Category Archives: Summer

Dances taught in the summer classes

Dances for July 8, 2026

July 4, 20263x32 Strathspeys, 8x32 Reels, 8x40 Jig, Summer, Summer 2026, UncategorizedOttawa Dance Scottish

Ottawa Summer Class

No Video

At Long Last
Ward Fleri, Salute to San Diego
40 bar flirtatious jig for 3 couples in a 4-couple set

1 – 4 1st and 2nd couples advance and retire

5 – 8 1st and 2nd couples turn partner by the right hand halfway and join hands to dance right hands across halfway, finishing on the sides of the set

9 – 16 1st couple advance and retire, then turn by the left hand one and a quarter times to face first corners

17 – 20 1st couple dance half diagonal reel of four with first corners, 1st couple pull back right shoulder on bar 20 to finish back to back facing partner’s second corners

21 – 24 1st couple and second corners repeat bars 17-20

25 – 28 1s couple and first corners repeat bars 17-20

29 – 32 1st couple and second corners repeat bars 17-20, except 1st couple approach each other on bar 32 to finish in the center of the set, facing down in allemande hold (woman is on her partner’s right side)

33 – 36 1st couple dance down the middle in allemande hold for three steps, and turn about on the fourth step, maintaining allemande hold (as in the Gay Gordon’s)

37 – 40 1st couple dance up for two steps and then cross into second place on their own sides, the man leading his partner across him as she curves into place

Repeat from new positions

Devisor’s Note: In bars 17-32, 1st couple should take every opportunity to flirt during the ‘snub’ turns, and maintain eye contact on bars 38-40

Suggested music: “Merrily Danced the Quaker’s Wife” Scottish Dance Masters Vol 1, by Ron Gonnella and Andrew Rankine

Devised by Ward Fleri

Dedicated to John Thoburn (a Quaker) and Tina Mello on the occasion of their wedding, May 30, 1993

No Video

Diamond of the Water
A 3 couple strathspey for a 3 couple set
Jayne Irwin, July 2024

1 – 4 All 3 couples turn with both hands once round and set.

5 – 8 All 3 couples dance in and take nearer hands, facing up.
1st couple casts off to 3rd place.
2nd couple dance up and cast of to original places.
3rd couple dance and cast into 1st place.
On bar 8 all three couples dance in to take promenade hold.

9 – 16 3rd, 2nd & 1st couples dance a 3 couple promenade, 3rd couple casts of to 2nd place and 2nd couple dance to the top on the last two bars.

17 – 18 2nd, 3rd & 1st couple turn once round with both hands
19 – 20 All advance for one step & retire one step
21 – 24 All dance back to back

25 – 32 All circle to the left and back

Repeat from new positions

Our canoe, gliding gently in the reflective water and watching the fish below swishing to and fro.

Video: My Mother’s Coming In

My Mother’s Coming In
RSCDS Book 15
32-bar reel for three couples in a four-couple longwise set

1 – 8 1st, 2nd and 3rd couples dance reels of three on own sides. 1st and 2nd men, 1st and 2nd women pass by the right to begin.

9 – 12 1st couple set and cast off one place. 2nd couple step up on bars 11-12.

13 – 16 1st couple dance a half figure of eight round 2nd couple.

17 – 20 2nd, 1st and 3rd couples advance and retire.

21 – 24 2nd and 3rd couples, giving both hands to partners, turn once round. At the same time, 1st couple, giving both hands, turn one and a half times to finish back to back in the middle of the set facing own sides.

25 – 32 2nd, 1st and 3rd couples dance double triangles.

Repeat, having passed a couple.

Dances for 1813, published by Button and Whitaker, 1813.
Original tune: Dalkeith House (James MacDonald from Gow)

RSCDS Manual
My Mother’s Coming In
Bars 21 – 24
It is acceptable for 1st couple to dance a half turn to finish back to back ready to dance double triangles. During bars 23‐24, 1st couple release the hand nearer the top of the set and turn back to back.

TAC Notes
My Mother’s Coming in
1 – 8 R shoulder reels.
21 – 24 1st cpl advance (bar 21), half turn (bars 22-23), then 1st man releases LH & aids partner to finish back to back (bar 24).

No Video

The Lucky Bucket
Lindsay Clarke, May 2025
32 bar reel for 3C in a 4C set

1 – 8 1st couple dance down the middle for 4 bars with nearer hands joined, on bars 5-6 1st woman dances under their raised arms and in front of her partner (as he dances below her) to switch places and face up, on bars 7-8 they dance up to 2nd place on opposite sides.(2nd couple step up on 3-4)

9 – 20 2nd, 1st & 3rd couples dance rights and lefts for three couples.

21 – 24 1st couple dance half a figure eight, 1st woman around 3rd couple, 1st man around 2nd couple to second place own side.

25 – 32 2nd, 1st & 3rd couples dance six hands round and back

Dances for June 24, 2026

June 21, 20263x32 Reels, 8x32 Jigs, 8x32 Strathspeys, Summer, Summer 2026Ottawa Dance Scottish

Ottawa Summer Class

No Video

Madawaska Strathspey
A 32 bar strathspey for 3 couples in a 4 couple set
Craig Williams, March 2024

1 – 8 1st couple dance a ½ figure of eight on their own sides. Begin by dancing in and down. Take nearer hands when they meet between the 3rd couple, dance up to the top and cast off to 2nd place on own sides, 2nd couple stepping up on bars 7 & 8

9 – 16 2nd, 1st & 3rd couples dance a 3 couple Espagnole.
9 – 10 2nd man & 3rd woman cross to opposite sides. 2nd & 1st women giving right hands, cross to opposite sides, 1st woman passing in front of 2nd woman. 1st & 3rd men giving right hands, cross to opposite sides, 1st man passing in front of 3rd man
11 – 12 Repeat bars 9-10 from new positions
13 – 14 Repeat bars 9-10 from new positions. The dancers should finish on opposite sides in order (3, 1, 2) across from their partners
15 – 16 All ½ turn partners with the right hand, finishing ready for allemande.

17 – 24 3rd, 1st & 2nd couples dance a allemande.

25 – 32 Circle 6 hands round & back.

No Video

Waterlily Ballet
A 32 bar reel for 3 couples in a 3 couple set
Jayne Irwin, May 2024

1 – 8 1st couple dance a figure of eight around the 2nd & 3rd couples on the sides. 1st couple begin by dancing out & down.

