<snip

(such as F&B, allemande, promenade, star, chain, right and left, circle, shoulders round, hey, and maybe several more)

I'll bite that bullet: callers generally shouldn't be calling a dolphin hey at a regular evening dance.

Bravo, Michael! (I’ve bolded, below, the point on which I want to agree wholeheartedly.) I’ve believed this for years, and had no way of knowing what percentage of active contra callers agreed. I dare to hope that, as Michael is known for writing and advocating difficult sequences, his opinion will carry added weight. Over the decades, I’ve seen the number of contra “basics” increase dramatically – from about 12 in the 1960s, when many groups got started, to at least 36 today. I’ve worried that the modern contra world has been going down the same path as modern “western” squares did. There’s always a gap between what a first-timer can grasp in one night and what a dancer needs to know to be comfortable at a dance series. But if “basics” are continually added, the gap gets ever wider, until a lesson or a series of lessons is needed. Western squares started with 6 lessons in the late 1940s; currently the Plus program (the prevailing club level in most parts of the US) contains 97 “basics” and (coincidentally) is recommended to be taught in 97 hours, or about 50 lessons. (Most clubs insist that their callers take less time, which results in new dancers not learning the calls adequately.) We contra and trad square callers are nowhere near the excesses of MWSD. But even 36 “basics” are too many for an activity that supposedly anyone can join in without lessons. Some sequences – maybe even some moves – should be reserved for workshops. I’m glad to see an influential modern contra caller speaking out on this. Tony Parkes Billerica, Mass. www.hands4.com New book! Square Dance Calling: An Old Art for a New Century (available now) *From:* Michael Fuerst via Contra Callers < contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net&gt; *Sent:* Thursday, September 14, 2023 4:11 AM *To:* Helle Hill &lt;hellehill(a)yahoo.com&gt; *Cc:* Shared Weight Contra Callers &lt;contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net&gt; *Subject:* [Callers] Re: New Terminology Question Jeff's suggestion of "facing star" works perfectly, and merits becoming the standard term used for discussions about and written descriptions of dances. However, *such occasionally used figures must always be explained during walk-throughs*, so the caller can designate, for the duration of the dance, any appropriate name. (I think I have used "funny" or "silly" star in the past.) The point being that *dancers should need to understand the names of a dozen or so basic figures* (such as F&B, allemande, promenade, star, chain, right and left, circle, shoulders round, hey, and maybe several more) and that callers should need only basic figures to teach any dance. On Wed, Sep 13, 2023 at 8:58 PM Helle Hill via Contra Callers < contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net&gt; wrote: With all the changes to the "old" terminology, I am wondering what a "Gypsy Star" is now called. Thank you. Helle Hill _______________________________________________ Contra Callers mailing list -- contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net To unsubscribe send an email to contracallers-leave(a)lists.sharedweight.net

We in Western New York, well some of us, just attended a callers' workshop. The focus was specifically on the "lesson", a term I avoid since we advertise "no lesson needed". The attendees each gave figures that should be taught during the 15 - 30 min. "lesson".  They ranged from 4 - 15 + moves. I was actually surprised and dismayed at how much information (and talking at) is shared by some. I think that the KISS idea is applicable here. I attend and absorb the George Marshall introductory sessions as often as possible and use his as my model. Giving weight in circle, alemande, do-si-do, star, circle, right & left through (to get courtsey turn), swing and now I have added positions of Lark & Robin. There are techniques that are not outlined here such as how I teach partnering & progression that are incorporated within the others. Much of what some wanted to teach IMHO belongs in the dance line where it actually makes sense. I also, when there are beginners in the lines, actually teach a new harder move during the walk through, much I must say to the chagrin of experienced dancers. My belief is that those that don't know, learn, those that do get to help which is what they want to do and those that think they know, may get better. So now having used many words let's dance! 😁 Mary Collins On Thu, Sep 14, 2023, 11:14 AM Tony Parkes via Contra Callers &lt;contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net&gt; wrote: Bravo, Michael! (I’ve bolded, below, the point on which I want to agree wholeheartedly.) I’ve believed this for years, and had no way of knowing what percentage of active contra callers agreed. I dare to hope that, as Michael is known for writing and advocating difficult sequences, his opinion will carry added weight. Over the decades, I’ve seen the number of contra “basics” increase dramatically – from about 12 in the 1960s, when many groups got started, to at least 36 today. I’ve worried that the modern contra world has been going down the same path as modern “western” squares did. There’s always a gap between what a first-timer can grasp in one night and what a dancer needs to know to be comfortable at a dance series. But if “basics” are continually added, the gap gets ever wider, until a lesson or a series of lessons is needed. Western squares started with 6 lessons in the late 1940s; currently the Plus program (the prevailing club level in most parts of the US) contains 97 “basics” and (coincidentally) is recommended to be taught in 97 hours, or about 50 lessons. (Most clubs insist that their callers take less time, which results in new dancers not learning the calls adequately.) We contra and trad square callers are nowhere near the excesses of MWSD. But even 36 “basics” are too many for an activity that supposedly anyone can join in without lessons. Some sequences – maybe even some moves – should be reserved for workshops. I’m glad to see an influential modern contra caller speaking out on this. Tony Parkes Billerica, Mass. www.hands4.com <http://www.hands4.com/> New book! Square Dance Calling: An Old Art for a New Century (available now) *From:* Michael Fuerst via Contra Callers &lt;contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net&gt; *Sent:* Thursday, September 14, 2023 4:11 AM *To:* Helle Hill &lt;hellehill(a)yahoo.com&gt; *Cc:* Shared Weight Contra Callers &lt;contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net&gt; *Subject:* [Callers] Re: New Terminology Question Jeff's suggestion of "facing star" works perfectly, and merits becoming the standard term used for discussions about and written descriptions of dances. However, *such occasionally used figures must always be explained during walk-throughs*, so the caller can designate, for the duration of the dance, any appropriate name. (I think I have used "funny" or "silly" star in the past.) The point being that *dancers should need to understand the names of a dozen or so basic figures* (such as F&B, allemande, promenade, star, chain, right and left, circle, shoulders round, hey, and maybe several more) and that callers should need only  basic figures to teach any dance. On Wed, Sep 13, 2023 at 8:58 PM Helle Hill via Contra Callers &lt;contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net&gt; wrote: With all the changes to the "old" terminology, I am wondering what a "Gypsy Star" is now called. Thank you. Helle Hill _______________________________________________ Contra Callers mailing list -- contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net To unsubscribe send an email to contracallers-leave(a)lists.sharedweight.net _______________________________________________ Contra Callers mailing list --contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net To unsubscribe send an email tocontracallers-leave(a)lists.sharedweight.net

