DST - Step Dancing

What is Scottish Step dancing and who can do it?

There are several styles within Scottish Step dancing. These vary from hard shoe dancing and Hebridean style dancing to the traditions within the RSCDS repertoire. Step dances can be simple or challenging; they range from low impact to high energy which means there are dances suitable for all comers.  They can be for the solo dancer, or two or three dancers. The music varies from traditional reels and jigs through to waltzes and other rhythms. The step dances taught over the years at RSCDS Summer School and in RSCDS Branch classes include traditional dances, like The Scottish Lilt and Blue Bonnets, which have been passed on by generations of dance teachers. Some of these dances cross over into the Highland repertoire. There are also dances, many of which are danced in a softer more balletic style, which have been reconstructed from notes and old manuscripts. In the last fifty years many new dances have been devised. As with all step dances the music and the movements fit wonderfully well together, which gives a great sense of satisfaction to the dancer.

Whether you are a beginner, or an experienced Scottish country dancer, the Step dance repertoire will have dances to fit your style and energy level. It is a great activity for improving posture, balance and accuracy of footwork. 

The RSCDS has published a mixture of these types of dances in The St Andrews Collection of Step Dances (34 dances) with accompanying music.

Fancy giving it a go? Find a selection of online classes here.  You can also have a go at dancing The Flora using the video below.