consolidate reels of 4; circle) - The Reel of the 51st Division (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS XIII 10)
(to learn balance in line - different from balance with partner as in St. Andrew’s Fair)
- Tribute to the Borders (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS Leaflets 31)
- advanced dance:
- The Montgomeries' Rant (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS X 1)
(to compare 8-bar reels across the dance, 6-bar reels on the side, cross to own side; setting to different positions as a pair - positions different from Tribute to the Borders)
- The Montgomeries' Rant (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS X 1)
- teaching:
- Steps: reviewed skip change, slip step, setting step in quick time; strathspey traveling; reminded them of what Bexi had done: MOVE!
- Hands: promenade hold for moving as a unit in pairs
- teaching (new figures):
- Half reel of 3
- 3 couple allemande
- Setting as a unit of 2 and moving to face different positions
- Balance in line
- Set and Turn corners
- teaching (reviewed figures):
- reviewed: RS reels of 3;
- reels of 4 in strathspey time; reinforced what Felix had done: RS on ends; LS in the middle
- circle in strathspey time: hands ready
2014-02-26 (Felix)
first half
- dances:
- Sugar Candie (S32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXVI 9)
- The Haggis Thrash (R32, 2/4L, Drewry: Greenburn 2)
- notes:
- about 2 full sets in the beginners’ half
- teaching:
- Double Fig of 8
- Reel of four across, starting from the center
- Strathspey Traveling Step (Listen to the music and continue your step, even when the brain is occupied elsewhere: Travel free around the room for 4 bars, find somebody for (a) advance and retire (b) turn right © turn left and (d) turn both hands.)
advanced half
- dances:
- The Royal Patron (R32, 3/4L, Whitley: QE Diamond Jubilee)
- Gang the Same Gate (S32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXXVI 4)
- notes:
- about 5 couples were present in the advanced half
2014-02-22 (Saturday preparation class, Bexi)
- dances:
- Nothing in Common (S32, 2/3L, Mayr: Merse)
- Broadford Bay (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS Leaflets 2)
- Hooper's Jig (J32, 3/4L, MMM)
- The Celebration Strathspey (S32, 3/4L, RSCDS XLIII 2)
- Todlen Hame (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS XVI 6)
- The Jubilee Jig (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS Leaflets 11)
- notes:
- there were about 14 dancers present: i.e. we did 7couple setup several times
- teaching:
- there was a special emphasis on the 2couple reels across in Todlen Hame and Nothing in Common.
- furthermore, the 7couple setup was lined out, walked and used for several dances above.
2014-02-19 (Bexi)
- dances:
- The Duchess of Buccleuch's Favourite (R32, 3/4L, Border)
- Lady Maxwell's Reel (M32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXVI 8)
(Note: I tried to use the music named Lady Maxwells Reel and R16/S16, but the strathspey went on after 16 bars. We need to verify that.) - Captain White (J32, 2/4L, MMM)
- The Compliment (S32, 2/4L, Goldring: 22 Goldring Dances)
- The Goat Fell Gallop (J32, 4/4L, Goldring: Goldring Graded 2)
- notes:
- 16 people present: two 4couple sets
- teaching:
- Skip change emphasis on MOVE, advance & retire
- Turn corners and partner
- Pas de Basque
- Poussette
- Diamond Poussette
- Medley
- RA/LA in 3 bars each then cast off or lead up to change places
- Reels of 3 (right shoulder)
2014-02-12 (Ann/Heiko)
first half
- dances:
- Captain Macdonald's Fancy (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS VII 9)
- The Minister on the Loch (S32, 3/3L, Goldring: Magazine)
- notes:
- There were three 3couple sets (18 people) or one 4couple and a 5couple in the beginners class
- review (Steps):
- Foot positions: good turn out, closing in 3rd, straight leg when leading for the skip change; HOP in anticipation of the first beat in both skip change and slip step; mentioned rising onto toes in preparation for the skip change in a set as well as in the warm-up circle
- skip change,
- setting, preparation for the ‘extension’ as an upbeat for the DOWN of the setting step; mentioned this as preparation for setting
- going from skip change to setting: Hop for skip change; extension for setting; etc.
