Guide Note
Square dance is a style of American folk dancing usually performed by teams of eight people divided into four groups of two. The dancing teams position themselves in a square-shaped arrangement, performing dance moves which are announced by a square dance caller to the beat of the music. . In competitive square dancing, the participating couples must sequence their steps with their teammates' to successfully complete a dance performance.
Square dancing is widely popular in the Western United States, but events and instructional classes are held worldwide.
Fast Facts
- Created: New England, U.S., gained popularity in the 1930s
- Participants: 8 people divided into 4 couples
- Government credentials: Official state dance in 24 states1
- Styles: Traditional, Modern Western
- Common steps: Dosado, bow, circle, promenade, forward, back, swing, and allemande
[edit] Comparing Styles
Traditional and Modern Western square dancing both share their roots from the dance's origin in the New England and Appalachian regions of the United States, but the two styles also share distinct differences.
- Traditional square dancing is performed with traditional country music, mostly inspired by Irish jigs and folk music from various other countries, including Canada and England. The Traditional style of square dance music is almost always performed by live bands with acoustic instruments.
- Western Modern square dancing is usually performed to a recorded soundtrack with a variety of different musical styles. Some modern square dancers perform their steps to the sound of rock, pop, and even Electronica music, such as with Rednex' "Cotton-Eyed Joe".
