Re: [Callers] Giving Weight

I do (mildly) state that it is a lean. However I don't associate bending at the waist with it, myself or publicly in any demonstration of it. I will say the two of us in a swing is a bit like a top, a pull string top or toy, and I show my two hands, wrists near meeting, finger tips up and apart. Those hands are straight. If I see anyone bending I'll kindly get them to try it without that. I also add that we each remain responsible for keeping ourselves upright. Sometimes, with time available, or if I'm feeling playful I'll suggest slowly opening one's grasp a wee bit. "Okay, watch their eyes!" <grin> This is a personal approach I try occasionally, mostly as I'm a bit of goof and like playing around. However if it appears funny (in a safe context) it may cement an idea. [Rigid adults -- Do not try this in your dance community. It's use depends on your own personality. /caution] - I start a intro session much like Kalia does with circles, experienced connection to the music, arms - with springiness, grasp, life, connection to each other. I like the idea of comparing the action again with floppy arms/connection. I may now cover the allemande immediately after any initial circling, if I have them with a partner. That or circling again (large or small circles) just before getting into the allemande. - I see Giving Weight as one of the more problematic terms when used in isolation, or rather with little context. (Another major one is "1s cross over" -- from some unknown/unnamed spot. A relative directive. Ugh. I don't use this.) - Starting that gallop of a buzz step on the right foot, something I very recently picked up from this or the Trad Dance Callers list, really seems to minimise the sideways or backward movement I've seen some do. Cheers, John -- J.D. Erskine Victoria, BC Island Dance - Folk & Country dance info - site & mail list http://members.shaw.ca/island.dance/