9 – 16 1st, 2nd & 3rd couples dance a mirror reel of three on the sides. Right shoulder on the women;s side, left shoulder on the men’s side. 1st couple dance out & down, 2nd couple in and up, 3rd couple out & up

17 – 20 1st man with 2nd man turn 1 ½ times with the left hand. 1st woman with 2nd woman turn 1 ½ times with the right hand

21 – 24 1st man with 3rd man turn once round with the right hand. 1st woman with 3rd woman turn once round with the left hand

25 – 32 2nd, 1st & 3rd couples dance a 3 couple knot

Another Costco inspired dance. While watching the graceful ballet of parallel twirling of forklifts parting their separate ways at the top of the set. I’m always amazed they don’t crash. The same as waterlilies.

No Video

Don’t Make Me Stop, I’ll Get Lost
Rhonda Raye, RSCDS Atlanta Branch Celebrating 40 Years of Dancing Memories
32-bar reel for three couples in a three-couple longwise set

1 – 2 1st couple crosses down as 2nd couple steps up (no hand given).

3 – 4 1st couple turns 2nd couple three-quarter way round by left hand women’s side and right hand on the men’s side. All finish in a line across facing down, 1st man with his partner on his right.

5 – 8 1st and 2nd couples in line dance down the middle for 4 bars and on bar 7 1st couple takes the lead with 2nd couple behind still facing down.

9 – 12 2nd couple followed by 1st couple dance up to finish 2nd couple in first place on own sides and 1st couple in second place on opposite sides.

13 – 20 2nd and 1st couples dance a ladies chain.

21 – 24 1st couple dance a half turn and twirl while the 2nd and 3rd couples change places on the side and then set for one bar to that person just passed and then set for one bar across the set to partner finishing 3, 1, 2.

25 – 32 All three couples circle six hands round and back.

Repeat with a new top couple.

Note: The figures “down the middle and up” and “ladies chain” fall across phrases.

Devised by Rhonda Raye in memory of Jane Thomaston, known as “Grandma Jane” to many of her dancing friends.

Video: Campbell’s Frolic

Campbell’s Frolic
RSCDS Book 15
32-bar jig for three couples in a four-couple longwise set

1 – 2 1st and 2nd couples set.
3 – 6 1st and 2nd couples dance right hands across once round.
7 – 8 1st couple cast off one place and 2nd couple dance up to first place.

9 – 16 1st couple repeat bars 1-8 with 3rd couple, dancing left hands across on bars 11-14.

17 – 24 1st couple set, lead up to the top and cast off one place. 3rd couple step down on bars 19-20.

25 – 32 2nd, 1st and 3rd couples dance six hands round and back.

Repeat, having passed a couple.

David Rutherford: Compleat Collection of 200 of the most celebrated
Country Dances both old and new …Vol 1, London, c. 1755.
Original tune: Campbell’s Frolic (Rutherford)
Music: Eileen Watts Reel by Luke Brady.

Dances for June 17, 2026

June 14, 20268x32 Jigs, 8x32 Reels, 8x32 Strathspeys, Summer, Summer 2026Ottawa Dance Scottish

Ottawa Summer Class

No Video

The Accordion Player
Pam Stephens, Between the Rivers
A 32 bar reel for 3 couples

1 – 4 All three couples advance and retire.

5 – 8 1st couple dance in towards each other and cast off one place, as 2nd couple step up.

9 – 12 All three couples advance and retire.

13 – 16 1st couple turn 2nd corner with left hands once round, finishing back to back in the center facing the opposite side.

17 – 24 Dance inverting double triangles, 1st couple finishing facing 1st corners.

25 – 32 1st couple dance corners pass and turn with 1st corner; repeat with 2nd comer, finishing in second place on own sides.

Repeat from second place.

Devised by Pam Stephens.

Devisor’s note: Dedicated to Liz Donaldson, great musician and piano player, who impressed us all when she also took up the accordion!

Video: I’ll Gang Nea Mair Tae Yon Toon

I’ll Gang Nea Mair Tae Yon Toon
RSCDS Book 15
40-bar strathspey for three couples in a four-couple longwise set

1-8 1st and 2nd couples dance right hands across and left hands back.
9 – 16 1st couple lead down the middle for three steps, lead up to the top of the set and turn with the right hand once round to finish in original places.

17 – 24 1st, 2nd and 3rd couples dance a grand chain.

25 – 28 1st, 2nd and 3rd couples set and, giving right hands, cross over.

29 – 32 1st, 2nd and 3rd couples repeat bars 25-28 back to places.

33 – 36 1st and 2nd couples set twice and, on the second setting, advance to form a diagonal line, 1st woman and 2nd man back to back. 1st and 2nd couples join both hands with partner.

37 – 40 1st and 2nd couples dance a half poussette.

Repeat, having passed a couple.
T Wilson: Analysis of the London Ballroom, 1825.
Original tune: Mr Patrick Duff Junior’s Strathspey (D Grant)

I’ll gang nae mair tae yon town,
O, never a’ my life again;
I’ll ne’er gae back tae yon town
To seek anither wife again.

These are the old words to a tune which appeared in Robert Bremner’s Scots Reels (1757), iin James Oswald’s Caledonian Pocket Companion (1759), and in James Aird’s First Book (circa 1784).

Robert Burns used this widely-known song as the basis for two poems and both were published in James Johnson’s The Scots Musical Museum, Volume 5.

The first, “I’ll Ay Ca’ in by Yon Town”, was written by Burns for his wife, Jean Armour (1767–1834), whom he at long last married in 1788.

In regard to the second, “O Wat Ye Wha’s in Yon Town”, Stenhouse said: “Both of the songs were composed in honour of ‘His Jean’, afterwards Mrs Burns.” This is not entirely true for the second song was written for Jean Lorimer, a friend of Burns for nearly all of his life and whom Burns called “Chloris”. Described by the poet as “one of the finest women in Scotland”, he wrote at least twenty-four songs in her honour. Typical of Burns, he changed the name “Jean”, which occurs several times in the song, to “Lucy” and sent a copy of “O Wat Ye Wha’s in Yon Town” to Lucy Johnstone Oswald, a distinguished amateur composer, a celebrated beauty and Burns’ “imcomparable woman” who was married to Richard Oswald of Auchincruive.