- slip step: hop and CLOSING in 1st each time.
- review (Strathspey):
- traveling step: straight leg to lead but with DOWN as preparation for the step when one rises up on the first beat, slight lift to bring foot through; knee to the side on the pull-through rather than in front.
- setting step: same but sideways: DOWN to begin; closing low with foot behind the calf of the leg. (Question: for men, it seems to me that they can close a little higher up the calf than the ladies but I did not mention it this time. I also said a slight lift/hop, not as big as starting on the skip change)
- changing from traveling to setting
- repeating feet: RF, RF; LF, LF, as needed after the diamond poussette: practised in a circle
- teaching (new):
- RA LA with 3 bars to each followed by cast off to 2nd place
- Double figure of 8: 1s casting while 3s cross up and cast: around the standing 2s
- TR 1 1/2; TL 1 1/2: as part of progression on the sidelines
- teaching (reviewed):
- Corner/Partner/corner/partner: taught again as there were some people who did not come last week; danced in a new dance; hands and arms: tension to help each other around.
- all-round poussette/diamond poussette: practised again as some people were not there last week: ‘outside feet’ to begin the figure from the sidelines; arms at shoulder height and slightly out in a diamond shape, and with a tension to guide/help each other around; slight pull with the RH of each to make sure they do the 1/4 turn in the right direction; mentioned briefly the need to change feet for starting with the RF when continuing into another figure
- RA LA with 4 beats to each
advanced half
- dances:
- Forbes Rant (J32, 3/4L, Dix: Reel Friends 1)
- Culla Bay (S32, 4S, RSCDS XLI 2)
- The Wild Geese (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXIV 3)
- Catch the Wind (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS XLV 5)
- notes:
- for the last dance, the recording by the Music Makars (CD: Catch the Wind) should be avoided.
- the first two dances were to remember Ann Dix who died Nov 1st, 2013, one day before being awarded the Scroll of Honor at the AGM of the RSCDS.
- the last three dances are from the preliminary Whidsun Weekend
- we had two 3couple sets in the beginning, we repeated Culla Bay such that all 11 dancers left could dances, and had a 4couple set for the last two dances
2014-02-05 (Ann)
- dances:
- Light and Airy (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS IV 5)
(for Corner/Partner figure) - The Walled Garden (S32, 2/4L, Goldring: Goldring Graded 1)
(for All-round Poussette) - The Peat Inn (R32, 4/4L, Goldring: Goldring Graded 1)
(taught as a Strathspey: for figures: Half Petronella and Half RL - following a suggestion by Robert Finan that this dance could be used as a Medley: we did it as a reel in Nov. 2013) - St Andrew's Fair (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS 5/1982 2)
(review and quickly done)
- Light and Airy (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS IV 5)
- advanced dance:
- The Bees of Maggieknockater (J32, 4/4L, RSCDS 30 popular, Vol 2 4)
(danced twice so that more people could experience this one)
- The Bees of Maggieknockater (J32, 4/4L, RSCDS 30 popular, Vol 2 4)
- notes:
- 20 people present: two 3couple sets; one 4couple set
- teaching (new):
- Corner/Partner/Corner/Partner in Jig time
- Strathspey: traveling step with feet change: e.g. lead with RF, RF, LF, LF, RF, RF, LF, LF
- All-round Poussette: correct feet to begin this figure as well as the geography of the figure; Half Petronella turn; Half RL (all in S time)
- Dance etiquette: standing in 1st position when not dancing; eye contact during petronella turns; covering during setting in petronella turns as well as TR at end of The Peat Inn
- teaching (reviewed):
- Steps and foot positions for: traveling steps in J,R and S.
- Setting steps with foot positions for: quick time and S.
