What is Scottish Country Dancing?

If you are wondering why you might want to dance “Scottish”, well, consider -

Firstly, we’re not talking about Highland dancing - that highly energetic, technical, but solo style of dancing - no, we’re talking about the warm, social, country style of dancing. Dancing in sets of six, eight, well almost any number really - 32 if the party’s wild enough. Dancing to some wonderfully lifting music - reels, jigs and strathspeys played on accordion, fiddle, keyboard and drums, etc. And dancing too, in steps and formations of every type, a great range of dances dating from the 18th century to the present day! Scottish Country Dancing has everything to exercise the body; the mind and the social graces.

Scottish Country Dancing is enjoyed by many thousands of people both in the UK and across the globe. There’s probably a set lining up, somewhere around the world, every minute of the day. You don’t need to be Scottish to join in nor do you have to be able to dance - all you need is to take a pleasure in dancing and in meeting and mixing with other people.

It is, without doubt, a most sociable form of dancing. Not just because you dance with seven or so other people, all at the same time, but with smiles and eye and hand contact being mandatory you cannot help but be friends with those around you. People can come as couples or as singles; you don't need to bring a partner - there will always be enough other folks around to be sure you dance all evening. Mixing is the name of the game. It's sometimes elegant; often very lively; but always, always, lots of fun.

While the main object of the pastime is social, much of the enjoyment still comes from you and your partner moving smoothly in rhythm with the music; seamlessly co-ordinating your movements with the other couples in the set. It is very much a team effort and the fun comes with the mental stimulation and the satisfaction of successfully remembering all the movements and always being in the right place at the right time!