One I like to do: A1 Circle Left 1X / Neighbor do-si-do A2 Ladies do-si-do / gents / do-si-do B1 Long Lines / 1s swing (or do-si-do) B2 Face down 1s in center - down the hall /  back up 1s arch shoot 2s thru to new N On Monday, September 25, 2023 at 01:32:40 PM CDT, Michael Barraclough via Contra Callers &lt;contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net&gt; wrote: It doesn't have a name, but the very first dance I do in a contra lesson (after a few basics in a big circle) is: A1 1-4    Circle left A1 5-8    Circle right A2 1-4    Balance the ring twice A2 5-8    All move forwards (couples facing the band arching over) Michael Barraclough (Manchester, UK) On 25/09/2023 09:13, Tepfer, Seth via Contra Callers wrote: Hello hive mind. What are the absolute easiest duple minor dances you know? I know: Title: *Family Contra* Author: Sherry Nevins A1: Balance 2x; Circle left (8) A2: Balance 2x; Circle right (8) B1: Neighbor DSD (8); Partner DSD (8) B2: As couple, neighbor DSD 1.5 (16) What other dances do you have that are duple minor and just as easy to teach to people who have never danced before? No swing needed! Thanks Seth Tepfer, MBA, CSM, PMP (he, him, his) Senior IT Manager, Emory Primate Center <https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://outlook.office.com/bookwithme/user/fcd3f5d71da848759228584d1a49babd@emory.edu?anonymous&ep=signature__;!!DZ3fjg!82-lANOBNlB0mByd2kP3yO4XC4ikEh-W7LdqtTVkS-MqJKyX0lbb5xP1C1p3Rca77TR_5rglYdk8um4HcHW0A12BDwXMjgpll4Kw$> Book time to meet with me <https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://outlook.office.com/bookwithme/user/fcd3f5d71da848759228584d1a49babd@emory.edu?anonymous&ep=signature__;!!DZ3fjg!82-lANOBNlB0mByd2kP3yO4XC4ikEh-W7LdqtTVkS-MqJKyX0lbb5xP1C1p3Rca77TR_5rglYdk8um4HcHW0A12BDwXMjgpll4Kw$> _______________________________________________ Contra Callers mailing list --contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net <mailto:contracallers@lists.sharedweight.net> To unsubscribe send an email tocontracallers-leave(a)lists.sharedweight.net <mailto:contracallers-leave@lists.sharedweight.net> _______________________________________________ Contra Callers mailing list -- contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net <mailto:contracallers@lists.sharedweight.net> To unsubscribe send an email to contracallers-leave(a)lists.sharedweight.net <mailto:contracallers-leave@lists.sharedweight.net> _______________________________________________ Contra Callers mailing list -- contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net To unsubscribe send an email to contracallers-leave(a)lists.sharedweight.net

Thanks for this thread!  My group is tired of me bailing out to a small collection of trivial contras (Airpants, Midwest Folklore...). How about the easiest dance *that experienced dancers don't mind dancing*? I have always disliked the "full washing machine" of circle left, circle right, star right, star left.  Even a half-wash makes my shoulders sag, inwardly.  Of course, I will try to do them with a smile and encourage both the new dancers and the caller.  But, surely we can make it a little more interesting without losing the newbies.  Airpants and Midwest Folklore do, though they involve swings. Elbow or crossed-hand swings are fine for this and don't need to be taught outside of a walkthrough. If I'm using these dances in a workshop, I do tell the experienced dancers not to teach the ballroom swing, we'll get to that in a minute.  Otherwise, they all try. --jh-- On Mon, Sep 25, 2023 at 7:27 PM Katherine Kitching via Contra Callers &lt;contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net&gt; wrote: > Here are a couple more that I wrote, that I called the other night and went very well. > (again, I haven't searched to see if they exist already) > > these all build on the skills we did in my "very simple contra" in the sicilian formation, that I outlined in a previous message. > > 1. "Off they go" > > - Circle left > - Circle right > - LLFB > - (still holding hands) - walk 4 steps left then 4 steps right (or call it a giant oval left then right if you prefer) > > - partner do si do > - neighbour left hand turn (allemande) > - partner 2 hand balance twice (I suggest the convention of veering slightly to the left the first balance, and slightly to the right on the second, for interest) > - holding inside hands with your partner facing the other couple, veer on a forward right diagonal to pass the other couple, then on a forward left diagonal to meet the next couple > > > 2. "first out of place dance" (at a brisk pace) > people found this very fun!! > > - circle left > - circle right > - partner do si do > - neighbour 2 hand balance once, and baby turn (ie switch places, by circling while holding 2 hands in the same direction you would in a 2 hand turn or swing - can also say - switch places with your neighbour, with the ravens going on the inside) > > - LLFB > - LLF, balance partner by the right one time and pull by (to switch places w partner) > - LLFB > - LLF, just pull by the right (no balance) - give a little nod and stomp to your old group, turn to face the new > > 3. " first down the hall dance" > > -1's split the 2's and all walk down the hall in line of 4, turn alone > - come on back, bend line > - circle left > - circle right > > - partner left shoulder round > - neighbour right hand turn (allemande) > - all circle left again > - left hand star to new group > > > 4. "first swing (or 2 hand turn) dance" > > - N bal and 2 hand turn (or swing, depending on level of dancers), for 16 > - LLFB > - Partner left shoulder round > > - Neighbour right shoulder round > - circle left > - circle right > - balance the circle one time, 2 hand balance your partner one time, turn to face new group > > There were 2 more dances in my sequence after this, but they wouldn't qualify as super easy.  (though probably still easier than most of you call!! :) ) > > - Kat k > in Hfx, NS, CA > _______________________________________________ > Contra Callers mailing list -- contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net > To unsubscribe send an email to contracallers-leave(a)lists.sharedweight.net