- TR and TL: four counts per hand with a repeat: TR TL TR TL
- Figures: Figure 8, Allemande; Petronella, RL
2014-01-29
- Burns’ Dance
2014-01-22 (Ann/Felix)
first half
- dances:
- Border Meeting (J32, 2RR, Goldring: Goldring Graded 1)
- Delvine Side (S32, 3/4L, RSCDS II 9)
- A Galloway Tale (R32, 4/4L, Keppie: Burns Night / Annapolis)
(New dance for Burns Night)
- notes:
- 24 people present: three 4cpl sets.
- teaching:
- As some had not been there the week before, I ended up re-teaching the Ladies Chain and the Strathspey setting step for the dances above
advanced half
- dances:
- Mist o'er the Loch (S32, 3/4L, Short: QE Diamond Jubilee)
- The Reel of the Royal Scots (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS Leaflets 27)
- The Chequered Court (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS XLII 3)
- Follow Me Home (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXXVIII 3)
2014-01-15 (Ann)
- dances:
- Border Meeting (J32, 2RR, Goldring: Goldring Graded 1)
(Ladies’ Chain, tune used: James Gray set of jigs 8x32: TOO LONG for a round the room!! Need another one 6 x 32!) - Delvine Side (S32, 3/4L, RSCDS II 9)
(has turn corners with both hands, pass RS) - St Andrew's Fair (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS 5/1982 2)
- Scotland (J32, 2/4L, RSCDS XXXI 6)
(repeat from before Xmas)
- Border Meeting (J32, 2RR, Goldring: Goldring Graded 1)
- advanced dance:
- The Peat Inn (R32, 4/4L, Goldring: Goldring Graded 1)
(tune used: The Mairrit Man’s Favourite)
- The Peat Inn (R32, 4/4L, Goldring: Goldring Graded 1)
- teaching (new):
- strathspey setting step
- strathspey setting step change to traveling step
- Turn both hands for Strathspey turn
- Balance in line: in St. Andrew’s Fair
- Ladies’ Chain
- teaching (reviewed):
- Foot positions
- skip change,
- slip step,
- setting step
- changing from skip change to slip step to the left; slip step to R and change to skip change (for St. Andrew’s Fair)
- changing from setting to skip change and back
- strathspey traveling step
- RL
- corners
- Back to back (DoSiDo)
2014-01-08 (Ann/Heiko)
first half
- dances:
- The Dashing White Sergeant (R32, ?RR, RSCDS III 2)
- Mrs MacLeod (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS VI 11)
- Mrs Stewart Sinton's Reel (J32, 2/4L, RSCDS Graded 12)
- teaching (new):
-
Corners: how to find their first and second corners in a set Set and Turn Corners followed by LS Reel of three: 6-bar with Cross R to own sides
-
ladies’ chain
-
- teaching (reviewed):
- Steps: skip change, slip step, setting step
- Allemande,
- Down the middle and up,
- Set and Turn followed by Reels of 3: from Dashing White Sergeant
- RA,LA: HANDS!
advanced half
- dances:
- Mist o'er the Loch (S32, 3/4L, Short: QE Diamond Jubilee)
- Da Rain Dancin' (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS 30 popular, Vol 2 30)
- The Reel of the Royal Scots (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS Leaflets 27)
- notes:
- the first dance was done in a 7-couple set
- the first dance was asked for by several dancers
2013-12-18
Christmas Party
2013-12-11 (Ann/Felix?)
first half
- dances:
- Lady Catherine Bruce's Reel (J32, 2/4L, RSCDS Graded 7)
- The Birks of Invermay (S32, 3/4L, RSCDS XVI 2)
- Happy Christmas (J32, 3/4L, Jones: Liverpool 40th)
- teaching (new):
- Grand Chain: in a 3-cpl dance
- Strathspey traveling step
- Strathspey circle
- notes:
- repetition for christmas party
advanced half
- dances:
- The Chequered Court (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS XLII 3)
- John of Bon Accord (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXXIII 5)
- The Gentleman (S32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXXV 5)
- notes:
- repetition for christmas party
2013-12-04 (Tess)
first half
- dances:
- Joe MacDiarmid's Jig (J32, 4/4L, RSCDS 5/1982 3)
- The Belfast Hornpipe (R32, 3/3L, Clindinning: )
(Studied: unusual turning positions) - The Double Sixsome (R64, 6/6L, Brandon: )
(Studied: 3-couple allemande)
- teaching (new):
- Having 6 couples and a dance with easy basic figures I decided to go for it! Completed with no problems, thanks to good basic training.
