[Callers] Re: Need help fitting to a tune

Beaumont Rag is a tune that is incredibly versionated. Without knowing their particular version, no way to create a dance that fits. Another way to look at the problem ... If they really want to play the tune for dancing, there is no reason they cannot concoct a version of there own, using the grab-bag of pieces that are laying around, to create a square version. Next questions: Do they actually understand what a square version is? Do they have a feel for the kinds of things, in actual square tunes, that sometimes confuse the caller and/or dancers? Do you or they know a musician or caller that could help with that? If they feel like they'd like to use more pieces than can be accommodated by typical A-A-B-B construction, there are several possibilities. Think about A-A and B-B each being rectangles that form a square You could concoct a C-C part. Then play the tune, alternately, A-A B-B / A-A C-C. Also possible - perhaps a 16 bar rectangle that does not internally repeat [as chestnut Maggie Brown's Favorite does] Or A-B-C-D, [like chestnuts Opera Reel and Chorus Jig] If I were doing this project, I would be inclined to play the A-A rectangle alternating with other rectangles, beginning by alternating A-A B-B until the dancers get a grip, then throw in other alternations, but always the A-A in the lead. I have a batch of dances that fit variants of A-A-B-B-C, if they'd go for that. Could even be A-B-C-D-E. If anyone is interested, I'll supply those dances. Most are old contra-corners patterns, which deserve more circulation than they get - with some stretch limousine treatment. Roger Diggle -- Food for thought is no substitute for the real thing. -- Walt Kelly, cartoonist extraordinaire