“- LLFB, LLF, balance pull by:, LLFB, LLF, balance pull by again” Will someone please explain the timing of this sequence? I get 8 steps for LLFB, 4 for LLF, 4 for a balance, and 4 for a pull by, adding up to 20; but I assume it’s intended to be done in 16. (I’m assuming that “turn to face in” is done as part of the pull by – no problem there.) Is there actually no LLF apart from the balance? Tony Parkes Billerica, Mass. www.hands4.com[http://www.hands4.com/] New book! Square Dance Calling: An Old Art for a New Century (available now) *From:* Katherine Kitching via Contra Callers &lt;contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net&gt; *Sent:* Wednesday, September 27, 2023 9:33 AM *To:* Joe Harrington &lt;contradancerjoe(a)gmail.com&gt; *Cc:* contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net *Subject:* [Callers] Re: Most-Easiest Duple Minors in existence lol "full washing machine" - I hadn't heard that before! I agree on avoiding the full one as much as possible - but I quite like just a circle-left-circle-right - brings the group together for some smiles and allows for fancy footwork for those who want to throw in a little something extra. But it may be interesting to ask the group to compile a list of beginner-friendly figures, beyond the very basic ones like allemandes and do si dos, that could be used to put together some dances of the type that you (and I, always!!) are seeking? My criteria would be: - does not take anyone out of home place (or takes them out temporarily but puts them back again, such as pulling by your partner across the set, but then pulling by again within the next 1 or 2 moves). - doesn't involve anything that is known to cause confusion for total beginners, such as courtesy turns or heys. _Here are some that I like:_ - do si do as couples - LLFB, LLF, balance pull by:, LLFB, LLF, balance pull by again - take 4 steps left then 4 steps right, around the oval - turn and walk individually around the oval for 8, then back for 8 - balance and spin the star (as per Louise S) - balance the ring, then 2 hand balance your partner - holding hands, veer right then left with your partner to progress - what else?? :) Sep 27, 2023 12:44:51 AM Joe Harrington &lt;contradancerjoe(a)gmail.com&gt;om>: Thanks for this thread!  My group is tired of me bailing out to a small collection of trivial contras (Airpants, Midwest Folklore...). How about the easiest dance *that experienced dancers don't mind dancing*? I have always disliked the "full washing machine" of circle left, circle right, star right, star left.  Even a half-wash makes my shoulders sag, inwardly.  Of course, I will try to do them with a smile and encourage both the new dancers and the caller.  But, surely we can make it a little more interesting without losing the newbies.  Airpants and Midwest Folklore do, though they involve swings. Elbow or crossed-hand swings are fine for this and don't need to be taught outside of a walkthrough. If I'm using these dances in a workshop, I do tell the experienced dancers not to teach the ballroom swing, we'll get to that in a minute.  Otherwise, they all try. --jh-- On Mon, Sep 25, 2023 at 7:27 PM Katherine Kitching via Contra Callers &lt;contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net&gt; wrote: Here are a couple more that I wrote, that I called the other night and went very well. (again, I haven't searched to see if they exist already) these all build on the skills we did in my "very simple contra" in the sicilian formation, that I outlined in a previous message. 1. "Off they go" - Circle left - Circle right - LLFB - (still holding hands) - walk 4 steps left then 4 steps right (or call it a giant oval left then right if you prefer) - partner do si do - neighbour left hand turn (allemande) - partner 2 hand balance twice (I suggest the convention of veering slightly to the left the first balance, and slightly to the right on the second, for interest) - holding inside hands with your partner facing the other couple, veer on a forward right diagonal to pass the other couple, then on a forward left diagonal to meet the next couple 2. "first out of place dance" (at a brisk pace) people found this very fun!! - circle left - circle right - partner do si do - neighbour 2 hand balance once, and baby turn (ie switch places, by circling while holding 2 hands in the same direction you would in a 2 hand turn or swing - can also say - switch places with your neighbour, with the ravens going on the inside) - LLFB - LLF, balance partner by the right one time and pull by (to switch places w partner) - LLFB - LLF, just pull by the right (no balance) - give a little nod and stomp to your old group, turn to face the new 3. " first down the hall dance" -1's split the 2's and all walk down the hall in line of 4, turn alone - come on back, bend line - circle left - circle right - partner left shoulder round - neighbour right hand turn (allemande) - all circle left again - left hand star to new group 4. "first swing (or 2 hand turn) dance" - N bal and 2 hand turn (or swing, depending on level of dancers), for 16 - LLFB - Partner left shoulder round - Neighbour right shoulder round - circle left - circle right - balance the circle one time, 2 hand balance your partner one time, turn to face new group There were 2 more dances in my sequence after this, but they wouldn't qualify as super easy.  (though probably still easier than most of you call!! :) ) - Kat k in Hfx, NS, CA _______________________________________________ Contra Callers mailing list -- contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net To unsubscribe send an email to contracallers-leave(a)lists.sharedweight.net

