strathspey@strathspey.org:45488

Thomas G. Mungall, III

Re: Regarding Dance Technique and Etiquette

June 9, 2006, 5:59 p.m. (Message 45488, in reply to message 45484)

Sophie, this is an excellent explanation. I have been doing some more
research since I posted and noted that it is in particularly American Contra
and Australian Bush dance tradition that will utilize the thumb turn while
both English and Scottish Country traditions utilize the hand shake hold. I
think since our vintage class attempts dances from other traditions such as
Scottish, English and French, they should utilize the correct traditions
that originate from those dance styles. I think your point is well taken
regarding the use of a thumb hold in a march type of dance, such as the
"Lancer's Quadrille", as being inconsequential but in reels and jigs it is a
matter of safety.

Tom