Country Dancing

3.11.23 Elfrida recorded the dances.

• Birthday Reel a 4 couple dance
• Jackdaw 4 couple dance, to a different, more lively tune – Cumberland Long Eight.
• Jump frogs jump 2×3 couple set.
• The Magpie – longways.
• Sprigs of Laurel – longways
• Brighton Review – longways.

10.11.23 from June’s dance records.

• The Merry Monarch 3 couple dance.
• Aughton Reel 4 couple dance.
• Leaving of Liverpool 3 couple dance
• Trip to Sheringham 4 couple dance in a square formation.
• One each & all together (unlikey to repeat this dance)
• Lord Caernavon’s Jig 4 couple dance 1851 reconstructed by Cecil Sharp 1910.

17.11.23 including some of Geraldine’s Birthday requests.

• Barn Dance Reel.
• Brighton Le Sands a June Jones longways dance.
• Welcome in the May slightly out of Season but a good longways dance by Sharon Green 2018.
• and following on the theme Upon a Summer’s Day a 3 couple dance.
• The Spaniard choreography & music, Playford 1777.
• Whim of the Moment a longways dance , choreography & music Thompson 1791.

24.11.23 John called the dances.

• Go to the Devil and Shake Yourself a longways dance from 1795/99
• A fig for Bonaparte longways, by Henry Thompson 1804. On 2nd December 1804 – Bonaparte was crowned Emperor of France. (some kind of political comment?)
• The Whim of the Moment see last week.
• We Will Down with The French a 3 couple dance following the French theme, Thompson 1780 reinterpreted by Charles Bolton 1997.
• Brighton Review a longways dance 1794.
• The Leaving of Liverpool 3 couple dance x2.

Delighted to announce, that this month we’ve had a new couple join the group. Still room for more dancers if you’d like to try Country Dancing.

Last Updated on November 28, 2023

6.10.23 Elfrida recording the dances.

• Duke of  York’s cotillion – 3 couple dance (deferred)
• Prince Rupert’s March see last week.
• Bartlett Bells also danced last week.
• Greengage a nice longways dance & music.
• James’ Park – longways, also deferred.
• Whim of the moment – longways, went well , all went home happy.

13.10.23

• The new Rigged Ship a 3 couple dance.
• Fine Dame a 4 couple dance by Simone Verheyen.
• Nonesuch a 4 couple dance pub. Playford 1651, adapted by Pat Shaw 1964.
• On the Edge II a June Jones 4 couple square formation dance with Grand Squares.
• Lord Caernarfon’s Jig a 4 couple dance from 1651, reconstructed by Cecil Sharpe 1910.

20.10.23

• Hit and Miss a 2 couple dance, pub. by Playford 1651 in The English Dancing Master.
• St. James Park  a longways dance from 1718, source John Young.
• Fret and Rejoice a longways Gary Roodman dance from 2015.
• If all the World were Paper… a traditional 4 couple dance from 1651 in a square formation.
• She looked down her nose and Sneered a longways dance and a fascinating title!
• Nampwich Fair a longways Playford dance.

27.10.23

• Barbara Walton’s delight a 3 couple dance, apparently written by her friend Irene Crew. Barbara was due to retire but sadly died before this happened. Published in 1999.
• The Slof Galliard a 4 couple dance by Pat Shaw in 1975, everyone is dancing all the time in this flowing dance. (a belated birthday request from Wendy)
• Handel with Care a 2 couple Gary Roodman dance.
• On the Edge II see 13th. danced a few times.
• Jamaica a 4 couple Playford dance from 1670 adapted by Tom Cook.

A good selection of both Traditional and Contemporary dances.

Last Updated on October 27, 2023

1.09.23

• One is one and all alone…..a longways dance by Fried de Metz Herman 1994 part of a series.
• Freeford Gardens another longways dance by David & Katherine Wright. Good tune.
• Dancing at Lughnasa a 4 couple June Jones dance MarkII
• Black Bess a longways dance from Dancing Master 1696-1728
• Faithful Shepherd a longways dance Charles & Samuel Thompson 1773.
• Gasconne see 21.07 23

8.09.23

• Winifred’s Knot a 4 couple dance from 1652.
• The Merry Andrew  a 3 couple dance by Marjorie Heffer & William Porter 1932
• The Waters of Holland a 3 couple dance by Pat Shaw 1971
• Dunant’s House waltz a 3 couple dance by Colin Hume 1991.
• Bells of Newport a longways dance.

15.09.23 Elfrida calling the dances today.

• The Prince Regent a 3 couple dance.
• Simple square as  befits the title, danced in a square formation for 4 couples. From Margaret McFarlanes collection of dances.
• Birthday Reel a 4 couple dance. Just because we like it, not for anyones Birthday!
• Which way now MkII a June Jones 4 couple dance with diagonals & stars!
• Go to the Devil and shake yourself a longways dance 1795/9.
• Trip to Sheringham danced in a square formation. The music getting faster & faster.