No Video

Blue Moon Rendezvous
32 bar jig for 3 couples

1-4 1st couple set and cast off one place, 2nd couple step up on bars 3 and 4.

5-8 1st couple set and turn three quarters round, giving left hands and end in the center, 1st man facing up, 1st woman facing down. Meanwhile, 2nd and 3rd couples turn once round, giving left hands and end facing out on own sides.

9-16 2nd, 1st and 3rd couples dance left shoulder reels of three on own sides. 1st man passes left shoulder with 2nd man and 1st woman passes left shoulder with 3rd woman to begin. 1st couple finish the reel by dancing towards each other through 2nd place, pulling back right shoulder to end back to back in the center facing own sides. 2nd and 3rd couples dance long loops at end of reels.

17-22 2nd, 1st and 3rd couples dance six bars of double triangles.

23-24 1st couple, with two pas de basques and staying back to back, dance three quarters round to the right, to end 1st man facing up and 1st woman facing down. 2nd and 3rd couples continue setting.

25–28 1st man with 2nd couple and 1st woman with 3rd couple circle once round to the left (8 slip steps). 1st couple release right hands on 6th step and open out to finish in 2nd place own side. 2nd and 3rd couples retain hands with partners.

29-32 2nd, 1st and 3rd couples circle once round to the left.

Repeat, having passed a couple.

This dance was devised by Fred DeMarse for Linda Henderson, originally from North Berwick, Scotland and currently of Alamo, California on the occasion of her first Scottish Country Dance workshop teaching engagement in Truckee, California on June 30th, 2007, which coincided with an occurrence of a Blue Moon.

Video: Campbell’s Frolic

Campbell’s Frolic
Book 15 – No. 3
32-bar jig for three couples in a four-couple longwise set

1 – 2 1st and 2nd couples set.
3 – 6 1st and 2nd couples dance right hands across once round.
7 – 8 1st couple cast off one place and 2nd couple dance up to first place.

9 – 16 1st couple repeat bars 1-8 with 3rd couple, dancing left hands across on bars 11-14.

17 – 24 1st couple set, lead up to the top and cast off one place. 3rd couple step down on bars 19-20.

25 – 32 2nd, 1st and 3rd couples dance six hands round and back.

Repeat, having passed a couple.

David Rutherford: Compleat Collection of 200 of the most celebrated
Country Dances both old and new …Vol 1, London, c. 1755.
Original tune: Campbell’s Frolic (Rutherford)

Dances for June 10, 2026

June 7, 20263x32 Reels, 8x32 Jigs, 8x32 Reels, 8x32 Strathspeys, Summer, Summer 2026Ottawa Dance Scottish

Ottawa Summer Class

Video: Kirsten’s Jig

Kirsten’s Jig
Ron Wallace, Give it a Whirl
32-bar jig for three couples in a four-couple longwise set

1 – 8 1st and 2nd couples dance the bourrel using RIGHT hands for the turns:
1st man and 2nd woman set advancing, turn by the RIGHT hands just over halfway and turn RIGHT about to face partner. 1st man faces down and 1st woman faces up.
while:
1st woman and 2nd man dance anti-clockwise round to face partner in a line up and down the middle of the set.
All set to partner and turn by the RIGHT hand. 1st couple turn right about to face first corners while 2nd couple cross to own side in first place

9 – 16 Corners pass and advance and retire:
1st couple pass first corners RIGHT shoulder and dance to meet partner to pass RIGHT shoulder, pass second corners RIGHT shoulder and join right hands to face up the middle in second place.
while:
9 – 12 First corners advance and retire.
13 – 16 Second corners advance and retire.
(On bar 10 (first corners) and bar 14 (second corners), corners slap both thighs on count “1”, clap hands together on count ‘and’ clap both hands to opposite corner on count “2”). Coach: advance for 1, slap clap clap, retire, retire

17 – 24 2nd,1st, and 3rd couples dance mirror reels:
1st couple lead up the middle and cross over to begin, 2nd couple dance out and down, 3rd couple dance out and up, all joining nearer hands with partner during the reel.
NOTE: At the end of the reel, 2nd couple continue to dance out and down as 1st couple dance up the middle to smoothly connect the reel and the non-progressive allemande, while the 3rd couple dance the long way into place to complete the reel.

25 – 32 2nd and 1st couples dance a non-progressive allemande:
25 – 26 1st couple dance up the middle taking hands in promenade hold before lifting them over smoothly into allemande hold.
while: 2nd couple cast off and dance down the side lines to meet in second place and take hands in promenade hold.
27 – 28 1st couple dance bars 3-4 of a standard allemande for two couples.
while: 2nd couple dance up the middle as they lift joined hands into allemande hold then turn onto the men’s side behind 1st couple.
29 – 32 1st and 2nd couples dance bars 5-8 of a standard allemande for two couples.

Deviser: Ron Wallace
Music: “Kirsten’s Jig” by Muriel Johnstone
This dance was commissioned by Kirsten Steinbach’s husband, Jenz, and first presented in Freiburg, Germany at a weekend course there.

Video: This is no’ my ain Hoose

This is no’ my ain Hoose
RSCDS Book 15
32-bar strathspey for three couples in a four-couple longwise set

1 – 4 1st and 2nd couples dance right hands across once round. On bar 4, 1st couple cast off one place and 2nd couple dance up.

5 – 8 1st couple repeat bars 1-4 with 3rd couple, dancing left hands across.

9 – 16 1st couple set, lead up to the top, cast off one place and, giving right hands, turn to face first corners. 3rd couple step down on bars 13-14.

17 – 24 1st couple dance round first corners, passing by the right and dance round partner, passing by the left, to face second corners. 1st couple dance round second corners passing by the right and, giving left hands, turn to face first corners.

25 – 32 1st couple set to first corners, set to each other across the set, set to second corners and, giving right hand to partner, turn to second place on own sides.

Repeat, having passed a couple.

Holmain Ms. c.1710-1720: from a notebook (early 18th Century) found in the Holmain (Dumfriesshire) Family Charter Chest. (Now in National Archives of Scotland.) By courtesy of the
Rev. W Mitchell Carruthers and Mr A Stanley Carruthers.

