Keep Music Live

I believe that wherever possible, a live band should be the first choice to provide the music for a ceilidh dance. Live music adds to the excitement and enjoyment of a ceilidh. Some callers will use recorded music, but this is mainly the reserve of dance clubs and small groups of experienced dancers. The music most used for ceilidh dancing is, or is based on, traditional English, Irish and Scottish, Jigs, Reels, Marches, Polkas, Rants and Hornpipes with the odd Schottische or Waltz. Welsh and American tunes are also used. Some dances have their own tune, as in 'La Russe' a Square Set dance. 'The Blaydon Races' is a well-known song, and is also a Grand Circle dance. There is a Longways dance called 'The Winster Gallop' which has its own tune, a reel of the same name. There are many more, but most can be danced to other tunes, or medley of tunes. Sometimes a band may change (halfway through the dance) not only the tune, but also the time signature. Say from a reel to a jig. This can give the dance a real lift! It may also wrong foot some more experienced dancers, especially if they are stepping. But it does add to the fun! There are hundreds of bands to choose from, ranging from the purist or very traditional, to the rock orientated. All play the traditional tunes. The size of bands varies from just two musicians, to six, or more. Some have their own permanent caller. Others like to use a variety of callers, and some have a regular caller who is not a member of the band.