Scottish Highland dancing is a celebration of the Scottish spirit. The dances are a spectacular combination of strength, agility, precision, movement, music, and costume. Unlike other dance mediums, Highland dances are generally danced solo and in competition. Dances are set to traditional Scottish music such as Strathspeys, Reels, Hornpipes, and Jigs all played by an accompanying bagpiper. The traditional dances are made up of intricate parts, called steps, with each dance usually consisting of 4 to 6 steps. Highland dancing is great fun and inclusive to anyone who thrills to the sound of bagpipes, not just those with a Scottish heritage.
Highland dancing was traditionally performed by men but is now performed by men and women. It is one of few arenas where men and women compete equally. In most competitions, the number of competing women far exceeds the number of men.
Highland dancing is a healthy workout for adults and for children. It is a great way to develop good coordination, posture and overall muscle tone, not to mentionaerobiccapacity and strength. One study showed that a half hour of dance was equal to a soccer match.
Ambitious new students develop self-discipline and confidence as they learn to tackle the physical demands and intricate movements of Highland dancing. Indeed, the tremendous strength, stamina, and technical precision that accomplished dancers exhibit on stage comes from years of independent training and collaboration with experienced teachers. In addition to perpetuating a great cultural tradition, Highland dancers appreciate the athletic challenges, competitive goals, and performance opportunities this art form/sport affords them. Another highlight of many dancers' careers is the opportunity to meet and become lifelong friends with other dancers from their home country and from abroad.
There are two styles of Highland dances: the traditional Highland dances and the graceful National dances.
Highland Dances
Highland Fling
Likely the oldest of the traditional dances of Scotland, the Highland Fling signifies victory following a battle. The warriors made this dance a feat of strength and agility by dancing on top of their upturned shields, each with a sharp spike of steel projecting from thecenter. Dancers learned early to move with great skill and dexterity. Others say the Highland Fling was inspired by the sight of a stag leaping on a hillside. The upraised arms and finger positions in the dance represent the stag’s antlers.
Sword Dance (Ghillie Callum)
Legend has it that the initial Ghillie Callum was created by Malcolm Canmore, a Celtic Prince who fought a battle in 1054. Triumphant, he crossed his opponent’s sword with his own and danced over them celebrating his victory. It is also said that the Highland warriors danced the Sword Dance prior to battle. If the warrior touched the swords, it was considered a bad omen, alluding to injury or death in battle.
Seann Triubhas (Old Trousers)
This dance originated as a political protest dating back to 1745 when the wearing of the kilt was an act of treason. Pronounced “shawn trews," this Gaelic phrase means “old trousers.” The beautiful, graceful steps reflect the restrictions imposed by the foreign trousers. The lively quick time in the dance recreates the Highlanders’ celebration of rediscovered freedom.
The Reels
The Reel O’Tulloch is said to have started in a churchyard on a cold, winter morning when the minister was late for his service. The parishioners resorted to stamping their feet, clapping their hands, and swinging each other by the arms to keep warm.
National Dances
The National dances are more modern than the Highland dances and were developed so that women could participate. The costume worn by women is called the Aboyne dress, named in honor of the Aboyne Highland Games in Scotland where women were forbidden to wear the traditional Highland outfit.
The National dances are much more rhythmic and balletic; however, they still require quick and precise movements. Some of the National dances include the Scottish Lilt, Village Maid, Blue Bonnets, and Scotch Measure. Several other National dances, such as The Highland Laddie, and Wilt Thou Go to the Barracks, Johnny?, are performed in the kilt since they were originally men’s dances. Men, of course, also perform all of the National dances, but they wear the traditional Highland outfit.
Irish Jig