Original tune: Mrs Colonel Sinclair of Forss (D Grant)

Video: The Reel Of The Gordon Highlanders

The Reel Of The Gordon Highlanders
(32 bar reel for three couples in a four-couple set)
Aad L.M. Boode, The Delft Book Of Scottish Country Dances

1 – 8 1st couple cross over giving right hand, cast off 1 place (2nd couple move up); 1st man dances a ½ figure of eight between 3rd couple and round 3rd man – while – 1st woman does the same between 2nd couple and round 2nd woman, to finish 1st couple in 2nd place on own sides.

9 – 16 1st couple dance reels of three on own sides with 2nd and 3rd couples, giving LEFT shoulder to the person on their LEFT to begin, i.e.: 1st and 2nd men pass left shoulder and 1st and 3rd women pass left shoulder, to finish 1st couple in a diagonal line RIGHT hand joined with partner and LEFT hand with partner’s 1st corner. 2nd and 3rd couples turn the long way round to places.

17 – 24 Balance in line RIGHT ROUND or THE SPOKE (clockwise)
(Note: Everyone is dancing for 8 Pas de Basque steps. Only 1st couple move round, the other dancers set diagonally across the set when hands are not joined diagonally (1st couple may use skip change of step on last bar).)
1st couple retaining partner’s RIGHT hand throughout,
balance in line with partner’s 1st corner,
move on a ¼ turn clockwise,
balance in line with 2nd corner,
move on a ¼ turn clockwise,
balance in line with 1st corner,
move on a ¼ turn clockwise,
balance in line with partner’s 2nd corner,
1st couple drop hands and dance into 2nd place own sides.

25 – 32 2nd, 1st and 3rd couples dance six hands round to the left and back.

Repeat, having passed a couple.

(Dance crib compiled by the deviser, Aad L.M. Boode, Delft, 1994)

No Video

Don’t Make Me Stop, I’ll Get Lost
Rhonda Raye, RSCDS Atlanta Branch Celebrating 40 Years of Dancing Memories
32-bar reel for three couples in a three-couple longwise set

1 – 2 1st couple crosses down as 2nd couple steps up (no hand given).

5 – 8 1st and 2nd couples in line dance down the middle for 4 bars and on bar 7 1st couple takes the lead with 2nd couple behind still facing down.

9 – 12 2nd couple followed by 1st couple dance up to finish 2nd couple in first place on own sides and 1st couple in second place on opposite sides.

13 – 20 2nd and 1st couples dance a ladies chain.

25 – 32 All three couples circle six hands round and back.

Repeat with a new top couple.

Note: The figures “down the middle and up” and “ladies chain” fall across phrases.

Devised by Rhonda Raye in memory of Jane Thomaston, known as “Grandma Jane” to many of her dancing friends.

Music: Eileen Watts Reel by Luke Brady.

Dances for June 3, 2026

May 30, 20263x32 Strathspeys, 8x32 Reels, 8x40 Jig, Summer 2026Ottawa Dance Scottish

Ottawa Summer Class

Video: Middling, thank you

Middling, thank you
RSCDS Book 15
40-bar jig for three couples in a four-couple longwise set

1 – 8 1st and 2nd couples set twice and dance half rights and lefts.

9 – 16 2nd and 1st couples repeat bars 1-8 to finish in the middle of the set facing partners, both hands joined.

17 – 24 1st and 2nd couples dance a poussette.

25 – 32 1st couple lead down the middle and up and cast off one place to face first corners.

33 – 40 1st couple turn first corners with the right hand, partner with the left hand, second corners with the right hand and, giving left hand to partner, cross over to second place on own sides.

Repeat, having passed a couple.

Dances for 1813, published by Button and Whittaker, 1813.
Original tune: Middling, Thank you (Traditional)

TACNotes:’
15-16 2nd woman helps 1st woman, 1st man helps 2nd man, into position for poussette before completing their polite turns.

No Video

Peridot and Sapphire
Debbie Crossley . The Fourth Sheaf Collection of Scottish Country Dances
32-bar strathspey for three couples in a three-couple longwise set

1 – 6 1st woman, followed by her partner, casts off behind the women’s line, crosses the set below 3rd couple. 1st woman dances up behind the men’s line to 1st man’s place whilst 1st man dances up the middle of the set to finish in 1st woman’s place (turning in the easy way, left shoulder pulled back).
7 – 8 1st and 2nd couples set on the side.

9 – 16 1st and 2nd couples dance a circulating knot, with 1st couple finishing facing partner’s first corner.
(9-10) 1st and 2nd couples turn partner right hand halfway into allemande hold, first couple are facing up and 2nd couple are facing down.
(11-12) 1st couple turn to left to dance across to the men’s side and turn to face down and dance down the sideline to second place whilst 2nd couple turn to dance across to the woman’s side and turn to face up then dance up the sideline to first place.
(13-14) 2nd and 1st couples both release right hand to pass the woman in front as 2nd man continues to dance up the women’s side and 1st man continues to dance down the men’s side.
(15-16) 2nd couple continue to turn by the left hand to finish in first place on own side whilst 1st couple continue to turn by the left hand to finish facing partners first corners.

17 – 20 1st couple and first corners dance corners pass and turn. First corners turn with the right hand. 1st couple pass by the right shoulder to face partner’s second corner.
21 – 24 1st couple and second corners dance pass corners and turn. Second corners turn with the right hand. 1st couple pass by the right shoulder to finish in second place opposite sides.

25 – 28 All three couples chase half-way round clockwise.
29 – 32 1st couple, giving both hands, turn once and finish on own sides whilst 2nd and 3rd couples, giving both hands, turn halfway and face partner before turning to the right to dance out to own sides. Finish 3 1 2.

Repeat from new positions.

Devised by Debbie Crossley, Sheffield Branch, 2021.
The dance was written to celebrate the marriage of Jana Hesselmann to Reg Stones. The first eight bars remind us of Reg and Jana dancing The Flowers of Edinburgh at the Scunthorpe dance when Luke Brady and his band came to play. The dance was encored with enthusiasm. The second eight bars celebrate Reg and Jana’s unique style of doing things their way. The third eight bars remind us that it’s not unheard of for Reg to switch sides part way through a dance. The final four bars are because Reg and Jana have found the partner they want to keep hold of. Formations in bold can be found in the Formations file.