Ah, thanks. Different strokes for different folks. I don’t think I could bring myself to ask for a balance on 3-4-5-6 of an 8-count phrase. Tony Parkes Billerica, Mass. www.hands4.com New book! Square Dance Calling: An Old Art for a New Century (available now) *From:* Katherine Kitching &lt;kat(a)outdooractive.ca&gt; *Sent:* Wednesday, September 27, 2023 9:46 AM *To:* Tony Parkes &lt;tony(a)hands4.com&gt; *Cc:* Shared Weight Contra Callers &lt;contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net&gt; *Subject:* Re: [Callers] Re: Most-Easiest Duple Minors in existence haha I was unsure it would work when I called it for the first time the other night - but it worked great!! Previously I had done LLFB, LLF and pull by, LLFB, LLF and pull by-- but my dancers did it so fast and energetically there was a super long and awkward pause after they pulled by and turned to face their partner again. the secret is, it only takes them 2 counts to get close enough to rt-hand balance. so it's 1-2 (walk), 1-2-3-4 (balance), and 1-2 pass by and turn - that part is admittedly fast, but they enjoyed the challenge of it and it really livened up this beginner-oriented dance. Sep 27, 2023 10:40:00 AM Tony Parkes via Contra Callers < contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net&gt;gt;: “- LLFB, LLF, balance pull by:, LLFB, LLF, balance pull by again” Will someone please explain the timing of this sequence? I get 8 steps for LLFB, 4 for LLF, 4 for a balance, and 4 for a pull by, adding up to 20; but I assume it’s intended to be done in 16. (I’m assuming that “turn to face in” is done as part of the pull by – no problem there.) Is there actually no LLF apart from the balance? Tony Parkes Billerica, Mass. www.hands4.com New book! Square Dance Calling: An Old Art for a New Century (available now) *From:* Katherine Kitching via Contra Callers < contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net&gt; *Sent:* Wednesday, September 27, 2023 9:33 AM *To:* Joe Harrington &lt;contradancerjoe(a)gmail.com&gt; *Cc:* contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net *Subject:* [Callers] Re: Most-Easiest Duple Minors in existence lol "full washing machine" - I hadn't heard that before! I agree on avoiding the full one as much as possible - but I quite like just a circle-left-circle-right - brings the group together for some smiles and allows for fancy footwork for those who want to throw in a little something extra. But it may be interesting to ask the group to compile a list of beginner-friendly figures, beyond the very basic ones like allemandes and do si dos, that could be used to put together some dances of the type that you (and I, always!!) are seeking? My criteria would be: - does not take anyone out of home place (or takes them out temporarily but puts them back again, such as pulling by your partner across the set, but then pulling by again within the next 1 or 2 moves). - doesn't involve anything that is known to cause confusion for total beginners, such as courtesy turns or heys. *Here are some that I like:* - do si do as couples - LLFB, LLF, balance pull by:, LLFB, LLF, balance pull by again - take 4 steps left then 4 steps right, around the oval - turn and walk individually around the oval for 8, then back for 8 - balance and spin the star (as per Louise S) - balance the ring, then 2 hand balance your partner - holding hands, veer right then left with your partner to progress - what else?? :) Sep 27, 2023 12:44:51 AM Joe Harrington &lt;contradancerjoe(a)gmail.com&gt;om>: Thanks for this thread! My group is tired of me bailing out to a small collection of trivial contras (Airpants, Midwest Folklore...). How about the easiest dance *that experienced dancers don't mind dancing*? I have always disliked the "full washing machine" of circle left, circle right, star right, star left. Even a half-wash makes my shoulders sag, inwardly. Of course, I will try to do them with a smile and encourage both the new dancers and the caller. But, surely we can make it a little more interesting without losing the newbies. Airpants and Midwest Folklore do, though they involve swings. Elbow or crossed-hand swings are fine for this and don't need to be taught outside of a walkthrough. If I'm using these dances in a workshop, I do tell the experienced dancers not to teach the ballroom swing, we'll get to that in a minute. Otherwise, they all try. --jh-- On Mon, Sep 25, 2023 at 7:27 PM Katherine Kitching via Contra Callers < contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net&gt; wrote: Here are a couple more that I wrote, that I called the other night and went very well. (again, I haven't searched to see if they exist already) these all build on the skills we did in my "very simple contra" in the sicilian formation, that I outlined in a previous message. 1. "Off they go" - Circle left - Circle right - LLFB - (still holding hands) - walk 4 steps left then 4 steps right (or call it a giant oval left then right if you prefer) - partner do si do - neighbour left hand turn (allemande) - partner 2 hand balance twice (I suggest the convention of veering slightly to the left the first balance, and slightly to the right on the second, for interest) - holding inside hands with your partner facing the other couple, veer on a forward right diagonal to pass the other couple, then on a forward left diagonal to meet the next couple 2. "first out of place dance" (at a brisk pace) people found this very fun!! - circle left - circle right - partner do si do - neighbour 2 hand balance once, and baby turn (ie switch places, by circling while holding 2 hands in the same direction you would in a 2 hand turn or swing - can also say - switch places with your neighbour, with the ravens going on the inside) - LLFB - LLF, balance partner by the right one time and pull by (to switch places w partner) - LLFB - LLF, just pull by the right (no balance) - give a little nod and stomp to your old group, turn to face the new 3. " first down the hall dance" -1's split the 2's and all walk down the hall in line of 4, turn alone - come on back, bend line - circle left - circle right - partner left shoulder round - neighbour right hand turn (allemande) - all circle left again - left hand star to new group 4. "first swing (or 2 hand turn) dance" - N bal and 2 hand turn (or swing, depending on level of dancers), for 16 - LLFB - Partner left shoulder round - Neighbour right shoulder round - circle left - circle right - balance the circle one time, 2 hand balance your partner one time, turn to face new group There were 2 more dances in my sequence after this, but they wouldn't qualify as super easy. (though probably still easier than most of you call!! :) ) - Kat k in Hfx, NS, CA _______________________________________________ Contra Callers mailing list -- contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net To unsubscribe send an email to contracallers-leave(a)lists.sharedweight.net _______________________________________________ Contra Callers mailing list -- contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net To unsubscribe send an email to contracallers-leave(a)lists.sharedweight.net

