On Tue, Feb 7, 2012 at 3:41 PM, George Mercer <geopmercer(a)gmail.com> wrote:
dance, but I also insist that courtesy is also
essential. I have the same
issue with the nearly ubiquitous "Petronella clap." I don't usually do it
but don't care if others do. It does, however, remain a flourish.
Inevitably it is the first thing about a petronella twirl that newcomers
pick up and almost as inevitably it contributes to unnecessary confusion
for them.
I don't suggest one way or the other on clapping. The times I've
called "Cure for the Claps" I haven't mentioned the name of the dance,
but few or none clap for that as they want to get on with the dance
(swing follows twirl).
When there is time, like the frequent sequence of balance ring, twirl,
balance ring, I find the clap to be the great synchronizer. You hear
it and know where you're supposed to be.