Anybody wishing for a copy please contact me.
Eventual additions for a good demo. dance: highland steps at end.
- Having 6 couples and a dance with easy basic figures I decided to go for it! Completed with no problems, thanks to good basic training.
advanced half
- dances:
- Village Reel (S32, 2/4L, RSCDS XX 4)
(for Strathpey poussette - see below) - Prince Charles of Edinburgh (R160, 4S, RSCDS XXXIX 9)
(Completed: Fig. 1. - to be continued.
This is a typical quadrille form; there are no difficult figures but it is fast and requires unusual changes of direction.)
- Village Reel (S32, 2/4L, RSCDS XX 4)
- notes:
- As requested by some advanced dancers, we went through in detail the basic geography of the Strathspey poussette. 3-4 beginner dancers participated (there was no attempt to teach the Strathspey step) but they managed very well. (I’ll be checking the footwork for the Strathpey poussette later.)
2013-11-27 (Ann)
- dances:
- The Kingston Jig (J32, 4/4L, Goldring: Goldring Graded 1)
(for warm-up) - Collie Law (J32, 2/4L, Goldring: Goldring Graded 1)
(for Allemande; fig. 8; RALA) - Petronella (R32, 2/4L, RSCDS I 1)
(for the figure and Poussette) - Bonnie Geordie's Wig (R32, 2/4L, MMM)
(for review of S2 RA; S2 LA; progression; RL)
- The Kingston Jig (J32, 4/4L, Goldring: Goldring Graded 1)
- advanced dance:
- John of Bon Accord (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXXIII 5)
(review of the four half-reels of 3)
- John of Bon Accord (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXXIII 5)
- teaching (new):
- Petronella: demonstrated and then did Petronella turn slowly in the whole group; then in the dance: geography and then the step
- teaching (reviewed):
- foot positions
- Slip step
- Skip change: long steps, short steps, Adv./ret.
- Setting step: for on the spot; for moving as in Poussette;
- Allemande
- RA+LA
- Fig of 8
- RL
- Poussette
2013-11-20 (Ann/Felix)
first half
- dances:
- Gay Gordons (X16, 1RR, Collins SCD)
- St Bernard's Waltz (W16, 1RR, Smith: YSDA 1)
- Highland Schottische (S8, 1RR, Guide (ex-Collins))
- Canadian Barn Dance (X16, 1RR, Durrands: Guide (ex-Collins))
- The Eightsome Reel (R464, 4S, RSCDS II 12)
advanced half
- dances:
- C'Est L'Amour (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXXIV 1)
- Barbara's Strathspey (S32, 3/4L, RSCDS XLVI 4)
- Anniversary Reel (R32, 4/4L, RSCDS XXXVI 7)
- The Chequered Court (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS XLII 3)
2013-11-13 (Ann)
- dances:
- The Dashing White Sergeant (R32, ?RR, RSCDS III 2)
(to review ST LF reels of 3; Adv/Retire) - Clydeside Lassies (R32, 2/4L, MMM)
(to incorporate the Poussette into a dance; to review RL) - The Eightsome Reel (R464, 4S, RSCDS II 12)
(to learn about positions in a square set; to learn from the Ceilidh; also used the same sequence as Dashing W.S: ST LS reels; new: Grand Chain) - Flowers of Edinburgh (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS I 6)
(Extra: a request for Budapest course: beginners could also dance this one: ALMOST a 2 cpl set; also with Poussette)
- The Dashing White Sergeant (R32, ?RR, RSCDS III 2)
- advanced dance:
- The Black Mountain Reel (R32, 5/5L, RSCDS 30 popular, Vol 2 26)
- teaching (new):
- Grand Chain
- Square Set
- teaching (reviewed):
- foot positions
- slip step
- skip change: Adv./Retire
- Setting
- Setting and turning: pas de basque step
- Poussette
- RL
2013-11-06 (Ann/Heiko)
first half
- dances:
- Jane's Jig (J32, 2/4L, Hoffmann: Let's All Dance Too)
(reviewed from Felix’s lesson on first night: to review Adv/Retire; TR 1 1/2; Circle) - Strip the Willow (j40, 4/4L, RSCDS I 7)
(for the VIS Ceilidh: learned the geography, then walked it for two couples, then danced with music for all. Used running steps. Focused on: LH for other people, RH for partner; partner keeping the step going while waiting for the other person to turn.)