haha I was unsure it would work when I called it for the first time the other night - but it worked great!! Previously I had done LLFB, LLF and pull by, LLFB, LLF and pull by-- but my dancers did it so fast and energetically there was a super long and awkward pause after they pulled by and turned to face their partner again. the secret is, it only takes them 2 counts to get close enough to rt-hand balance. so it's 1-2 (walk), 1-2-3-4 (balance), and 1-2 pass by and turn - that part is admittedly fast, but they enjoyed the challenge of it and it really livened up this beginner-oriented dance. Sep 27, 2023 10:40:00 AM Tony Parkes via Contra Callers < contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net&gt;gt;: “- LLFB, LLF, balance pull by:, LLFB, LLF, balance pull by again” Will someone please explain the timing of this sequence? I get 8 steps for LLFB, 4 for LLF, 4 for a balance, and 4 for a pull by, adding up to 20; but I assume it’s intended to be done in 16. (I’m assuming that “turn to face in” is done as part of the pull by – no problem there.) Is there actually no LLF apart from the balance? Tony Parkes Billerica, Mass. www.hands4.com New book! Square Dance Calling: An Old Art for a New Century (available now) *From:* Katherine Kitching via Contra Callers < contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net&gt; *Sent:* Wednesday, September 27, 2023 9:33 AM *To:* Joe Harrington &lt;contradancerjoe(a)gmail.com&gt; *Cc:* contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net *Subject:* [Callers] Re: Most-Easiest Duple Minors in existence lol "full washing machine" - I hadn't heard that before! I agree on avoiding the full one as much as possible - but I quite like just a circle-left-circle-right - brings the group together for some smiles and allows for fancy footwork for those who want to throw in a little something extra. But it may be interesting to ask the group to compile a list of beginner-friendly figures, beyond the very basic ones like allemandes and do si dos, that could be used to put together some dances of the type that you (and I, always!!) are seeking? My criteria would be: - does not take anyone out of home place (or takes them out temporarily but puts them back again, such as pulling by your partner across the set, but then pulling by again within the next 1 or 2 moves). - doesn't involve anything that is known to cause confusion for total beginners, such as courtesy turns or heys. *Here are some that I like:* - do si do as couples - LLFB, LLF, balance pull by:, LLFB, LLF, balance pull by again - take 4 steps left then 4 steps right, around the oval - turn and walk individually around the oval for 8, then back for 8 - balance and spin the star (as per Louise S) - balance the ring, then 2 hand balance your partner - holding hands, veer right then left with your partner to progress - what else?? :) Sep 27, 2023 12:44:51 AM Joe Harrington &lt;contradancerjoe(a)gmail.com&gt;om>: Thanks for this thread! My group is tired of me bailing out to a small collection of trivial contras (Airpants, Midwest Folklore...). How about the easiest dance *that experienced dancers don't mind dancing*? I have always disliked the "full washing machine" of circle left, circle right, star right, star left. Even a half-wash makes my shoulders sag, inwardly. Of course, I will try to do them with a smile and encourage both the new dancers and the caller. But, surely we can make it a little more interesting without losing the newbies. Airpants and Midwest Folklore do, though they involve swings. Elbow or crossed-hand swings are fine for this and don't need to be taught outside of a walkthrough. If I'm using these dances in a workshop, I do tell the experienced dancers not to teach the ballroom swing, we'll get to that in a minute. Otherwise, they all try. --jh-- On Mon, Sep 25, 2023 at 7:27 PM Katherine Kitching via Contra Callers < contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net&gt; wrote: Here are a couple more that I wrote, that I called the other night and went very well. (again, I haven't searched to see if they exist already) these all build on the skills we did in my "very simple contra" in the sicilian formation, that I outlined in a previous message. 1. "Off they go" - Circle left - Circle right - LLFB - (still holding hands) - walk 4 steps left then 4 steps right (or call it a giant oval left then right if you prefer) - partner do si do - neighbour left hand turn (allemande) - partner 2 hand balance twice (I suggest the convention of veering slightly to the left the first balance, and slightly to the right on the second, for interest) - holding inside hands with your partner facing the other couple, veer on a forward right diagonal to pass the other couple, then on a forward left diagonal to meet the next couple 2. "first out of place dance" (at a brisk pace) people found this very fun!! - circle left - circle right - partner do si do - neighbour 2 hand balance once, and baby turn (ie switch places, by circling while holding 2 hands in the same direction you would in a 2 hand turn or swing - can also say - switch places with your neighbour, with the ravens going on the inside) - LLFB - LLF, balance partner by the right one time and pull by (to switch places w partner) - LLFB - LLF, just pull by the right (no balance) - give a little nod and stomp to your old group, turn to face the new 3. " first down the hall dance" -1's split the 2's and all walk down the hall in line of 4, turn alone - come on back, bend line - circle left - circle right - partner left shoulder round - neighbour right hand turn (allemande) - all circle left again - left hand star to new group 4. "first swing (or 2 hand turn) dance" - N bal and 2 hand turn (or swing, depending on level of dancers), for 16 - LLFB - Partner left shoulder round - Neighbour right shoulder round - circle left - circle right - balance the circle one time, 2 hand balance your partner one time, turn to face new group There were 2 more dances in my sequence after this, but they wouldn't qualify as super easy. (though probably still easier than most of you call!! :) ) - Kat k in Hfx, NS, CA _______________________________________________ Contra Callers mailing list -- contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net To unsubscribe send an email to contracallers-leave(a)lists.sharedweight.net _______________________________________________ Contra Callers mailing list -- contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net To unsubscribe send an email to contracallers-leave(a)lists.sharedweight.net

