How to Dance the Eleven Most Popular Scottish Reels: A Comprehensive Guide for Absolute Beginners

Prepare yourself for an exhilarating journey into the world of Scottish reels, a captivating dance form brimming with tradition, energy, and joy. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or taking your first tentative steps, this comprehensive guide will provide you with everything you need to strut your stuff on the dance floor with confidence. We'll break down eleven of the most popular Scottish reels into easy-to-follow instructions, complete with diagrams, videos, and expert advice. So, put on your dancing shoes, gather your friends, and get ready to experience the infectious rhythm and vibrant spirit of Scottish reels!

Essential Footwork Techniques

Before delving into the reels themselves, let's familiarize ourselves with some fundamental footwork techniques that will serve as the building blocks for our dance. Master these steps, and you'll be gliding across the floor with effortless grace:

Scottish Reeling: How to dance and enjoy the eleven popular Scottish Reels

by David Yarwood

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2701 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	49 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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• Highland Fling Step: This lively step involves a quick hop on one foot, followed by a step forward with the other foot.
• Scotch Snap: A distinctive syncopated step, where you step forward with one foot, then quickly step back with the same foot before stepping forward again.
• Halamar: A graceful gliding step, where you slide one foot forward while simultaneously lifting the other foot off the ground.

A Reel-y Good Time: The Eleven Popular Scottish Reels

Now, let's dive right into the heart of our dance journey – the eleven most popular Scottish reels that are guaranteed to get your feet tapping and spirits soaring:

1. The Dashing White Sergeant

Difficulty: BeginnerWatch the Reel

An ideal reel for beginners, "The Dashing White Sergeant" is a lively and spirited tune that will have you moving in no time. The dance consists of two parts, each repeated twice.

2. The De'il Among the Tailors

Difficulty: Beginner-IntermediateWatch the Reel

This reel is a playful and energetic dance, telling the tale of a mischievous imp wreaking havoc in a tailor's shop. The dance is characterized by quick footwork and a lively tempo.

3. Tullochgorum

Difficulty: IntermediateWatch the Reel

Named after a famous Scottish folk song, "Tullochgorum" is a flowing and elegant reel with a beautiful melody. The dance features intricate footwork and graceful movements.

4. Miss McLeod's Reel

Difficulty: IntermediateWatch the Reel

This reel is a spirited and lively dance, dedicated to a charming young lady named Miss McLeod. The dance is characterized by quick footwork and a catchy melody.

5. The Reel of Tulloch

Difficulty: IntermediateWatch the Reel

Named after a beautiful glen in Perthshire, Scotland, "The Reel of Tulloch" is a flowing and graceful reel with a haunting melody. The dance features elegant footwork and intricate patterns.

6. The Falls of Shin

Difficulty: Intermediate-AdvancedWatch the Reel

This reel is an energetic and challenging dance, inspired by the picturesque Falls of Shin in Sutherland, Scotland. The dance features complex footwork and a fast tempo.

7. The Eightsome Reel

Difficulty: AdvancedWatch the Reel

As the name suggests, "The Eightsome Reel" is a complex and challenging reel that is typically performed by eight dancers. The dance features intricate footwork and rapid changes in formation.

8. Lord MacDonald's Reel

Difficulty: AdvancedWatch the Reel

Named after a famous Scottish clan chief, "Lord MacDonald's

Scottish Reeling: How to dance and enjoy the eleven popular Scottish Reels

by David Yarwood

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2701 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	49 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE