Re: [Callers] Taking hands four

My approach is to use the "hands four" instruction along with "ones cross over" as cues to allow the dancers to gracefully transition from socializing to focusing on my voice for the walk-through/dance. I don't seem to have a problem with folks missing this instruction. In fact, I always say "please take hands four from the top" even if *everyone *in the hall has already taken hands four and crossed over. The dancers either think that someone has not yet done it or they subconsciously recognize that it's really a courtesy to them. I see my relationship with the dancers as a collaborative one. Instead of using the PA system to overpower the "buzz" in the room I use this instruction as a courtesy which allows the dancers to "finish their story" and gracefully transition into a listening mode. As such the instruction sets an example of consideration for others. I try to be as precise and efficient in my instructions and calls as I can be. I allow time for socializing and I don't ask the dancers to listen to me jawbone at the mike. Their part of the collaboration is to give me their undivided attention when I do speak. I never repeat this instruction. In fact I never repeat any call or instruction. I feel that the repetition of instructions will train the dancers that they can ignore my voice so I don't do it. Again, I almost never seem to have a problem with people missing instructions. If some dancers do miss an instruction I will rephrase the instruction using different words. As a dancer, when the caller repeats an instruction word-for-word, I feel that the caller is talking down to us. It's a bit insulting and I take it as an invitation to ignore the caller. So I try to make every word count. I think the dancers learn very quickly to appreciate this as a gesture of consideration and they respond by attending to my instructions more carefully when I do speak. Of course, this precludes "off the cuff" remarks and blabber at the mike. I see my role as a professional facilitator, not as an entertainer. Just a thought. Note: This commentary is only intended to apply to open public contra dance events. This calling approach might not be appropriate at other kinds of events. - Greg McKenzie ********************** On Mon, Nov 12, 2012 at 5:38 PM, Kalia Kliban <kalia(a)sbcglobal.net> wrote: