Scottish dancing uses three types of music. The “reel” and “jig” have a quick and lively, bright tempo. The third tempo is called “strathspey” and has a much slower, sedate and graceful tempo.
Reel and jig are common in the music and dance tempos of many countries, particularly those in the British Isles. Strathspey, however, is unique to Scotland. This tempo and style comes from Scottish fiddle music, originally that of the Spey Valley in the centre of Scotland.
Check out the links below for an overview of steps and patterns..
The same steps are used for both reels and jigs. When traveling forward or back, the step is called “skip-change-of-step” and alternates right foot and left foot.
When dancing on the spot (setting), the step is called “pas de basque” and also alternates right and left foot.
When dancing to strathspey music, moving forward or back or to the side the step is called “strathspey travelling” step. When dancing on the spot it is “strathspey setting” step. There are only two steps for strathspey and they both alternate right foot and left foot.
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