strathspey@strathspey.org:24466

Patricia Ruggiero

RE: Counting, was C.D. Dance to the Pipes

Jan. 23, 2001, 4:30 a.m. (Message 24466, in reply to message 24465)

John wrote:
"This brings up something I've been curious about. I've heard several
instructors count reels and strathspeys as a 1-2-3, 2-2-3, etc.

"As a musician, well, piper, this method of counting music with a duple beat
in triple time is confusing to me.  It fits with jigs and waltzes, but
requires a "silent"  or "implied" count when done with reels, strathspeys,
and hornpipes. Why isn't it just counted?"

I'm with you.  It drives me crazy to hear the pas de basque counted "1-2-3"
instead of "1 and 2 and."  I don't know the answer to your question.  The
few instructors I asked merely looked blank, not being musicians themselves.
What I've concluded is that teachers are counting out *footfalls* but I
admit that's not a satisfactory explanation either.

I'm also looking forward to the replies on this List.

Rhythmically yours,
Pat (a musician as well as a dancer)