22.09.23 Elfrida recording the dances for the next 3 sessions.

• a longways dance Olive Grove danced to the tune Childgrove.
• a 3 couple dance April’s Lady a waltz danced x2.
• a 3 couple dance A Lady Remembered.
• a longways dance The Militia danced April 2023.
• a longways dance  Irish Lamentation a slow waltz from the Walsh Collection 1735 and rather beautiful.

29.09.23

• In the Fields of Frost & Snow a longways dance.
• Bartlett Bells with diagonal Heys.
• Prince Rupert’s March a 4 couple dance with lots of casting & 1st man in the lead.
• Dunham Oaks a longways dance.
• Prince William of Gloucester a longways waltz.

Last Updated on October 17, 2023

4.08.23

• Barberini’s Tambourine a longways dance from the Walsh Collection c 1735. We last danced this in August 2019.
• Bartlett Bells another longways dance.
• Greensleeves and Yellow Lace this is a 3 couple dance which has gone out of fashion but June is keen to give it another chance. From Dancing Master 1721. It was challenging!
• Handel with care a Gary Roodman 2 couple dance from 1987. 

We danced most of these dances x2.

11.08.23 Some Golden Oldies from 1650’s. (ex 3 & 5)

• The Maid peeked out the Window or The Friar in the Well a 4 couple dance x2.
• Gray’s Inn Mask a 4 couple dance with the tune at varied speeds. Very enjoyable.
• Cat’s Cradle Mk2 a June Jones 4 couple dance. Mk1 28.07.23.
• Bobbing Joe a 4 couple dance, slow and measured. 4 movements synonymous with Traditional dances.
• Ashley’s Ride a 3 couple American dance 1795 by Nancy Shepley.
• Upon a Summer’s Day a 3 couple dance. A fitting finish to an August summer day.

18.08.23 Elfrida recording.

• Chocolate Cake 4 couple- which we’ve danced before. You can never have enough cake!
• Bobbing Joe see last week. Music- Balshazzars Feast playing J.Playford’s Secret Ball.
• Alice – Longways, one of Phillipe Callan’s dances.
• Connaught Water was tried but abandoned!
• Swirl of the Sea – square set 4 couple dance.
• Whim of the Moment – longways. Went well.

25.08.23.

• The Happy Couple a longways dance x2.
• Prince Georges Birthday a longways dance from 1713 with ‘clapping’ to your neighbour and to your partner.
• Dancing at Lughnasa a 4 couple dance. x2
• St. Andrew’s Gardens a longways dance x2

I may have missed a dance here but will add next month if so.

Last Updated on August 30, 2023

7.07.23 Elfrida recording the dances. More of Wendy’s birthday choices.*

• Black Nag (see last week)
• *Leah’s Waltz ditto
• Leaving of Liverpool ditto
• *Trip to Bavaria 4 couple Scottish dance by James McGregor Brown.
• *Wibsey Roundabout a 5 couple dance in circle formation, by Gary Roodman 1966.
• *Morrison’s Reel another 5 couple dance.

14.07.23

• *The Rakes of Rochester  a longways dance from 1756 by Rutherford.
• Money in both pockets a longways dance c1800.
• One is One… a longways dance by Fried de Metz Herman 1994.
• Black Nag, Leah’s Waltz, Leaving of Liverpool these 3 dances are being demonstrated at the U3a 20th Celebration later this month.
• Irish Lamentation a longways dance c1735 pub. Walsh.
• Christina a Naomi Alexander longways dance.

21.07.23

• Six for the Six proud walkers…another Fried de Metz Herman dances 1995.
• The 3 demonstration dances, practise makes perfect!
• Double Jubilee a 3 couple Gary Roodman dance c2015. Tune (a great one) by Dave Wiesler.
• Giant Steps a 4 couple June Jones dance, we’re still making a giant effort to improve this .
• Summer Waltz a longways dance
• Gasconne a longways dance from 1710 reinterpreted by Pat Shaw 1965.

28.07.23

• Waters of Holland a Pat Shaw dance from 1977 x2.
• a June Jones – in progress dance, possibly named the Cat’s pyjamas! we will see.
• the 3 demonstration dances -final rehearsal for tomorrows celebration.
• The Baffled Knight a 4 couple dance by Heffer & Porter 1932 one of the early contemporary choreographed dances. (Becoming less baffling!)
• Nonesuch a 4 couple dance Playford 1651
• Lord Caernarfon’s Jig another 4 couple dance from 1651 reconstructed by Cecil Sharpe 1910

Last Updated on July 28, 2023

2.06.23

• A Lady Remembered a John Wood longways dance.
• The Merry Andrew a 3 couple dance 1932 by Heffer & Porter, published by Maggot Pie.
• The Baffled Knight also by Heffer & Porter 1932. I think we were a little “baffled” with this dance, one to return to!.
• Wakefield Hunt a 3 couple triple minor dance by Thompson 1779.
• Moonlight a 3 couple dance
• Dover Pier a longways dance from Preston 1791.