Video: King’s Croft

King’s Croft
Ann Dix, Real Friends Book 2
A 32 bar reel for Three 2 couple sets in a triangular spoke formation

1 – 4 1st & 2nd couples dance right hands across,

5 – 8 1st & 2nd couples dance a circle to the left

9 – 12 1st & 2nd couples, set advancing to join right hands with partner, 1st woman and & 2nd man join left hands for a balance in line, the women pull back eight shoulders to be beside partners, all facing anticlockwise.

13 – 16 All promenade ⅓ round anticlockwise and face partner in single line, men with backs to centre

17– 24 All dance a petronella & set twice to single line, now women with backs to centre

25 – 28 All ½ Reels of four;
29 – 32 All turn partner ¾ with the right hand to sides (2,1)

Repeat once, ending with Tulloch turn

No Video

The Ottawa Flourish
Craig Williams
A 32 bar reel for 3 couples in a 4 couple longwise set

1-8 1st and 2nd couples dance right hands across and left hands back

9-16 1st couple lead down the middle and back to 2nd place. 2nd couple step up on bars 11 – 12

17-24 1st woman dance right hands across with 2nd couple while 1st man dances right hands across with 3rd couple. 1st couple pass right shoulders to dance left hands across, 1st woman with 3rd couple and 1st man with 2nd couple.

25-32 2nd couple followed by 1st and 3rd couple, dance down the middle and cast up on own sides.

Repeat having passed a couple

A simple dance inspired by Glasgow Flourish form RSCDS Book 11

Dances for May 27, 2026

May 23, 20263x32 Strathspeys, 8x32 Jigs, 8x32 Reels, Summer, Summer 2026Ottawa Dance Scottish

No Video

Test Dance 1
Craig Williams, March 2026
A 32 bar reel for 3 couples in a 4 coupe set

1 – 4 1st couple set and 1/2 turn with the right hand moving down to 2nd place finishing in the middle facing each other with right hands joined. 2nd couple step up on bars 3-4.
5 – 6 1st couple pull back right shoulders and dance out to 2nd place on opposite sides
7 – 8 1st & 2nd couples, taking hands, set on the sides.

9 – 16 2nd & 1st couples repeat bars 1-8 to finish on opposite sides

17 – 20 2nd couples followed by 1st couple dance a 1/2 figure of eight around 3rd couple. Begin by crossing down between 3rd couple. Finish in own side in progressed places.
21 – 24 1st woman with 2nd couple, 1st man with 3rd couple dance right hands across

25 – 32 2nd, 1st & 3rd couples dance reels of 3 on the side. 2nd &1st man, also 1st & 3rd women, pass left shoulders to begin.

No Video

Test Dance 2
Craig Williams, Leaflet August 2025
A 32 bar reel for 3 couples in a 4 couple longwise set

1 – 8 1st couple, giving right hands, cross below 2nd couple, cast down behind 3rd couple and meet below 3rd couple, joining nearer hands, dance up to the top and change sides, woman dancing under the raised arms. Finish in the centre of the set facing down.

9 – 16 All 3 couples dance a mirror reel of three on the sides, 1st couple dancing through 2nd place, 2nd couple dancing out and up, 3rd couple in and up. Finish on the sides in original places.

17 – 24 1st & 2nd couples dance the Rosette:
17 – 18 1st & 2nd couples 1/2 turn RH and take hands in a circle
19 – 20 1st & 2nd couples set
21 – 24 1st & 2nd couples pull back right shoulders and cast into a chase to progressed places

25 – 32 All 3 couples circle for 3 bars, cross right foot over left and pivot to face anti-clockwise, all chase back

Video: The Merchant City

The Merchant City
Anne Thorn, 90th anniversary of Glasgow Branch
32-bar strathspey for three couples in a three-couple longwise set

1 – 8 1st and 2nd couples dance ’The Espagnole’ as follows

1 – 2 1st and 2nd women, joining right hands, dance towards the opposite side passing between their partners. On the second step, 1st woman crosses 2nd woman over in front of her, so that 2nd woman dances out and up towards first place while 1st woman dances out and down towards second place. At the same time 1st and 2“d men cross to opposite side passing on either side of their partners.

3 – 4 1st and 2nd man, joining right hands, dance back towards their own side passing between their partners. On the fourth step, 1st man crosses 2nd man over in front of him, so that 2nd man dances up and out towards first place while 1st man dances out and down towards second place. At the same time 2nd and 1st women cross back to their own side passing on either side of their partners.

5 – 8 2nd couple turn with right hands while 1st couple turn with left hands.

9 – 12 1st man with 3rd couple, 1st woman with 2nd couple, dance right hands across once round, 1st couple pass by the right

13 – 16 1st man with 2nd couple, 1st woman with 3rd couple, dance left hands across once round, 1st couple finish in second place.

17 – 24 1st and 3rd couples dance ’The Rosette’ as follows

17 – 20 1st and 3rd couples, with nearer hands joined, set, turn partner right hands halfway round and, staying close together, face partner, release hands and cast by the right towards partner’s place

21 – 24 Dance clockwise halfway round to new positions.

25 – 32 2nd, 3rd and 1st couples dance six hands round and back.

Repeat from new positions.

The Espagnole and The Rosette are progressions devised by John Drewry.
Devised by Anne Thorn for the 90th anniversary of Glasgow Branch of the RSCDS.
The figures in the dance reflect the continental trade routes in the city which prospered
due to the Glasgow Merchants and Tobacco Lords.
Tune: Jessie Smith (Trad)

Video: Campbell’s Frolic

Campbell’s Frolic
RSCDS Book 15
32-bar jig for three couples in a four-couple longwise set

1 – 2 1st and 2nd couples set.
3 – 6 1st and 2nd couples dance right hands across once round.
7 – 8 1st couple cast off one place and 2nd couple dance up to first place.

9 – 16 1st couple repeat bars 1-8 with 3rd couple, dancing left hands across on bars 11-14.

17 – 24 1st couple set, lead up to the top and cast off one place. 3rd couple step down on bars 19-20.

25 – 32 2nd, 1st and 3rd couples dance six hands round and back.

Repeat, having passed a couple.

