Raising that Bar!

A couple months ago I suggested the Hatchling callers challenge themselves to improve their weaknesses. A few have done that

Billy called a square (quite successfully)
David greatly increased his presence on stage
Martha called without a card
Karen called a dance without practicing at a party

I am sure there are others

I hope to see more of this type of improvement. Do not be satisfied calling the same old contra type dances you have been doing for almost 2 years now. You are all beyond the point that simply calling a larger quantity of dances can be considered real progress.

I discussed with the Childgrove board and a couple hatchling callers what criteria could be used to determine when a caller is ready for a full night.. I suggested that we should expect a caller to be able to call a square or two (not a NE square) before they get a full night to call. Everyone thought that was a bad idea – except those who have already called squares. They all thought it was a very important step and should be use as a criteria. That tells me you need to try this to realize how much it will improve your contra calling.

One ‘reason’ I have heard is that contras are easy to find – but squares are more difficult. I don’t buy that. Saturday night Deborah called 2 very nice squares. They were interesting and had a lot of activity – but were not hard to teach or call (especially if you were to practice both at a calling party). The breaks she called were also very nice – although, if you are afraid of learning an figure and a break – couldn’t any of you call ”Allemande Left – Grand Right & Left?

Both of her squares and one break (the Grand Sashay) could be called to the musical phrasing – for those of you who like to do that. Did any of you ask her for copies of those?

And for those who want a bigger challenge – for all dance types – rather than just focusing on calling to the music’s phrasing – how about adding the rhythm and even the melody. Patter calls on squares helps you do this – but you can throw in patter on contras too. It will feel stupid at first – but will quickly become natural and be part of your style.

As usual – I think any of the local callers will be happy to help you with any of these or other improvements you want to work on.
Mac