On Sep 15, 2023, at 7:14 AM, Mary Collins via Contra Callers &lt;contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net&gt; wrote: We in Western New York, well some of us, just attended a callers' workshop. The focus was specifically on the "lesson", a term I avoid since we advertise "no lesson needed". The attendees each gave figures that should be taught during the 15 - 30 min. "lesson". They ranged from 4 - 15 + moves. I was actually surprised and dismayed at how much information (and talking at) is shared by some. I think that the KISS idea is applicable here. I attend and absorb the George Marshall introductory sessions as often as possible and use his as my model. Giving weight in circle, alemande, do-si-do, star, circle, right & left through (to get courtsey turn), swing and now I have added positions of Lark & Robin. There are techniques that are not outlined here such as how I teach partnering & progression that are incorporated within the others. Much of what some wanted to teach IMHO belongs in the dance line where it actually makes sense. I also, when there are beginners in the lines, actually teach a new harder move during the walk through, much I must say to the chagrin of experienced dancers. My belief is that those that don't know, learn, those that do get to help which is what they want to do and those that think they know, may get better. So now having used many words let's dance! 😁 Mary Collins On Thu, Sep 14, 2023, 11:14 AM Tony Parkes via Contra Callers &lt;contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net <mailto:contracallers@lists.sharedweight.net>> wrote: Bravo, Michael! (I’ve bolded, below, the point on which I want to agree wholeheartedly.) I’ve believed this for years, and had no way of knowing what percentage of active contra callers agreed. I dare to hope that, as Michael is known for writing and advocating difficult sequences, his opinion will carry added weight. Over the decades, I’ve seen the number of contra “basics” increase dramatically – from about 12 in the 1960s, when many groups got started, to at least 36 today. I’ve worried that the modern contra world has been going down the same path as modern “western” squares did. There’s always a gap between what a first-timer can grasp in one night and what a dancer needs to know to be comfortable at a dance series. But if “basics” are continually added, the gap gets ever wider, until a lesson or a series of lessons is needed. Western squares started with 6 lessons in the late 1940s; currently the Plus program (the prevailing club level in most parts of the US) contains 97 “basics” and (coincidentally) is recommended to be taught in 97 hours, or about 50 lessons. (Most clubs insist that their callers take less time, which results in new dancers not learning the calls adequately.) We contra and trad square callers are nowhere near the excesses of MWSD. But even 36 “basics” are too many for an activity that supposedly anyone can join in without lessons. Some sequences – maybe even some moves – should be reserved for workshops. I’m glad to see an influential modern contra caller speaking out on this.

I need to augment my list slightly: F&B, allemande, promenade, star, chain, right and left, circle, shoulders round, hey, swing, balance. A crowd comfortable with all these should be capable of learning one or two less generic figures (appropriate for the crowd's collective skill level) a caller might wish to utilize. What additional figures would you add to my list to create your list of 36? <https://www.avast.com/sig-email?utm_medium=email&utm_source=link&utm_campaign=sig-email&utm_content=webmail> Virus-free.www.avast.com <https://www.avast.com/sig-email?utm_medium=email&utm_source=link&utm_campaign=sig-email&utm_content=webmail> <#m_-8029173079282924416_m_-4865439494619217183_DAB4FAD8-2DD7-40BB-A1B8-4E2AA1F9FDF2> On Thu, Sep 14, 2023 at 10:14 AM Tony Parkes via Contra Callers < contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net&gt; wrote: _______________________________________________ Contra Callers mailing list -- contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net To unsubscribe send an email to contracallers-leave(a)lists.sharedweight.net