David Rutherford: Compleat Collection of 200 of the most celebrated
Country Dances both old and new …Vol 1, London, c. 1755.
Original tune: Campbell’s Frolic (Rutherford)

Dances for May 20, 2026

May 18, 20263x32 Strathspeys, 8x32 Reels, 8x32 Strathspeys, 8x40 Jig, Summer, Summer 2026, UncategorizedOttawa Dance Scottish

No Video

Grandpa’s Wife
Ferne Katzberg
32 Bar Strathspey for Three Couples

1 – 4 1st and 2nd couples set and cast; 1st couple cast into second place, while 2nd couple dance up to first place and dance a long turn (polite turn) to place

5 – 8 1st and 3rd couples set and cast; 1st couple cast into third place, while 3rd couple dance up to second place and face out on bar 8

9 – 16 1st, 2nd and 3rt! couples dance reels of three on own side, all joining nearer hands where possible

1st couple dance in and up to start
3rd couple dance out and down to start
2nd couple dance in and down to start 17 – 24 1st and 3rd couples dance the Knot, 1st couple finish facing first corners, 3rd couple finish on own side of dance

25 – 32 1st couple dance corner, partner, corner, partner

Repeat having passed a couple.

Music:

The Bonnie Breist Knots (Traditional)
Ben Lomond (Traditional)
Stewart’s Lassie (Traditional)
Miss Muir MacKenzie (Traditional)

Devised for George and Olive Ogilvie, without their dedication Scottish Country Dancing in Yorkton, Saskatchewan would never have become a reality.

Devised by Ferne Katzberg – February 15, 1991

Video: Middling, thank you

Middling, thank you
RSCDS Book 15
40-bar jig for three couples in a four-couple longwise set

1 – 8 1st and 2nd couples set twice and dance half rights and lefts.

9 – 16 2nd and 1st couples repeat bars 1-8 to finish in the middle of the set facing partners, both hands joined.

17 – 24 1st and 2nd couples dance a poussette.

25 – 32 1st couple lead down the middle and up and cast off one place to face first corners.

33 – 40 1st couple turn first corners with the right hand, partner with the left hand, second corners with the right hand and, giving left hand to partner, cross over to second place on own sides.

Repeat, having passed a couple.

Dances for 1813, published by Button and Whittaker, 1813.
Original tune: Middling, Thank you (Traditional)

TACNotes:
15-16 2nd woman helps 1st woman, 1st man helps 2nd man, into position for poussette before completing their polite turns.

No Video

Peridot and Sapphire
Debbie Crossley . The Fourth Sheaf Collection of Scottish Country Dances
32-bar strathspey for three couples in a three-couple longwise set

Repeat from new positions.

Video: The Celtic Kiwi

The Celtic Kiwi
John Drewry, Bankhead Part 1
October 1991
for the dancers of Whangarei, New Zealand

Hornpipe – 3 couples – 32 bars

Tune – “The Redesdale Hornpipe” by James Hill, who also composed the “High Level Hornpipe”
use of this tune was suggested by Janette Johns of Whangarei.

1 – 8 1st, 2nd and 3rd couples dance reels of three on the sides.
To begin:- 1st couple dance down crossing over to reel on opposite sides;
2nd couple dance out and up;
3rd couple dance in and up.
All join nearer hands with partners where possible in the reels.
At the end:- 1st couple dance in to join nearer hands facing down;
2nd couple stay facing out;
3rd couple dance in to join nearer hands facing up.

9 – 16 1st and 3rd couples set and dance “petronella in tandem” half way round the set while 2nd couple dance as follows:- 2nd man casts up and dances into the middle in top place, while 2nd woman casts off and dances into the middle in third place; 2nd couple, giving right hands, change places up and down the middle and cast to their right to second place on own sides.

17 – 20 2nd woman dances right hands across with 3rd couple, who are in first place, while 2nd man dances right hands across with 1st couple, who are in third place. Make sure that these wheels are in the middle of the dance.

21 – 24 2nd man, followed by 1st couple, dances up the men’s side while 2nd woman, followed by 3rd couple, dances down the women’s side. All continue to chase clockwise until 1st and 2nd couples are in partners’ original places and 3rd couple are in own original places.

25 – 32 1st and 2nd couples dance a “Kiwi Knot”. i.e. upside-down. They turn partners with the right hand halfway round to finish facing up with hands in allemande hold; they dance out to the men’s side and down (with 2nd couple following 1st couple). Dropping right hands, 2nd and 1st couples dance into the middle and turn partners with the left hand to own sides. (N.B. This is a longer turn than in the ordinary Knot and the dancers need to anticipate this by keeping the whole progression well within the confines of the set.)

Repeat, having passed a couple.

NOTES —- “Petronella in tandem” see notes at end of book,

While I was staying in Whangarei, I was taken (17-10-91) with a group of dancers for a sail in Keith Wright’s yacht “Waihaka” (“The Water Dancer”) A coastal cargo boat passed us; it was called “THE CELTIC KIWI”. The name fired the imagination of the dancers and I was commissioned to write a
dance for them with this title. The dance was to contain “petronella in tandem”, wheels and a knot. I devised the dance the same evening and taught it several times over the next few days.

Imagine our surprise at the Auckland Weekend (26-10-91) to hear that The Celtic Kiwi had sunk on its way to Norfolk Island. The crew (13 men) had been rescued. I have heard recently that the boat was probably overloaded. In any case the blame could not be laid at my door because the boat had changed its name from the “Holmdale” and so, with a name-change and a 13-man crew it was chancing its luck.

“Petronella in Tandem” occurs in several of these dances. Usually it is preceded by setting. It was first used in “Anna Holden’s Strathspey”. In spite of its simplicity, I thought that it was a new idea, but Iain Boyd, in New Zealand, and Marie Boehmer, in Ontario, say they have used it (without a name) in their dances. At least it now has a label.

In my dances, it is danced by a man and a woman standing side by side (the man having the woman on his right – if they were the other way, the man would precede the woman) or by two men or two women standing side by side.

The dancer on the right executes an ordinary petronella turn except that he or she travels slightly beyond the normal position to leave room for the other dancer. The dancer on the left also executes a petronella turn dancing initially closely behind the other dancer (i.e. “in tandem”) to finish once again on the left of the other dancer.

In reels or jigs it is best to execute the movement with skip change of step.

Dances for May 13, 2026

May 7, 20263x32 Reels, 8x32 Jigs, 8x32 Reels, 8x32 Strathspeys, Summer 2026Ottawa Dance Scottish

Ottawa Summer Class

Video: A Trip to the Drakensberg

A Trip to the Drakensberg
RSCDS Book 38
40-bar jig for three couples in a four-couple longwise set

1 – 8 1st couple set, cast off two places and dance up to the top, remaining in the middle of the set. 2nd couple step in on bars 7-8.

