Question:
Bars 15-16   First couple turn to face corners.

My preference for this movement is a simple 3/4 turn, then letting go both hands to dance towards first corners.

However, it is common practice to complete the turn by finishing back to back having "twirled", the lady/man pulling back the right/left shoulder. Furthermore, first couple often retain nearer hands as they do so. Personally, I find that this detracts from the elegance of the dance.

I had always assumed that my interpretation is correct, but have noticed via comments on the Strathspey Server that it was danced with the "twirl" when demonstrated at the Younger Hall on publication. So, as it is about to be taught to some relative beginners at our class, I would really like to know the official interpretation of the instructions in Book 26. How would you expect this movement to be taught?

Answer

The RSCDS Manual says

“Bars 15–16

1st couple open out on bar 16, 1st man retaining his partner’s left hand in his right to assist

her to face her first corner.”

This particular dance has been danced in this way since it was published in 1972.  Earlier dances, like “The Stoorie Miller”  (Book 21) are usually danced without the assisted turn.