American Square Dances of The West
& Southwest - online instruction book

With Calls, instructions, diagrams, steps & sheet music

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78
American Square Dances
on time. The descriptions of the movements and figures are given in the words to be used by the caller in describing the figures to the dancers. By "walking" the dancers through the figures first one can make certain that all understand what is expected of them and then the dance can be called with the music played at the proper tempo of 128 to 136 beats per minute. Take nothing for granted in calling a Square Dance. Every figure and call has many variations. Be certain before calling any figure that all on the floor know the pattern of the dance and the meaning of the calls and phrases used. Often, especially with experienced dancers, only a verbal explanation is required for the understanding of the movements and routine of the dance. Regardless of the previous experience of the dancers, start with the first dance and follow the progression as given here. Only in this way can the caller be sure that all are "on the same foot" and that all are speaking the same language and understand the calls and figures. The caller must lead his dancers but never run ahead of them. The simplest movement is complex to the be­ginner. It is perfectly natural that untrained and inexperienced dancers do not know their right hand from their left. Be patient and understanding and—lead!