9 – 16 1st and 2nd couples dance a poussette. 1st couple release hands at the end of bar 14 and set advancing, passing each other by the left, to face first corners.

17 – 20 1st couple dance a half reel of four with first corners and pass by the left to finish facing second corners.

21 – 24 1st couple dance a half reel of four with second corners and finish in second place on opposite sides.

25 – 28 3rd, 1st and 2nd men dance a petronella turn and set. At the same time, 3rd, 1st and 2nd women set and dance a petronella turn to face partners.

29 – 32 3rd, 1st and 2nd couples, giving right hands, turn partners into allemande hold.

33 – 40 3rd, 1st and 2nd couples dance an allemande.

Repeat, having passed a couple.

Devised by Barbara J Rendle, Somerset West, South Africa.
Original tune: The Britches Maker (Nathaniel Gow, Gow’s Fourth Collection)
The Drakensberg is a range of mountains in Natal, South Africa.

TACNotes:
21-24 3rd man must move quickly through half reel, to complete curve to right into 2nd woman’s position ready for bar 25.

No Video

The Camp of Pleasure
RSCDS Book 15 – No. 4
32-bar strathspey for two couples in a four-couple longwise set

1 – 4 1st couple, giving right hands, turn once round.

5 – 8 1st man and 2nd woman, giving left hands, turn to finish in the middle at second place. On bars 7-8, 2nd man dances up and in to meet 1st woman who steps in. All finish facing up.

9 – 16 2nd man with 1st woman and 1st man with 2nd woman dance an allemande.

17 – 20 1st and 2nd couples lead down the middle, 1st man dancing down and 2nd man dancing up to meet partners.

21 – 24 2nd and 1st couples lead up, 2nd couple finishing in first place and 1st couple in second place.

25 – 32 2nd and 1st couples dance rights and lefts.

Repeat, having passed a couple.

From an old book of Scottish and Irish Dances (title page lost).
Original tune: Charles Leslie of Findrassie’s Strathspey (D Grant)

TACNotes:
7-8 2nd man dances up & in to meet 1st woman, who dances in on bar 8.
17 1st & 2nd women dance in to meet their partners.

No Video

Miss Nicholl’s Reel
Joan Dodwell. Imperial Book of SCDs Book 1-3
32-bar reel for four couples in a four-couple longwise set
Two chords: on the second chord, 2nd and 4th couples cross to opposite sides.

1 – 2 1st couple cast off one place and 4th couple cast up one place. At the same time, 2nd couple dance up to first place and 3rd couple dance down to fourth place.

3 – 6 1st and 4th couples dance right hands across once round.

7 – 8 2nd, 1st, 4th and 3rd couples set to partners.

9 – 14 2nd, 1st, 4th and 3rd couples repeat bars 1-6 from new positions to finish in original places.

15 – 16 All set advancing to meet partners with both hands joined. 1st and 3rd couples face up, 2nd and 4th couples face down.

17 – 24 1st and 3rd couples, 2nd and 4th couples dance interlocking allemandes to finish in the order 3,4,1,2 with 4th and 2nd couples on opposite sides. (Note)

25 – 28 3rd, 4th, 1st and 2nd couples set to partners and, giving right hands, cross over.

29 – 32 2nd couple lead up between 1st couple, cross and dance out between 4th and 1st couples, cast up to first place on opposite sides and, giving right hands, cross to first place on own sides and face out. 3rd, 4th and 1st couples, taking hands on the sides, step down on bars 31-32.

Repeat from new positions.

Devised by Joan Dodwell.

Note: Bars 17-24 are a variation of the interlocking allemandes described in the Manual of Scottish country dancing. In the standard version, the top two couples face up and the bottom two couples face down but it is essentially the same formation. In the original instructions, the formation is referred to as linked allemandes.

Video: King’s Croft

King’s Croft
Ann Dix, Real Friends Book 2
A 32 bar reel for Three 2 couple sets in a triangular spoke formation

1 – 4 1st & 2nd couples dance right hands across,

5 – 8 1st & 2nd couples dance a circle to the left

13 – 16 All promenade ⅓ round anticlockwise and face partner in single line, men with backs to centre

17– 24 All dance a petronella & set twice to single line, now women with backs to centre

25 – 28 All ½ Reels of four;
29 – 32 All turn partner ¾ with the right hand to sides (2,1)

Repeat once, ending with Tulloch turn

Dances for July 30, 2025

July 27, 20253x32 Strathspeys, 8x32 Jigs, 8x32 Reels, Dance Season, Jigs, Reels, Strathspeys, Summer, Summer 2025Ottawa Dance Scottish

Ottawa Summer Class – Last Class

Video: A TRIP TO CRINAN

A TRIP TO CRINAN
From Coast To Coast With Scotch Mist
32-bar jig for three couples in a four-couple longwise set

1-8 1st woman, followed by 2nd and 3rd women, dance across above 1st man, dance round 1st, 2nd and 3rd men, back to place.
9-16 3rd man, followed by 2nd and 1st men, dance round 3rd, 2nd, and 1st women, and dance down the middle of the set. On bar 16, the women dance in and join right hands with their partner facing down.
17-24 3rd couple, followed by 2nd and 1st couple, lead down the middle and up, with 1st couple and 2nd couple remaining in the centre.
25-32 1st and 2nd couples dance the allemande.

Repeat, having passed a couple.
Devised by Andrew and Mairi Collins, Oakville. Crinan is a small village at the Atlantic end of the Crinan Canal in Argyllshire. The Crinan Canal was opened in 1801 as a shortcut for boats from Loch Fyne to the Sound of Jura. Crinan was a childhood playground of Mairi’s, and we visit whenever we go over.

No Video

Ehlana’s Strathspey
32-bar Strathspey for 3 couples in a 3-couple set

1-4 1st couple dance in and cast off one place, 2nd couple stepping up on bars 3-4.

5-8 1st couple dance half figure of eight: 1st woman around 2nd man, 1st man around 3rd woman to end in 2nd place on opposite sides.

9-20 All three couples dance rights and lefts for three.
21-24 1st couple dance a half figure of eight: 1st woman around 3rd woman, 1st man around 2nd man.

