Learn Country Dances

History of Country Dances

Although country dancing is an American tradition, its origin spans numerous cultures and generations. From the cloggers in Scotland to the peasants in Poland, what began with bagpipes and evening stars soon became a social gathering with square sets and two steps. It wasn’t long before Western civilization adopted the craze and country dance made its way into our country, and into our hearts forever.

If you’ve ever stepped foot into a Country Western night club, you’ve seen the raucous crowds having fun in social dance. Country dances are an American tradition that include many different techniques and moves adapted from different folk dances throughout the world. Country dances are quick, upbeat, and have gals spinning their skirts while men stay busy tapping their boots. Before you sit out on the next dance, learn country dances and have some fun!

Country dances originated in Europe, Italy, Scotland and Hungary. Modern country dance is technically a blend of folk dance crossed with ballroom dancing. Country dances are typically danced to country western or bluegrass music. There are, however, many variations of country dances, and you can expect that each dance step will favor a certain tempo.

Country Dance Steps

• The Polka-If you want to let loose and have a good time, consider the hop-step-close-step technique of polka dancing. A true bohemian classic, the polka dance is fast and fun and completely free spirited. First introduced in Czechoslovakia in 1835, the Polka dance is a famous competitive dance style embraced by the country western community.

• Two Step- The two step is another country western dance closely related to the polka. You may have heard the coined phrase ‘Texas Two Step.’ Two step is performed by taking two steps in one direction and then closing with the opposite foot and one step. The two step is a quick and high energy dance with several variations. If you learn country dances, make sure you’re comfortable with this step, as it is quite possibly the most popular country dance move.

• Country Waltz- Country dancing has its fair share of romantic interludes. The country waltz is not as formal as ballroom dancing, so feel free to relax your frame and posture. There’s no need to exaggerate your arms ballroom-style either, the country waltz is often danced in the promenade position donning a pair of boots instead of heels.

• Square Set- Dosado your partner! Square set folk dance originated in New England. Early settlers and immigrant groups gathered together after a long week of building their homes and community to dance. The square set was a blend of different folk dances from different countries. A chosen figure caller would prompt the steps in the group and dancers would follow the lead. This dance is quite fun and usually great for large groups.

• Circle Dancing- Circle dancing is actually the oldest known form of dance. Circle dancing is performed without a partner. Holding hands with the person to the left and the right of you, you will go forward and back and round and round as a group. Circle dancing is often relaxing and builds a sense of community with your dance group.

Where to Country Dance

Familiarizing yourself with basic country dance steps will keep you out on the dance floor at weddings and gatherings should the occasion call for a little polka.

How to Learn Country Dances

You may learn country dances many different ways.

• Check local dance studios for instructors who teach this folk style dancing.
• Contact your local community college and see what dance courses they have available each semester.
• Find a western night club or dance hall that offers country dancing. Attend a fun evening of hands-on learning!
• Order DVDs and CDS for private, in-home basic instruction.

Internet Country Dance Resources

• ieFit
• Dance Lovers
• Shawn Trautman
• Central Home
• Your Dance Videos
• Christy Lane
• Club Country Dance