- Jane's Jig (J32, 2/4L, Hoffmann: Let's All Dance Too)
- teaching (reviewed):
- Steps and figures reviewed: Since there were some who came back after a few weeks’ absence, and two newcomers, I went over some basic things again, which helps to keep them in mind, anyway!
- foot positions: for slip step, skip change, setting, standing in a set
- Steps: slip step (CIRCLE), skip change: Forward and Backward: Advance/Retire; setting on the spot
- Figures: TR once round; TR 1 1/2 times; RL
- teaching (new):
- Setting: forward and backward: foot positions: with moving on the extension, beating in 3rd IN FRONT, whether going forward or backward.
- POUSSETTE: using the setting step for moving; we learned the geography of the progression; we did it ‘walking’, ‘dancing’ without music; dancing with the music: once through from each new position in 2-cpl sets: NOT YET incorporated into a dance.
- Running step: for Strip the Willow
advanced half
- dances:
- John of Bon Accord (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXXIII 5)
(Figures: half reels of three across, repeated 4 times, progressing down the set.) - Seven to Seven (S32, 3/3L, Turi: Reel Goulash)
(Figures: Cog wheel, Source: The book is online at http://www.bstk.hu/book/)
- John of Bon Accord (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXXIII 5)
- notes:
- Cog wheel is: 1-2: top 2 cpls half RA, while bottom cpl XL; 3-4: top cpl XR, while bottom 2 cpls half LA; 5-6: top 2 cpls half RA, while bottom cpl XL; 7-8: top cpl XR, while bottom 2 cpls half LA.
- It might be good to repeat the John-of-Bon-Accord reels in the context of phrasing.
- A third planned dance was skipped for the repetition of Seven-to-seven.
2013-10-30 (Ann/Ann)
- dances:
- The Dhoon (J32, 4/4L, RSCDS Children 1)
(to review: slip step followed by skip change, TR, TL, casting, circle - review from Felix’s first evening) - Great Expectations (R/J32, 2/4L, Hunt: Let's All Dnc 1)
(to incorporate adv/retire, XR cast, half figure 8, circle - review from Felix’s first evening) - The Dashing White Sergeant (R32, ?RR, RSCDS III 2)
(to teach STB followed by reels of 3, also for the Ceilidh) - Scotland (J32, 2/4L, RSCDS XXXI 6)
(to teach Back to back (using Adv./Retire steps), SXL (on the sides)) - Highland Schottische (S8, 1RR, Guide (ex-Collins))
(to review steps/dance from last week: a request by some of the beginners; for the Ceilidh)
- The Dhoon (J32, 4/4L, RSCDS Children 1)
- advanced dance:
- West's Hornpipe (R32, 4/4L, RSCDS 5/1965 3)
(for advanced dancers: reels on opposite sides/own sides: danced twice: before the break; again towards the end of the evening)
- West's Hornpipe (R32, 4/4L, RSCDS 5/1965 3)
- teaching (new):
- skip change: Advance/Retire
- setting steps: set with Turn Both hands afterwards
- Reels of 3: LS
- teaching (reviewed):
- positions, slip step, skip change, pas de basque, circle, TR TL, XR, half figure of 8
- notes:
- No. of sets: one 4-cpl; two 3-cpl = 20 dancers
2013-10-23 (Ann/Tess)
first half
- dances:
- Lamb Skinnet (J32, 3/4L, RSCDS XIV 12)
- Highland Schottische (S8, 1RR, Guide (ex-Collins))
(for VIS Ceilidh)
- advanced dance:
- The Dance Illustrator (S32, 4/4L, Porter: MS)
(for Rechberg)
- The Dance Illustrator (S32, 4/4L, Porter: MS)
- teaching (reviewed):
- skip change: foot positions, start with a HOP
- pas de basque: foot positions, start with ‘DOWN’, keep three-beats then extend foot
- Practice changing between setting and skip change
- Casting
- RL
- teaching (new):
- Half figure of 8
- Set and Cast
- Lead up, Set and Cast
- Highland Schottische steps
- notes:
- Sets: four 3-cpl sets for teaching; three 4-cpl sets for dancing (24 people) for first half
advanced half
- dances:
- Jeannie o' the Witchin' E'e (J40, 2/4L, MacNab)
(A “flirting” dance with emphasis on the woman’s leading role.