25-32 1st and 3rd couples dance “The Rose” progression:

25-26 1st man and 3rd woman set to each other while 1st woman and 3rd man change places giving right hands to end facing out
27-28 1st man and 3rd woman half turn with both hands to face each other on the diagonal with hands joined while 1st woman dances up to 2nd man’s place and 3rd man dances down to 3rd woman’s place.
29-30 1st man & 3rd woman cast to their right, dance out to opposite corner, while 1st woman & 3rd man half turn both hands to face each other on the diagonal with hands joined.
31-32 1st man & 3rd woman dance across to progressed positions on their own side while 1st woman & 3rd man cast to the right to finish on progressed positions on own sides (2 3 1)

Note: All movements in “The Rose” should be dances in as round a shape as possible

Devised by Ellen McRanor
Dedicated to my granddaughter Ehlana
Suggested Tune: The Birks of Invermay

Video: The Provost Wynd

The Provost Wynd
RSCDS Second Book of Graded Scottish Country Dances
32-bar reel for three couples in a four-couple longwise set

1 – 8 1st, 2nd and 3rd couples dance reels of three on own sides. 1st and 2nd men and 1st and 2nd women pass by the right to begin.

9 – 12 1st man and 2nd woman, giving right hands, turn once round.

13 – 16 1st woman and 2nd man , giving left hands, turn once round.

17 – 24 1st couple, giving right hands, cross over and cast off two places and, giving left hands, cross over and cast up one place. 2nd couple step up on bars 19-20.

25 – 28 1st and 3rd couples dance right hands across.

29 – 32 1st and 2nd couples dance left hands across.

Repeat, having passed a couple.

Devised by Roy Goldring.

Video: The Left-Handed Fiddler

The Left-Handed Fiddler
Howard Lasnik, A Tribute to Sally Dee
32 Bar Reel for 3 couples, devised by Howard Lasnik, 1997

Dedicated to Barbara McOwen, a right handed fiddler whose playing inspires so many dancers (and with thanks to Sally Dee for giving me so much encouragement).

1 – 4 1st couple turn by the left hand and cast into 2nd place (2nd couple stepping up on bars 3-4).

5 – 8 1st couple cross by the left hand and cast to the left, 1st man around 2nd woman and 1st woman around 3rd man, finishing in the center of the set, nearer hands joined, facing 2nd woman on the diagonal (as in The Montgomeries’ Rant except the 1st woman is on the 1st man’s right).

9 – 12 1st couple set to 2nd woman, change hands and set to 3rd man.

13 – 16 Set to 3rd woman, change hands and set to 2nd man. End facing 1st corners, 1st man having pulled back his left shoulder.

17 – 20 1st couple turn 1st corners by the left hand. 1st couple turn by the right hand to face 2nd corners.

21 – 24 1st couple turn 2nd corners by the left hand. 1st couple turn by the right hand to finish in 2nd place, own side.

25 – 32 Couples 2, 1, and 3 dance six hands around to the left and back to the right.

Sally Dee Project Committee: Howard Lasnik – MaryEllen Scanell – Marcie Rowland – Tom Pixton

Dances for July 23, 2025

July 20, 20258x32 Jigs, 8x32 Reels, 8x32 Strathspeys, Dance Type, Jigs, Summer, Summer 2025Ottawa Dance Scottish

Ottawa Summer Class

No Video

Bernie’s Triumph
Holly Boyd, Oh, How We’ve Danced
32 bar Strathspey for-three couples in a longwise set

1 – 8 1st, 2nd and 3rd couples dance mirror reels of three on the side; 1st couple dance in and down, 2nd couple up and out, 3rd couple in and up to begin. Touch nearer hands with partner whenever possible

9 – 12 1st and 2nd couples turn 1-1/2 times to change places; men giving right hand, women giving left hand

13 – 16 1st and 3rd couples turn 1-1/2 times to change places; men giving left hand, women giving right hand 2,3,1

17 – 24 2nd, 3rd and 1st couples, taking hands on the side, set. All three men set again as women advance for two. All three men advance for two as women retire for two. All three women set as men retire for two. 2,3,1

25 – 32 3rd and 1st couples dance the tourbillon 2,1,3,4

First couple are in 2nd place ready to repeat the dance

Note: Attention must be paid by first couple after regressing with the tourbillon; they are in second place ready to begin again. Second time through they must cast back to the bottom as the 4th couple dance in to start the reels.

Gabriele Patterson was the winning bidder at a silent auction at TAC in Calgary for a dance written by me. She asked for a dance for her husband: ‘I got the winning hand when I got him’ with a mirror reel of three and a tourbillon.

August 2019

Video: The Greenbelt Jig

The Greenbelt Jig
Elaine Brunken, Moments int Time
32 Bar Jig for 3 couples

1 – 6 1st, 2nd, and 3rd ladies Dance around their partners passing Right shoulder, and dance back to place.
7 – 8 1st, 2nd, and 3 couples Cross over giving Right Hands. (All are on opposite sides)

9 – 14 1st, 2nd, and 3″ men Dance around their partners passing Right shoulder, and dance back to place (Opposite sides).
15 – 16 1st, 2nd, and 3rd couples Cross over giving Right Hands. (1st couple remain facing out)

17 – 24 1st couple Cast off 2 places, join nearer hands and Dance up the middle, and Cast off to 2nd place.
17 – 19 cast 2 places (2nd couple step up on 17&18)
20 – 22 dance up the middle
23 – 24 cast to 2 place

25 – 28 2nd, 1st and 3 couples Advance and Retire.
29 – 32 2nd 1st and 3rd couples Turn by the Right Hand.

At the end of 2 repetition 1st couple finish in 3rd place and step to the bottom The new 3rd lady dances up from the bottom. 3 man steps up on bars 1-2

Repeat having passed a couple

Devised in March 2010 at the St. Columba’s Class in Greenbelt, Maryland. It’s an easy wee jig for all levels and a good warm up dance.

Easily adapts to a 2 couple dance: 1-16 and 25-32 done by 1st and 2nd couple. Bars 17-24 1st couple cast off one place in 4 bars (dance in for one and out for one, then cast for 2), dance up to the top, and cast into 2™ place. (2™ couple step up on 19 & 20)

Suggested Tune: Ride the Wind (Tatsu-Do) (Muriel Johnstone)