I’ve mislaid my list of about 36 terms, but it was similar to Jeff’s. (I note that “turn alone” appears twice… but who’s counting?) The big question for me is not how many terms there should be, or whether it’s a good idea to invent new ones; it’s “Which terms should be considered truly basic, and which should be taught every time they appear?” This is similar to Jeff’s “What would you be able to include in a no-walkthrough dance?” Let me make an analogy with squares. In the traditional square dance world, there are two major strains of figures: (1) those made up of basic building blocks, like chains and R&L throughs; their ancestry can be traced back to 19th-century quadrilles and 18th-century cotillions; (2) unique figures, mainly visiting-couple, such as Bird in the Cage, Duck for the Oyster, and Chase the Rabbit; no one seems to know just where they came from, though there are lots of theories. A traditional (pre-revival) dance community would know a limited number of unique figures and presumably be able to dance them at the caller’s will, but in most contexts nowadays a unique figure must be taught; the dancers don’t expect to encounter it in other dances. In the modern contra world, the normal procedure is to walk each dance through (the exceptions, such as medleys and no-walkthrough dances, are clearly labeled). This means that almost any move can be used if the caller knows how to teach it quickly and effectively. Still, there seems to be a trend toward expecting dancers to know, by heart, moves that used to be unique to one dance: Petronella, Rory O’More, Mad Robin. I note that at least one dance on Jeff’s medley page calls for a Petronella balance and spin followed immediately by a mirror version of same. This trend is much slower than the proliferation of “basics” in modern square dancing during the 1960s and 1970s, but it still makes me wonder whether we can hold onto a short list of what a newcomer is expected to assimilate in order to keep coming to dances (i.e. without being actively discouraged by experienced dancers). Tony Parkes Billerica, Mass. www.hands4.com New book! Square Dance Calling: An Old Art for a New Century (available now) *From:* Jeff Kaufman &lt;jeff(a)alum.swarthmore.edu&gt; *Sent:* Saturday, September 16, 2023 7:44 AM *To:* Michael Fuerst &lt;sjapartments(a)gmail.com&gt; *Cc:* Tony Parkes &lt;tony(a)hands4.com&gt;om>; Shared Weight Contra Callers < contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net&gt; *Subject:* Re: [Callers] Re: New Terminology Question In addition to "F&B, allemande, promenade, star, chain, right and left, circle, shoulders round, hey, swing, balance", other figures I'd definitely count include dosido, pull by, California twirl, box the gnat, down the hall, Petronella, roll away, pass through, give and take, walk/step forward/back/left/right, turn alone, and courtesy turn, which makes 23. Others I'd probably count include: mad robin, contra corners, Rory O'Moore, pass through to an ocean wave, square through, cross trail, cast off, half figure eight, dosido as couples, pousette, star promenade + butterfly whirl, orbit, seesaw, zig-zag, on the diagonal chain/hey/R&L, and turn alone, which makes 39. Others I wouldn't count include right hand high left hand low, basket swing, swinging star, robin round two lark cut through, sashay, hey for three, dolphin hey, ricochet, box circulate, star through, and swat the flea. (Additions/corrections welcome!) One way to think about this is, what would you be able to include in a no walkthrough dance for experienced dancers? What could you see someone including in a dance early in the evening so they could use it in a harder dance later in the evening (since you wouldn't do that with a one-off/novelty figure)? For reference, here are some historical NEFFA medleys: https://www.jefftk.com/contras/dances/medlies (Not trying to take position either way on whether this expansion basics has been a good thing) Jeff On Sat, Sep 16, 2023, 4:22 AM Michael Fuerst via Contra Callers < contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net&gt; wrote: I need to augment my list slightly: F&B, allemande, promenade, star, chain, right and left, circle, shoulders round, hey, swing, balance. A crowd comfortable with all these should be capable of learning one or two less generic figures (appropriate for the crowd's collective skill level) a caller might wish to utilize. What additional figures would you add to my list to create your list of 36? <https://www.avast.com/sig-email?utm_medium=email&utm_source=link&utm_campaign=sig-email&utm_content=webmail> Virus-free.www.avast.com <https://www.avast.com/sig-email?utm_medium=email&utm_source=link&utm_campaign=sig-email&utm_content=webmail> On Thu, Sep 14, 2023 at 10:14 AM Tony Parkes via Contra Callers < contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net&gt; wrote: Bravo, Michael! (I’ve bolded, below, the point on which I want to agree wholeheartedly.) I’ve believed this for years, and had no way of knowing what percentage of active contra callers agreed. I dare to hope that, as Michael is known for writing and advocating difficult sequences, his opinion will carry added weight. Over the decades, I’ve seen the number of contra “basics” increase dramatically – from about 12 in the 1960s, when many groups got started, to at least 36 today. I’ve worried that the modern contra world has been going down the same path as modern “western” squares did. There’s always a gap between what a first-timer can grasp in one night and what a dancer needs to know to be comfortable at a dance series. But if “basics” are continually added, the gap gets ever wider, until a lesson or a series of lessons is needed. Western squares started with 6 lessons in the late 1940s; currently the Plus program (the prevailing club level in most parts of the US) contains 97 “basics” and (coincidentally) is recommended to be taught in 97 hours, or about 50 lessons. (Most clubs insist that their callers take less time, which results in new dancers not learning the calls adequately.) We contra and trad square callers are nowhere near the excesses of MWSD. But even 36 “basics” are too many for an activity that supposedly anyone can join in without lessons. Some sequences – maybe even some moves – should be reserved for workshops. I’m glad to see an influential modern contra caller speaking out on this. Tony Parkes Billerica, Mass. www.hands4.com New book! Square Dance Calling: An Old Art for a New Century (available now) *From:* Michael Fuerst via Contra Callers < contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net&gt; *Sent:* Thursday, September 14, 2023 4:11 AM *To:* Helle Hill &lt;hellehill(a)yahoo.com&gt; *Cc:* Shared Weight Contra Callers &lt;contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net&gt; *Subject:* [Callers] Re: New Terminology Question Jeff's suggestion of "facing star" works perfectly, and merits becoming the standard term used for discussions about and written descriptions of dances. However, *such occasionally used figures must always be explained during walk-throughs*, so the caller can designate, for the duration of the dance, any appropriate name. (I think I have used "funny" or "silly" star in the past.) The point being that *dancers should need to understand the names of a dozen or so basic figures* (such as F&B, allemande, promenade, star, chain, right and left, circle, shoulders round, hey, and maybe several more) and that callers should need only basic figures to teach any dance. On Wed, Sep 13, 2023 at 8:58 PM Helle Hill via Contra Callers < contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net&gt; wrote: With all the changes to the "old" terminology, I am wondering what a "Gypsy Star" is now called. Thank you. Helle Hill _______________________________________________ Contra Callers mailing list -- contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net To unsubscribe send an email to contracallers-leave(a)lists.sharedweight.net _______________________________________________ Contra Callers mailing list -- contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net To unsubscribe send an email to contracallers-leave(a)lists.sharedweight.net _______________________________________________ Contra Callers mailing list -- contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net To unsubscribe send an email to contracallers-leave(a)lists.sharedweight.net

Hi, As you likely know, an older term for do-si-do is "back to back", and "dos a dos" is just French for "back to back"... so how about "side to side"? regards, ajr, dancing in and near Toronto, Canada _______________________________________________ Contra Callers mailing list -- contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net To unsubscribe send an email to contracallers-leave(a)lists.sharedweight.net

Regarding the term "Mad Robin", it can potentially lead to some conflict with the gender-free "larks" and "robins", so I'd personally lean towards using a new name, though I'm not strong in that belief. I can definitely imagine new dancers hearing the term and thinking that it refers to something that only the robins do. There was discussion back in 2019 in the comments of Jeff Kaufman's blog [1] about this, when the term "robin" was being suggested about this. Some there suggested that the term "Mad Robin" could be replaced with "sashay" or "full sashay" from MWSD. Apparently "full sashay" was used until the 1950s, meaning the same motion as a Mad Robin, but is not used today, although "half sashay" still is. I can't vouch for the accuracy of that discussion though, since I haven't danced MWSD, and I certainly wasn't dancing in the 1950s. Gabrielle Taylor She/Her Massachusetts [1]: https://www.jefftk.com/p/larks-robins _______________________________________________ Contra Callers mailing list -- contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net To unsubscribe send an email to contracallers-leave(a)lists.sharedweight.net