9.06.23 Elfrida calling. June having a well deserved break.

• Jump Frogs Jump a 3 couple dance.
• The Journey a 4 couple dance x2.
• Prince of Wales Fancy a 4 couple dance.
• The Morning Rout a fast 3 couple dance with ‘trotting step’ Thompson 1789 x2
• Roberts Reel a 3 couple dance.
• The Hop Pickers Feast a 3 couple dance Thompson 1786
• Nampwich Fair a longways dance. Playford 1726.

16.06.23 No dancing today

23.06.23 Elfrida calling and recording the dances. Some of Wendy’s Birthday choices * Also Marie’s Birthday request +

• Jump Frogs Jump 
• * Liberty.
• * The Leaving of Liverpool.
• * Leah’s Waltz – Wendy chose The Ashokan Farewell music.
• + Upon A Summer’s Day 

Most danced twice.

30.06.23 Welcome back June with more of Wendy’s Birthday choices*

• * (The) Black Nag a 3 couple dance Playford 1657 x2
• * Jackdaw a 4 couple dance x2
•  Prince of Wales Fancy a 4 couple dance
• The Prince Regent a 3 couple dance x2.
• Trip to Sheringham a 4 couple dance in square formation x2. Not the speedy version.
• The Leaving of Liverpool  a 3 couple dance to the traditional tune, x2. I have previously attributed this dance to June but this is incorrect. Choreographer is not known.
• (The) Comical Fellow a 4 couple dance music & choreography by Thompson.

Last Updated on July 3, 2023

5.05.23

• Slof Galliard a 4 couple dance. In February when we last danced this, “We needed more practise” today we finally cracked it ! x2
• The Northdown Walk a longways dance, choreography & music by Goulding 1820. Some J.J adaptation.
• The Pursuit a longways dance with ‘Heyes’, see 21.04.23 a challenge 2 weeks ago. Danced several times but practise makes perfect!
• Up to no Good a June Jones 3 couple dance, requested by Elfrida, x2
• The Ladies of London a longways dance from the Walsh Collection 1740.

12.05.23

• Welcome in the May a longways dance by Sharon Green 2018.
• Lovely Nancy Choreography & music by Johnson 111 1744. A longways dance.
• Chickpeas and Spinach a 3 couple dance requested by John. This might sound like a recipe but was a challenging dance.
• The Recruiting Officer a 3 couple dance interpreted by Pat Shaw 1960 from Nathaniel Kynaston 1710 in the Walsh collection.
• Canadian Traveller a longways dance by Pat Shaw.

19.05.23 recorded by Elfrida.

• Millicent’s Jig from 1651, a nice 3 couple dance.
• Chelsea Reach a 4 couple square set, Playford style with lots or parts to it, danced x2.
• Friday Square another 4 couple square set dance – music was Life in the fast lane from the Short & Sweet CD.
• Swirl of the Sea 4 couple square set in waltz time, another mini challenge, accomplished 2nd. time around.
• Lord Caernarfon’s Jig a 4 couple longways dance enjoyed by all.

26.05.23 – Elfrida again.

• School for Scandal x2 June adapted a triple minor dance to a 3 couple, which worked well.
• Happy Heyes x2 – 3 couple dance which includes ‘cross heyes’.
• Greengage a longways dance at a  slower pace.
• Lovely Nancy (see 12.05)
• Jack’s Maggot longways dance.

Last Updated on June 6, 2023

3.03.23 Some of John’s Birthday choices.

• Trip to Bavaria a Scottish 4 couple dance by James McGregor Brown. We danced it twice.
• Eastbourne Grove a 3 couple dance by Kevin Prigmore 2015 also danced twice.
• Sam’s Maggot a Traditional 3 couple dance from 1728 reconstructed by Andrew Shaw, also danced twice.
• Posties Jig a 4 couple dance devised by Roy Clowes of Ormskirk. One theory is that the ‘arches’ section of the dance symbolises ‘the tying up of a parcel’ We certainly created a few knots!
• Gasconne see 3.02.23.

10.03.23 No Dancing due to snowy conditions.

17.03.23 with an Irish theme to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.

• Dancing with Friends a longways dance choreography by Elizabeth Goossens 2013. Music by Sue Stapleton from Irish tunes from Liverpool.
• (The) bonny lad & the bonny lass by John & William Neal 1726
• Giant Steps a June Jones 4 couple dance to the tune ‘Blind Mary’ played on the Irish Harp.
• Season of Mists a longways dance.
• The Princess Royal a longways dance by Pat Shaw.
• Shandy Hall a 4 couple dance with circles & half stars.

24.03.23 some more of John’s Birthday choices.