Figures: 1st. couple figure of 8; 2 couple reel across the dance.) - The Gentleman (S32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXXV 5)
(Special attention to correct hands.
Figures: 1/2 Reel of 4 across; Strathspey poussette.) - Julian's Jig (J32, 3/4L, Blake: Allanton)
(A fast, easy dance.) - The Dance Illustrator (S32, 4/4L, Porter: MS)
(repeated by Ann)
- Jeannie o' the Witchin' E'e (J40, 2/4L, MacNab)
- notes:
- Some figures e.g. Strathspey poussette; Rondel, should be revisited.
2013-10-16 (Ann/Ann)
- dances:
- Davy's Locker (R24, 2/4L, RSCDS Graded 4)
(to learn the PROM and review RA LA / down, up, cast) - Bonnie Geordie's Wig (R32, 2/4L, MMM)
(to learn: Setting 2x, skip change / lead down, cross, cast up, cross, cast down / review: RL) - Lady Catherine Bruce's Reel (J32, 2/4L, RSCDS Graded 7)
(to learn: Allemande; to review: figure of 8) - Britannia Two Step (X16, 3pRR, Guide (ex-Collins))
(to review and repeat with progression: middle person going to next group of 3) - Canadian Barn Dance (X16, 1RR, Durrands: Guide (ex-Collins))
(to learn the sequence for the VIS Ceilidh)
- Davy's Locker (R24, 2/4L, RSCDS Graded 4)
- advanced dance:
- The Deil amang the Tailors (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS XIV 7)
(to show the Allemande and similar figures from dances above: setting, half RA/half LA)
- The Deil amang the Tailors (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS XIV 7)
- teaching (new):
- PROMENADE
- ALLEMANDE
- pas de basque steps: foot position: 4th (extension), 3rd, to close in front
- pas de basque going into skip change: to use extension for leading into skip change
- teaching (reviewed):
- foot positions: 1st, 2nd, 3rd
- HOP for skip change and slip step
- lead down, back up and cast
- RA LA
- figure of 8
- RL
- COUNTING
2013-10-09 (Ann/Felix)
first half
- dances:
- Galloway House (R32, 2/4L, RSCDS Graded 5)
(to review RL, new progressive figure: TR cast TL) - Lady Catherine Bruce's Reel (J32, 2/4L, RSCDS Graded 7)
(to review lead down and up, circle; NEW: TR across the set, TL 1 1/2 times on sidelines (progression); Fig. of 8) - Britannia Two Step (X16, 3pRR, Guide (ex-Collins))
(for fun; to help with skip change (HOP), introduce setting step with low profile)
- Galloway House (R32, 2/4L, RSCDS Graded 5)
- teaching (reviewed):
- Foot positions
- HOP for skip change and slip steap
- RL
- cast off/back
- teaching (new):
- Figure of 8
- TR cast TL
- TR across the dance, TL 1 1/2 on sidelines
advanced half
- dances:
- The Sailor (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS XXIV 4)
- John Derek Evans (S32, 3/4L, Wallace: Redwood)
- Triskelion (M192, 3T, Brockbank: Dunedin 6)
- teaching (reviewed):
- Schiehallion Reels for 3 couples
- notes:
- dance 3 was liked pretty much, and suggested to be considered for Whitsun
2013-10-02 (Ann/Ann)