On Sep 17, 2023, at 4:51 PM, Julian Blechner via Contra Callers &lt;contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net&gt; wrote: So, I had this worry, at first. Back when Hampshire College was experimenting with various alternatives to Arm Bands / Bare Arms, we had a spreadsheet with all sorts of qualities to get an overview on how various terms compared, even if not a firm science. One of these was "does it sound like existing dance terms", which is why things like "ports/starboards" was ruled out. (At a house party that year, I danced to someone trying that, and it was immediately confusing.) When Larks/Robins was evaluated, the assumption was that Robins would be confused with Mad Robin, so Ravens was attempted instead. When some folks were looking for alter alternatives to Ravens, a few callers were trying out Robins, again. I recall Lisa Greenleaf had done so at a Pinewoods week, probably summer 2019? That Fall, at the Downtown Amherst Contra, we had been using Larks/Ravens and were considering going over. So, as an experiment, I volunteered to try at a gig at the dance I had calling that was coming up. I called 3 Mad Robin dances that night. The first was to teach it, maybe 4th dance of the evening, and I was sure it had no moves with a "Robins" prompt. The second was early in the second half, and I specifically chose one which ought to have caused trouble - had like a Robins Chain to Mad Robin to Robins Allemande or something like that. The third was a no walk through with a Mad Robin. We had zero issues with any of them. We've been dancing with the terms Larks / Robins, since, with various callers calling Mad Robins, maybe every 2nd or 3rd dance. We've had zero issues reported, and we're a dance that specifically asks on the mic for dancers to give us feedback. What I think matters is that dancer brains are cueing from The "Mad" in Mad Robin. So I can say with a high amount of confidence that Mad Robin and Larks/Robins works perfectly well. Even if I still think Ravens are a cooler bird and a better term. ;) In dance, Julian Blechner He/Him Western Mass On Sun, Sep 17, 2023, 12:51 PM Gabrielle Taylor via Contra Callers &lt;contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net <mailto:contracallers@lists.sharedweight.net>> wrote: Regarding the term "Mad Robin", it can potentially lead to some conflict with the gender-free "larks" and "robins", so I'd personally lean towards using a new name, though I'm not strong in that belief. I can definitely imagine new dancers hearing the term and thinking that it refers to something that only the robins do. There was discussion back in 2019 in the comments of Jeff Kaufman's blog [1] about this, when the term "robin" was being suggested about this. Some there suggested that the term "Mad Robin" could be replaced with "sashay" or "full sashay" from MWSD. Apparently "full sashay" was used until the 1950s, meaning the same motion as a Mad Robin, but is not used today, although "half sashay" still is. I can't vouch for the accuracy of that discussion though, since I haven't danced MWSD, and I certainly wasn't dancing in the 1950s. Gabrielle Taylor She/Her Massachusetts [1]: https://www.jefftk.com/p/larks-robins <https://www.jefftk.com/p/larks-robins> _______________________________________________ Contra Callers mailing list -- contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net <mailto:contracallers@lists.sharedweight.net> To unsubscribe send an email to contracallers-leave(a)lists.sharedweight.net <mailto:contracallers-leave@lists.sharedweight.net> _______________________________________________ Contra Callers mailing list -- contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net To unsubscribe send an email to contracallers-leave(a)lists.sharedweight.net

I don’t understand the need for renaming dance moves like Mad Robin, Petronella, California Twirl… to something that describes the move. We all learned these moves with non-descriptive names, and that was never really an issue. Are callers now hearing from beginning dancers that the names are confusing, or are we creating an issue when there really isn’t one? In English, everything has names. Yes, we have descriptive names like “automobiles," but we refer to them as “cars." That doesn’t appear to be confusing to people. We COULD call a ball a “spherical object,” but “ball” is much simpler. Do we need to rename a chain to “pull by the right and courtesy turn,” or hey to “weave around a bunch of people in an organized fashion?” There are many moves in contradancing with non-descriptive names - or names that ARE descriptive but only to a select few, i.e. “allemande” meaning "by the hand." I think we need to trust that people have a goodly amount of intelligence, and as long as we are teaching the moves properly, people will attach the name with the movement. That being said, I tend to call “petronella” as “spin to the right,” so maybe I’m a bit hypocritical! -- Jeffrey Spero Culver City, CA _______________________________________________ Contra Callers mailing list -- contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net To unsubscribe send an email to contracallers-leave(a)lists.sharedweight.net

Bravo, Michael! (I’ve bolded, below, the point on which I want to agree wholeheartedly.) I’ve believed this for years, and had no way of knowing what percentage of active contra callers agreed. I dare to hope that, as Michael is known for writing and advocating difficult sequences, his opinion will carry added weight. Over the decades, I’ve seen the number of contra “basics” increase dramatically – from about 12 in the 1960s, when many groups got started, to at least 36 today. I’ve worried that the modern contra world has been going down the same path as modern “western” squares did. There’s always a gap between what a first-timer can grasp in one night and what a dancer needs to know to be comfortable at a dance series. But if “basics” are continually added, the gap gets ever wider, until a lesson or a series of lessons is needed. Western squares started with 6 lessons in the late 1940s; currently the Plus program (the prevailing club level in most parts of the US) contains 97 “basics” and (coincidentally) is recommended to be taught in 97 hours, or about 50 lessons. (Most clubs insist that their callers take less time, which results in new dancers not learning the calls adequately.) We contra and trad square callers are nowhere near the excesses of MWSD. But even 36 “basics” are too many for an activity that supposedly anyone can join in without lessons. Some sequences – maybe even some moves – should be reserved for workshops. I’m glad to see an influential modern contra caller speaking out on this. Tony Parkes Billerica, Mass. www.hands4.com New book! Square Dance Calling: An Old Art for a New Century (available now) *From:* Michael Fuerst via Contra Callers < contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net&gt; *Sent:* Thursday, September 14, 2023 4:11 AM *To:* Helle Hill &lt;hellehill(a)yahoo.com&gt; *Cc:* Shared Weight Contra Callers &lt;contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net&gt; *Subject:* [Callers] Re: New Terminology Question Jeff's suggestion of "facing star" works perfectly, and merits becoming the standard term used for discussions about and written descriptions of dances. However, *such occasionally used figures must always be explained during walk-throughs*, so the caller can designate, for the duration of the dance, any appropriate name. (I think I have used "funny" or "silly" star in the past.) The point being that *dancers should need to understand the names of a dozen or so basic figures* (such as F&B, allemande, promenade, star, chain, right and left, circle, shoulders round, hey, and maybe several more) and that callers should need only basic figures to teach any dance. On Wed, Sep 13, 2023 at 8:58 PM Helle Hill via Contra Callers < contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net&gt; wrote: With all the changes to the "old" terminology, I am wondering what a "Gypsy Star" is now called. Thank you. Helle Hill _______________________________________________ Contra Callers mailing list -- contracallers(a)lists.sharedweight.net To unsubscribe send an email to contracallers-leave(a)lists.sharedweight.net