• Criss Cross Jig a 5 couple dance.
• Nonesuch 2 a longways dance.
• Trip to Bavaria see 3.03.23.
• Peace be with you a contemporary longways dance by Fried de Metz Herman.
• Fourpence Halfpenny Farthing a traditional longways dance from 1709.
• Dancing with Friends see last week.

31.03.23 still more of John’s choices…

• Frances Ann’s Delight by George Middleton 1975 for his wife Frances Ann!
• (the) Italian Disappointment a longways dance pub. Neal 1726.
• Marching to Praetorius a Gary Roodman 2 couple dance 1996.
• Indian Princess a Colin Hume 1984 longways dance. Danced to the tune of the Indian Queen.
• Upton Priory a 4 couple waltz time dance.
• Nampwich Fair a longways dance Playford 1726.

There will be no dancing next week as it’s Good Friday

Back on the 14th.April.

Last Updated on March 31, 2023

Correction from 6.01.23. Floss Galliard should read Slof Galliard. (a Morecambe and Wise moment, all the right letters, in the wrong order!)

3.02.23

• Brighton le Sands a June Jones longways dance x2. People always ask, ‘Where is Brighton le Sands?’ x2

It is between Blundellsands to the North, Waterloo to the South and Gt. Crosby to the East.

• Valentine’s Day a longways dance called by Elfrida in preparation for 14th. pub. 1670 Playford. x2
• Up to no Good another June Jones 3 couple dance. 1st. version.
• No Taxes from 1791.
• A Lady remembered a longways dance remembering all former dancers who have ‘passed on’.
• Gasconne a longways dance from 1706 with interpretation by Pat Shaw.

10.03.23

• Portsmouth a longways dance from 1701.
• Roll the Line a longways dance with some ‘travelling’.
• Harvest Reel a 3 couple dance x2.
• Diamond Diversion unsurprisingly, in Diamond formation for 4 people.
• Morrison’s Reel a 5 couple longways  dance. x2
• Nampwich Fair a longways dance pub. Playford 1726, interpretation by Pat Shaw 1964.

17.03.23 some of John’s Birthday choices.

• (The ) Farmer’s Joy a Joseph Pimentel longways dance.
• Two’s Lead a longways dance.
• D’e’il Take the Warr a 3 couple dance from 1721.
• Triplicate danced with 3 in a line, choreography Peggy Roe.
• New German Waltz a longways dance.

24.02.23

• The Spaniard a longways dance 1777.
• Zephyrs and Flora  a longways dance from the Walsh collection 1715.
• (The) Slof Galliard a Pat Shaw dance 1975 for 4 couples.
• Homebound Duet a 2 person dance by Judy Keeling 2020, to the tune Elizabeth.
• Pilgarlic a 3 couple dance from 1751.
• Comical Fellow always a favourite longways dance with clapping. pub. Thompson 1776.

Last Updated on March 3, 2023

2.12.2022 Elfrida calling the dances.

• Holborn March a longways dance Wright 1740
• Toney’s Rant a 4 couple dance.
• (The) Prince of Wales Fancy a British Fan dance c.1792, longways
• Comical Fellow another longways dance  pub. Thompson 1776.
• Orange and Blue a 3 couple dance from 1815.
• Nampwich Fair a Playford dance from 1726. Pat Shaw interpretation 1964.

9.12.2022 Elfrida recording the dances.

• Olive Grove – longways, similar moves to Childgrove & used the same music, nice dance & not complicated.
• Christmas Stars – 3 couple dance, one of Geraldine’s birthday choices, danced twice. 1st. to tune Rigadoon on The Brass Tacks CD. 2nd. to a Scottish Jig Lochiel’s Welcome, on the Short & Sweet CD. This was the favourite.
• Morrison’s Reel– a 5 couple longways another of Geradine’s choices.
• Gloster Reel
• Winifred’s Knot -a 4 couple circular dance.

a further session on 16th. but either of us there to record the dances. Good wishes for Christmas and for a peaceful New Year.

We return to Country Dancing on 6th. January 2023. 

Looking forward to seeing you all then.

Last Updated on December 29, 2022

4.11.22

• Newsham Review a June Jones 3 couple dance, danced x2.
• The Merry merry milkmaid a traditional Playford dance from 1651 for 4 couples.
• A Fair Crossing a 4 couple dance in square formation.
• The Captain’s Maggot a 3 couple Traditional dance from The Dancing Master 9th. edition 1696. (A Pat Shaw interpretation 1962)
• Broom the Bonny Bonny Broom a 4 couple dance from 1650’s
• Lord Caernarvon’s Jig another 4 couple Playford dance 1651.

11.11.22 Many of Pat and Geraldine’s Birthday requests. (some doubling up)

• Leaving of Liverpool a 3 couple dance by June Jones danced x2.
• Maiden Moor see 28.10 22
• Liberty a 3 couple dance from the Yorktown Ball 1781, x2
• Trip to Bavaria this is always tour de force but we cracked it! A 4 couple Scottish dance.x2
• Summer Waltz a longways dance to the tune Once in a Lifetime.
• Mirror Me a contemporary 3 couple dance by Loretta Holz 2007.
• Princess Royal a longways dance to finish the session.