- dances:
- Cumberland Reel (J32, 4/4L, RSCDS I 11)
(counting the 6 bars to bottom of the set before leading up for 6) - The Honeymoon (R32, 3/4L, RSCDS Graded 8)
(New progressive figure: XR cast, XL cast, lead up to 2nd place) - The Highland Fair (J32, 2/4L, RSCDS Graded 6)
(RL new figure) - Welcome to the Dance (J32, 2RR, Vandegrift: Let's All Dnc 1)
(RR in 2-cpl sets, lengthwise in the room as had an odd number of couples) - The Birks of Invermay (S32, 3/4L, RSCDS XVI 2) (intermediate/advanced dance)
- Cumberland Reel (J32, 4/4L, RSCDS I 11)
- teaching (new):
- RL: reviewed Highland Fair with RL instead of RA LA
- Cross R and cast down, cross L and cast down, lead up to 2nd place (new progressive figure)
- teaching (reviewed):
- foot positions for standing, skip change, slip step, moving up and down
- counting the beats in a phrase for a figure
- HOP for starting both skip change and slip step
- circle
- RA LA
- TR TL
- lead down the middle, lead up and cast off
- lead down/up: 1s leading down, 2s leading up to top (progression)
- progression in a set
2013-09-25 (Ann/Heiko)
first half
- dances:
- Leap Year (J24, 2/4L, RSCDS Graded 1)
- The Highland Fair (J32, 2/4L, RSCDS Graded 6)
- The Dunedin Festival Dance (R32, 3T, Haynes: Dunedin 4)
- teaching:
- Foot positions: 1st to 3rd for skip change; 1st to 2nd for slip step
- Bow and curtsey
- Step up and down
- progression within a 2-cpl dance
- HOP for both slip step and skip change
- HANDS for circle, RA LA, TR TL
- casting off and back
- lead down, up and cast (Progression)
- lead down: 1s with 2s following, 2s leading back up to top (Progression)
advanced half
- dances:
- Knotted (R32, 2/4L, Tress: Tanzen & Tafeln)
- Round and Roundabout (S32, 3/3L, RSCDS XLIX 7)
- The Pensioner's Reel (R32, 3/4L, Rayner: Skye 2)
- notes:
- dance 1 was felt a bit hurried and exhausting since it has 16 bars of PdB
2013-09-18 (first class, Felix)
- dances:
- The Bramble Circle (R/J32, 1C, Vandegrift: Let's All Dnc 1)
- Welcome to the Dance (J32, 2RR, Vandegrift: Let's All Dnc 1)
- Virginia Reel (R40, 4/4L, Guide (ex-Collins))
- The Dhoon (J32, 4/4L, RSCDS Children 1)
- Jane's Jig (J32, 2/4L, Hoffmann: Let's All Dance Too)
- Great Expectations (R/J32, 2/4L, Hunt: Let's All Dnc 1)
- January Welcome (J32, 2/4L, Torfason: Let's All Dance Too)
- Virginia Reel (R40, 4/4L, Guide (ex-Collins))
- advanced dance:
- MacDonald of the Isles (S32, 3/3L, RSCDS 30 popular, Vol 2 58)
- teaching:
- We used two patterns of progession for the longwise sets: straight to the bottom and two couples sets. Both worked with only a little confusion.
- Repetition: In all the dances only one couple walked it and we went straight into the dance after a recap. So we did not need endless repitions.
- technique: Slip step and Skip Change; do not push or drag when trying to help; firm arms