Learning French Dance Rhythms

[Gary Chapin]

The subtleties of French dance rhythms can be tricky. Chris Ryall made a collection of video field recordings of different dance types at Embraud last year. I've begun posting these:

 

http://accordeonaire.blogspot.com/2014/04/french-dance-field-recordings-part-1.html

 

Thanks

Gary

[Tradewinds Ted]

Thanks for that link. These are very interesting!

 

My musical journey has been crabbing sideways through song and dance and playing various instruments in various genres. I agree with the idea that seeing the dancing greatly informs the playing of the tunes set for the various dances.

Edited April 22, 2014 by Tradewinds Ted

[Gary Chapin]

I agree. If your wondering if you got it right, ask the dancers.

[Steve Mansfield]

When I was first starting out playing for dancing, someone pointed out that it's called playing #for# dancing. It's not something that happens to be going on in the same room that you're playing a concert, it's the whole reason you are there playing.

 

Says it all really, and whenever I'm playing for dancing I hope I keep that thought in mind.