18.11.22 some more of the Birthday requests.

• Fairy Tree a 3 couple dance.
• (The) Geud Man of Ballangigh a longways dance. pub. Playford 1698.
• Wooden Shoes a longways dance 1703.
• Prince William of Glouster’s Waltz 1801 both chosen by Geradine & Pat.
• Fittleworth Frolic a 5 couple dance in circular formation chosen by Pat.
• Zig Zag Tuesday a June Jones longways dance chosen by Geraldine.
• Gasconne a 1710 longways dance.

25.11.22 still a few more Birthday requests.

• (the) Italian Disappointment (intriguing?) Neal 1726 longways.
• Wibsey Roundabout a 5 couple Gary Roodman 1996 dance in circular formation, requested by Pat & Wendy (belatedly) danced x2 as it was so good!
• Irish Lamentationa change of pace & mood, for this longways dance from the Walsh collection c.1735
• Gold for the Mahieus a 3 couple dance by Philippe Callens 1988 x2.
• Pine Cones a Pat Shaw dance from 1974, x2 chosen by Pat.
• Sellenger’s Round a Playford dance in circular formation 1657 chosen by Geraldine.

Last Updated on November 29, 2022

7.11.22 Elfrida recording

• Welch dance – longways
• Paddy whack – 3 c
• New Queen Street – longways, a J.J adaptation.
• Upton Priory – 4c a slower dance!
• Brighton Review – longways
• The Spaniard – longways

14.10.22

• Shandy Hall a 4 couple contemporary dance 1977 by George Middleton, danced x2.
• Giant Steps a 4 couple June Jones dance, one to return too!
• Grimstock a 3 couple Playford dance 1651
• Upon a Summer’s day a lovely 3 couple dance also from 1651.
• Pine Cones a 3 couple Pat Shaw dance & music.

 Celebrating our 15th. Birthday

Many Thanks to June for leading our group so well and thanks to all the dancers who have participated.

21.1022

• Shandy Hall see last week.
• Brighton le Sands as is fitting on our Birthday, a longways dance choreographed by June.
• Mr Hayne’s Reel a longways dance perfecting our Heys.
• Belle of Amherst a 3 couple dance by one of our favourite contemporary choreographers Gary Roodman 2008. Danced x2
• Prince George a longways dance, pub. Playford 1686

28.10.22

• The General a 3 couple dance
• Sams Maggot a belated Birthday choice for John. A super 3 couple dance from The Walsh collection 1728 (reconstructed by Andrew Shaw) x2
• Maiden Moor a 4 couple longways dance. By Tom Cook & Brian Jenkins
• Silver celebration from Margaret McFarlane’s ‘collection’ of dances.
• My Lady Winwood’s Maggot  a 3 couple dance 1728.

Last Updated on November 21, 2022

2.09.22

• Spanking Jack this title needs a little explanation…..ie. spanking new, referring to smart sailors (Jacks), a traditional longways dance.

June & Elfrida unearthed it from the dance collection of Margaret Mc F. our fellow country dancer & teacher. No longer dancing but very much keeping abreast of events.

• Faithful Shepherd a longways dance, pub. Charles & Samuel Thompson 1773.
• Trip to Bavaria a 4 couple dance. A tricky but very enjoyable dance which we pulled off again (with practise)
• Gentle soul another 4 couple dance devised by an American James MacGregor Brown in memory of ‘ a gentle soul’ a fellow dance caller.
• Grimstock a 3 couple traditional dance 1651/2
• Holborn March a longways dance 1740.

9.09.22 Elfrida calling & recording the dances.

• Birthday Reel a 4 couple dance.
• Trip to Bavaria x 2 see last week.
• Spanking Jack see last week also.
• Rakes of Rochester longways.
• The Drummer a big favourite, a longways dance.

19.09.22 June back calling

• Ladies of London a longways dance 1740.
• Syon House a triple time longways dance
• Merry Merry Milkmaids from 1651, a Playford style 4 couple dance
• Border Waltz, for 3 couples.
• 1st  April pub. Thompson 1780.

30.09.22 Elfrida recording.

• Welch Dance a longways dance
• Paddy Whack 3 couple dance.
• New Queen Street, (replacing the original Queen St.) A June Jones adaptation.
• Upton Priory slower dance for 4 couples.
• Brighton Review longways.
• The Spaniard another longways dance

Please note we are now using The Acorn room for our dance sessions.

Last Updated on October 4, 2022

5.08.22  reported by Elfrida.

• Trip to Sheringham a 4 couple dance, a different version of the usual tune which gets faster & faster as it progresses – not as speedy as it sounds but good fun and made a nice change.
• Princess Royal  a longways dance to the tune of Sellengers Round.
• Blew Cap 3 couple dance from Dancing Master 1651, tune, Bath Carnival from Stradivarious Late Arrivals.
• Deodar longways dance.
• Comical Fellow longways, always a favourite.

12.08 22 Session cancelled -The heat got the better of us.

19.08.22

• 1st. of April longways dance from 1780.
• Draper’s Garden longways dance in waltz time.
• Never loved thee more Playford style dance from 1686.
• Which way now (?) a June Jones choreographed dance for 4 couples with diagonals.
• Princess Royal a longways dance.

26.08.22

• Gascconne a longways dance from 1710.
• Champagne choreographed by Jenna Simpson, music Sue Stapleton.
• A Double Duet a 3 longways dance choreographed by Gay Roodman 1999.
• Winifred’s Knot a 4 couple square formation dance, choreography /music  Andrew Shaw 2019.
• A Lady remembered 
• Indian Queen a longways dance from 1701.

Last Updated on August 30, 2022

8.07.22 A couple of Birthdays to celebrate. First six dances are Wendy’s excellent choices.

• Upon a Summer’s Day a 3 couple dance.
• Liberty also 3 for couples.
• Black Nag 3 couple dance.
• Jackdaw a 4 couple dance
• the Prince of Wales Fancy a 4 couple dance.
• Leah’s Waltz a 3 couple dance but not danced to the Ashokan Farewell tune which we did last month.
• Leaving of Liverpool a 3 couple dance.

15.07.22 Elfrida calling the dances today.

• Turning by threes no prizes for guessing  that this is a dance for 3 couples. Choreographed in 2003 by one of our favourites Gary Roodman
• Ye will down with the French another 3 couple dance.
• Leaving of Liverpool also for 3 couples.
• Robert’s Reel and
• Upon a Summer’s day both 3 couple dances

22.07.22 some more of Wendy’s birthday choices.

• the Comical Fellow a longways dance from Thompson 1776. We have a few more dancers this week so can do some longways dances.
• The Waterfall Waltz a Pat Shaw 1996 dance (adapted for 10 dancers to a longways dance.)
• Trip to Sheringham a 4 couple dance, danced in square formation.
• The Drummer, this always feels like a contemporary dance but is in fact from Thompson 1757 but reconstructed in 1992
• The Rakes of Rochester a longways dance from 1748.
• Solitaire also a longways dance.

Only three dance sessions this month but lots of lovely dances.

We continue dancing during August so why not come along and join us.

Last Updated on August 2, 2022

3.06.22 Recorded by Elfrida.

• Prince Regent – 3 couple dance longways.
• Double Jubilee – Gary Roodman 3 couple longways.
• A Guinea Pig dance from June J herself, worked well, just needs a title although June thought she’d ‘tweak’ it a bit.
• Alexander’s birthday – 2 couple dance, another by Gary Roodman.
• The Militia – 3 couple dance
• April’s Lady – 3 couples in a circle.

10.06.22

• The Maid peeped out the window see 5th. May.
• Grand Square 4 couple dance, essentially each dancer walks their own square, with stars & circles!
• Double Trouble another June J. dance, to revisit with a different tune.
• A Fair Crossing another 4 couple square formation dance.
• Pomona (Street.) a 3 couple dance.
• Jamaica 1670 Playford style dance for 4 couples.

17.06.22

Session called by Elfrida.

• Robert’s Reel a 3 couple dance
• Jackdaw a 3 couple dance
• Friday a 4 couple dance in a square formation.
• Prince of Wales fancy another 4 couple ‘fan’ dance.
• Spring Fever a 3 couple dance
• Leah’s Waltz a contemporary 3 couple longways dance, 1989, by Fried de Metz Herman.

24.06.22

Joint session June & Elfrida

• Upon a Summers Day a lovely 3 couple dance Playford style, on a Summers day.
• Helena a Colin Hulme 4 couple longways dance & tune from 1988 to celebrate the wedding of Helena.
• Brighton Review 1794, 4 couple dance
• Trip to Sheringham a 4 couple dance in a square formation.
• Birthday Reel a 4 couple dance which we danced to a new tune
• Prince of Wales fancy see last week.

Last Updated on July 5, 2022

6th. May.

We welcomed in the May by updating our Group photographs. Many thanks to Adrienne and Frank

• today’s dances:-
• The whim of the moment 1791
• Let’s welcome in the May a June Jones dance.
• Indian Queen 1701, an old favourite.
• Lord Caernavon’s Jig, a 4 couple dance
• Irish Lamentation, a 1735 longways dance. Waltz time.
• The Maid peeped out (at) the window, a 1651 traditional dance with lively music.
• The Otters Pool another June Jones choreographed dance. (NB The Liverpool connection)

13th. May Elfrida recording.

• Pilgarlic 3 couple longways x2.
• April’s Lady 3 couple in circle formation (last of my Birthday requests)
• New Exchange 3 couple Playford style with simultaneous corner crosses!
• Brighton Review longways -a bit tricky with limited dancers.
• Indian Queen 

20th. May Elfrida recording again.

• St. Andrew’s gardens longways.
• Which way now? A June Jones composition. 4 couple longways involved diagonals and stars, quite fun & easy, the music from Razzmatazz, tune Close Encounter.
• Wibsey Roundabout – 5 couples in a circle, not done this for a while but we all managed.
• Trip to Sheringham 4 couple square set x2
• Auretti’s  Dutch Skipper longways.

27th. May

• Prince Regent a 3 couple dance, with pousettes. 1811-1820 the Prince Regent for King George IV.
• Which way now. See last week.
• Delia (the amorous Goddess) 3 couple dance by Ellen Taylor. Elegant!
• Double Jubilee a 3 couple Gary Roodman choreographed dance with music by Dave Weisler.x2.
• (Pay) No Taxes 3 couple dance great tune.

Last Updated on May 31, 2022

1st. April

• Drive the cold Winter away 1651 a most appropriate dance for the arrival of Spring. A 3 couple dance.
• Bonny Cuckoo another hint of Spring a 4 couple, Gail Tickner dance 1995.
• Jamaica a traditional 4 couple dance from 1670.
• The Braes of Dornoch, a 4 couple dance.
• The Prince Regent, a 3 couple dance, danced x2. From 1812/13

8th. April.

• Midnight Ramble a longways dance from 1773 pub. Thompson..
• Pluck me a Fig, a choreographed dance by Anna Rain 2011.
• Hit & Miss a 2 couple dance Playford style from 1651.
• Duke of Kent’s waltz, a longways dance
• Lord Caernavon’s Jig from 1651.

No dancing 15th.

22nd. April.

• Birthday Reel, an acknowledgement of recent Birthdays including The Queen’s 96th.
• Childgrove a longways dance requested by Elfrida.
• Chocolate Cake a nod to Easter last weekend!
• Lady Lucy’s maggot, a June Jones choreographed dance in honour of her cat Lucy.
• St. George’s Day, a 4 couple dance, in square formation, danced x2. Tomorrow being St. George’s Day.
• Lord Caernavon’s Jig, a 4 couple dance.

29th. April

some more of Elfrida’s Birthday choices.

• Wooden Shoes, a longways dance.
• Amazonian Archers, Playford 1703.
• Bonnie Lads & Lasses, a longways dance.
• Eastbourne Grove, we danced this in February as one of John’s Birthday requests.
• Waters of Holland, a 3 couple Pat Shaw dance from 1971.
• Solitaire, a longways dance.

Last Updated on May 19, 2022

4th. March

• Monday Night longways dance.
• Mount Hills             ditto
• Friday Square ( now we have the right day!) a June Jones 4 couple dance, with promenading & plenty of action.
• Holborn March longways dance.
• Bonnets so Blue     ditto
• Indian Queen         ditto
• Rostillion                ditto

11th. March

• A sprightly start with Well Done Jack 1718 reconstructed by Andrew Shaw, a longways dance.
• Eastbourne Rover a 3 couple dance, one of John’s Birthday requests.
• De’il Tak the Warr a more gentle pace from 1721. A 3 couple dance.
• Monday night, see last week.
• Maiden Moor, to a jolly tune & 4 couple dance.

18th. March

• The 1st. of April 1780 longways dance pub. Thompson.
• Upon a Summers day Playford style 3 couple dance 1651. A most appropriate dance as it’s warm & sunny outside.
• Irish Lamentation a longways dance from the Walsh collection 1735. A beautiful tune.
• Essex Byways a contemporary 3 couple John Wood dance with Grimstock Heys. danced x3.
• Greengage a longways dance of some complexity!. Choreographed by Brooke Friendly & Chris Sackett 2014.
• Princes Park

25th. March

• Grimstock a 3 couple dance with a selection of “heys” Grimstock, arches & Circular.
• Drive the cold Winter away, 1651 3 couple dance
• Bonny Cuckoo a 4 couple contemporary dance 1995 by Gail Ticknor, danced x2
• My Lady Winwood’s Maggot 1728. A Maggot being someones favourite or a fanciful idea (not the slimy creature) dance x2
• Upon a Summer day, follows on nicely from Drive the cold Winter away,

Last Updated on March 31, 2022

On 4.02.22 we danced: Some of Geraldine’s Birthday requests.

• Royal Meeting to the tuneful Scottish nightingale.
• Roll the Line
• Mirror Me a 3 couple dance.
• Valentine’s Day 1650.
• Sailor’s Wives a 3 couple dance by our own June Jones.
• Farmer’s Joy by Joseph Pimentel.

on 11.02.22 we danced were we left off last week….

• Farmer’s Joy
• Valentine’s Day (nearly at the big day!)
• Sailor’s Wives.
• Come let’s be Merry 1726 a 3 couple dance.
• The Spaniard – Thompson 1777

on 18.02.22 we didn’t dance Storm Franklin!

on 25.02.22 we danced:

• Champagne by Sue Stapleton from Wirral. A longways dance.
• Love’s Triumph x2 a 3 couple dance from 1710.
• In the fields of frost & snow 1710.
• Moonlight a 3 couple dance.
• In the whim of the moment 1791.
• Lord Carnarvon’s Jig

Last Updated on May 20, 2022

This Friday we enjoyed the following dances:

Portsmouth / Star of Kintra (Trevor Monson) / The Lovers’ Knot (Jim Kitch) / The Gypsy Round (Eric Leber)

The Recruiting Officer / The Haymarket (June Jones) / Rostillion

Last Updated on July 20, 2021

Those of us who have opted for ZOOM Solo Country Dancing are still dancing each Friday with June’s excellent guidance. Looking forward to seeing all of you that couldn’t  join us, in June.

I am handing on the Group Author mantle, so look forward to a new slant on Posts from July onwards.

Liz.

Last Updated on July 5, 2021

Welcome to five new dancers so far this year, it great to have new people join us.

7.02.20 Some of Liz’s birthday requests.(L)

• (The) Farmer’s Joy a Joseph Pimentel longways dance, with joyful tune by Adam Broome.
• Pine Cones a 3 couple Pat Shaw dance from 1974. (L)
• Alice longways dance by Philippe Callens 2002 in waltz time. (L)
• Double Jubilee a 3 couple set dance by Gary Roodman 2015 with a tune by David Wiesler. (L)
• Ladies of London a traditional dance from 1718.

some danced two or three times.

14.02.20 more of Geraldine’s & Liz’s birthday requests.

Most appropriately Valentines Day a longways Playford dance 1650.

• Sailor’s wives a 3 couple dance danced twice. (G)
• Sea Breezes another 3 couple dance also danced twice. (L)
• Marching to Praetorius a 2 couple dance by Gary Roodman 1996. (G)

21.02.20 and another of Geraldine’s birthday requests!

• Jamaica we danced the longways version which is the original way from 1670.
• Greenwich Park a longways dance.
• Morrison’s Reel a 5 couple dance which we danced twice to give all a turn. (G)
• Zig Zag Tuesday a longways dance with unsurprisingly zig & zag moves.
• Fourpence halfpenny farthing a traditional longways Playford dance from 1709.

28.02.20 A special treat today dancing to live music with Frank’s band & June calling as usual. Many thanks.

• Indian Queen a longways dance.
• Corelli’s Gavotte this speedy longways number certain gave us a challenge…
• Lead through and Cast away a 3 couple dance.
• A Lady remembered a JohnWood longways dance. We recall dear departed dancers.
• Maiden Moor a 4 couple dance with music/choreography by Tom Cook & Brian Jenkins, 1980.
• (The) Ladies of London from 1718.
• and finally The Duke of Kent’s waltz a longways dance from 1801.

followed up with refreshments, and thanks to all.

Last Updated on February 28, 2020

10.01.20 Elfrida calling the dances today starting with:-

• The first of April ??? a longways traditional dance from 1780.
• Childgrove another traditional dance 1701.
• My Lord Byron’s Maggot a longways dance with clapping 👏🏼.
• The Leaving of Liverpool to the tune the Merry Flirt. A 3 couple dance.
• Liberty from The Yorktown Victory Ball, a 3 couple dance 1781 to the tune Bridle path.
• Portsmouth a longways dance.

17.01.20 Happy New Year to June. With some more of Geraldine’s Birthday (2019) choices.

• The Welch Dance a longways dance from 1790’s.
• Soldiers and Sailors a longways dance (G)
• For Rebecca a square set dance for 4 couples, constantly changing partners, until you get back home. (G)
• and another of (G) Geraldine’s choices Prince William of Gloster’s Waltz. From 1801, reconstructed by Pat Woods 1958.
• The Greenwich Pensioner a 4 couple dance from 1790.

Advance notice for Live Music event on Friday February 28th.

24 01.20

• Whim of the Moment L/ways
• Karla’s Waltz L/ways
• My Lady Anne 3 couple
• Braes of Dornoch 3 couple, with note to do it again on a future occasion.
• Wooden Shoes L/ways.
• Holborn March 

31.01.20 Elfrida recording

• St. James’ Gardens L/ways danced twice, quick moves!
• Wooden Shoes L/ways.
• Shandy Hall 4 couple sets, circles & half stars.
• Shepherd in the fields 3 couple sets X3.
• Holborn March L/ways.

NOTICES. (more country dancing)

Monday 10th. Feb at Emmanuel Church hall at 7.30 Charity Night.

Friday 28th February Live music from Change of Key (Frank’s band)

Last Updated on February 6, 2020